The Uganda Cranes arrived back at Entebbe International Airport early Friday morning at 6:00 AM aboard EgyptAir, following their disappointing 3-1 defeat to Mozambique in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Thursday evening.
Despite a spirited effort, the Cranes couldn’t overcome a fast-starting Mozambique, who took control early in the game.
Mozambique surged ahead just four minutes into the match through Pepo, and although Uganda responded quickly with a goal from Muhammad Shaban in the ninth minute, the Cranes were unable to sustain the momentum.
Mozambique regained the lead in the 15th minute through Pepo again, and the match took a further turn for the worse for Uganda when Denis Omedi was sent off in the 36th minute after receiving a second yellow card.
Mozambique took advantage of the extra man, with Tanley Ratifo adding a third goal just before halftime, making it 3-1.
The second half saw Uganda pushing hard to find a way back into the game, with Seemugabi coming closest when his shot hit the crossbar in the 60th minute.
However, Mozambique managed the game well, keeping possession and seeing out the victory without any further threat from the Cranes.
Now back on home soil, Uganda’s immediate focus is on their next qualifier against Guinea, scheduled for 25th March 2025.
The team faces an uphill battle in the World Cup race, but the Cranes are determined to bounce back and put their Mozambique defeat behind them.
Coaches and players will begin preparations immediately, knowing that the match against Guinea will be critical to their qualification hopes.
