Uganda’s World Cup dream remains alive after a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Botswana in Francistown, with captain Denis Onyango applauding his teammates for their resilience and focus.
The decisive moment came in the 54th minute, when forward Jude Ssemugabi rose highest to head home from a corner, sealing Uganda’s sixth win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. The victory pushed the Cranes to 18 points, setting up a potentially decisive final clash against Algeria.
Onyango, making an emotional return to the national team after four years away, said he felt humbled by the faith shown in him by the technical bench and his colleagues.
“First of all, I have to thank the team for allowing me back,” he said. “After four years away, I was given the opportunity to help where I can. Whether I play or not, I remain part of this group. The coaches trust me, and I’m happy to still play active football with Sundowns,” he told the press.
The 39-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper, long regarded as one of Africa’s most consistent goalkeepers, was pivotal in organizing the defence as Uganda absorbed Botswana’s physical and aerial threats. His calm leadership at the back helped the Cranes see out a tense second half.
2026 World Cup: Uganda keep qualification hopes with vital win over Botswana
Reflecting on the result, Onyango emphasized that the team’s determination has kept their qualification hopes alive ahead of the final group game.
“In football, anything can happen. We don’t know how the results in Algeria will go, but we’ve given ourselves a chance,” he noted.
Uganda’s veteran keeper also looked beyond the qualifiers, stressing the importance of maintaining momentum with the Africa Cup of Nations just around the corner:
“We have 18 points now, and if we make the playoffs, it will be great for the team and the country. The most important thing is to keep winning and stay positive, especially with AFCON coming up in two months.”
Uganda Cranes has departed for Algeria this morning for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Group G last match against Algeria.
The game will be played on Tuesday, 14.10.2025, at Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium, Tizi Ouzou City in Algeria.#ALGUGA | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/XqcytQvHeO
— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) October 10, 2025
The Cranes will now shift focus to their final and toughest assignment, a trip to Algiers on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, where they must earn a result to keep their dream of reaching the World Cup alive.
