Allan Okello’s stunning free-kick was the difference as Uganda edged Guinea 1-0 in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The victory revived Uganda’s campaign, and Okello emphasized the team’s determination to keep their qualification hopes alive.
“We fought so hard today; we wanted to win,” Okello said after the match. “At least we wanted to win so that we keep our hopes of qualifying for the World Cup alive.”
The midfielder acknowledged the significance of the result, admitting that a loss would have made the journey much harder.
The synergy between Okello and teammate Travis Mutyaba was evident on the field.
Okello praised the young midfielder, stating, “It was a lovely experience playing with Travis Mutyaba. He is a wonderful player who loves to play the ball just like me, so it was really nice to play with a fellow player who loves to play.”
This partnership added a dynamic edge to Uganda’s midfield, contributing significantly to their success in the match.
With four matches left, Uganda remains in contention but must continue winning to stand a chance.
The Cranes will next host Mozambique and Somalia in September, and Okello is already looking ahead.
“Hopefully, we shall win our next games that we shall play in September at home,” he stated.
Okello also credited head coach Paul Put for motivating the team, saying, “The coach told us that we need to do our best and give enough. He believed that we didn’t give enough last time away from home; we made some mistakes. Now he told us that we shouldn’t make any mistakes.”
With nine points in Group G, Uganda is six points behind leaders Algeria, who defeated Mozambique 5-1.
The battle for qualification remains tough, but according to Okello, he and his teammates are ready to fight until the end.
