The Uganda Cranes are set for their third game in the ongoing FIFA World Cup qualifiers, facing Botswana on June 7 at the Mandela National Stadium.
Uganda began their campaign with a 2-1 loss to Guinea on November 17 but bounced back with a 1-0 victory over Somalia four days later, thanks to a crucial goal by Rogers Mato.
As the team prepares for the crucial doubleheader against Botswana and Algeria, Coach Paul Put has voiced concerns over the absence of several key players.
Captain Aucho Khalid is sidelined due to an injury sustained during club duty with Yanga SC. Rogers Mato, despite his match-winning performance, faced travel difficulties and will arrive just hours before the game.
Additionally, Bevis Mugabi and Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru withdrew from the initial squad, and foreign-based players Bobosi Byaruhanga and Carl Mujjaguzi arrived late, complicating preparations.
“It has been difficult to prepare the team, especially as we have had to deal with 16 outfield players for almost the entire training session,” Coach Paul Put noted, emphasizing the challenges faced in assembling a fully prepared squad.
Despite these setbacks, the Cranes are determined to leverage their home advantage.
Defender Isaac Muleme expressed his excitement about playing at the Mandela National Stadium after a four-year hiatus.
“We are thrilled to be playing at home and we call upon the fans to come in large numbers to motivate us,” Muleme said, highlighting the importance of fan support.
The last encounter between Uganda and Botswana saw the Cranes secure a 2-1 victory in Francistown, with Kizito Luwagga playing a crucial role. Currently, Uganda sits in fourth position in Group G with three points.
