Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has emphasized the significance of the team’s upcoming home fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, noting that Uganda must capitalise on home advantage to strengthen its push for a historic first-ever qualification.
Uganda, currently on six points, will first take on Mozambique on March 20 in Cairo before returning home to host Guinea on March 25 at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
With three crucial home matches against Guinea, Mozambique, and Somalia still to come, Put believes that delivering strong performances in Uganda will be the difference in their qualification campaign.
“I do not like to overthink. We performed well away in the AFCON qualifiers, and we should maintain that level. At home, we need to make a difference. The key is to focus on our game rather than stressing over numbers,” Put said.
However, the biggest hurdle for the Cranes remains their limited preparation time. Several foreign-based players will join the squad just days before the Mozambique clash, a challenge Put acknowledges but refuses to dwell on.
“Unfortunately, we have a short preparation period. Some players will join us on 17th March, and we will start training on 18th March, with only two days before the game. It is challenging, but we will not make excuses. We will do our best to achieve good results,” he noted.
Despite missing key defenders Halid Lwaliwa and Elio Capradossi, Put insists that Uganda’s strength lies in teamwork rather than individual brilliance.
“The entire team is crucial. We do not have irreplaceable top-level players. Uganda’s strength lies in collective effort and mentality.”
With Uganda’s World Cup dream within reach, Put has urged both players and fans to seize the moment, knowing that opportunities to qualify for football’s biggest stage are rare.
“Every game is crucial. You do not get many chances to qualify for a World Cup in your career. I have been close before, and when you are close, you want more. Uganda must push forward and stay focused.”
He also called upon Ugandan fans to rally behind the team, acknowledging the power of their support.
“Our strength comes from mentality and unity. Fans play a significant role in this. Ugandans love football, and their support gives us the energy we need.”
With the squad set to travel to Egypt on March 15, Uganda’s campaign will kick into high gear as they look to collect maximum points and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
