The Uganda Cranes have begun training in Botswana ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Zebras scheduled for Thursday in Francistown.
The team arrived in Gaborone on Sunday, October 5, with eight players from the local contingent, including Allan Okello, Rogers Torach, Hilary Mukundane, and Enock Ssebagala from Vipers, KCCA’s Gavin Kizito and Herbert Achayi, SC Villa’s Reagan Mpande, and Jude Ssemugabi from Jamus FC in South Sudan.
Head coach Paul Put and his backroom staff immediately settled the team at Avani Resort Hotel, with training sessions taking place at Lekidi Stadium before the final trip to Francistown for the Independence Day clash.
On Monday, several foreign-based players joined the camp to strengthen preparations. They include captain Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Kenneth Semakula, Nafian Alionzi, Steven Mukwala, and defender Toby Sibbick, whose arrival has boosted confidence within the squad.
Uganda currently sit second in Group G with 15 points, four behind leaders Algeria. A win against Botswana would keep their qualification hopes alive before their final group fixture away to Algeria on October 14 at Hocine Ait Ahmed Stadium.
Sibbick expressed belief in the team’s ability to finish strong, saying the mission remains clear. “We know there are two games left, and we want to win both to put ourselves in the best position. Who knows, we could still top the group, so we have to keep believing,” he said.
Captain Aucho emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and a winning mentality during this crucial phase, urging his teammates to approach both matches with determination.
The Cranes are seeking to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, and victory in Francistown would take them a step closer to making history.
