Uganda’s senior team head coach Paul Put has urged his players to stay grounded as they prepare to face Somalia in their next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The Cranes head into Monday’s encounter on a high after demolishing Mozambique 4-0, a result that lifted them to second place in Group G. Victory over bottom-placed Somalia would further strengthen Uganda’s hopes of reaching their first-ever World Cup.
‘In Africa there is no big or small team’: Aucho warns ahead of Somalia clash
Despite Somalia’s struggles, they have only one point, three goals scored, and fourteen conceded in seven matches, Put insists his side cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.
“We played a good game against Mozambique, but that is in the past,” Put warned. “We have to see Somalia, and we expect no easy game because there are no easy games in Africa. We have to be ready like we did against Mozambique and get a good result.”
🎙️ Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put’s pre-match comments
🔜 Uganda vs Somalia#UGASOM | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/8gbWhuFlxu
— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 8, 2025
The Belgian tactician also used the moment to rally fans, stressing that their presence at Namboole could prove decisive.
“I call upon all Ugandans to come and support us. We need to be 12 vs. 11, and then we enjoy the result after,” he emphasized.
Uganda sits on 12 points, level with Mozambique, while Algeria tops the group with 18 points. Guinea, who stunned Algeria in the reverse fixture in Algiers, are on 10 points and will face the Desert Foxes again in Morocco. A Guinea victory, paired with wins for Uganda and Mozambique, could throw Group G wide open going into the final qualifying rounds.
Somalia, meanwhile, will be looking to restore pride after a 3-0 defeat to Guinea at the same venue on Friday.
A few hours to match day ⏳
Secure your ticket 🎟️ https://t.co/nnfUdJASpE #UGASOM | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/G5qfakxV8u
— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) September 7, 2025
Related article: Put elated with Uganda Cranes’ masterclass against Mozambique
