The Uganda national football team is experiencing a notable ascent in the FIFA rankings, reflecting consistent improvement and determination.
Recently climbing from 90th to 87th place, the Uganda Cranes are solidifying their presence on the international stage.
Under the guidance of head coach Paul Joseph Put, the Cranes achieved two significant victories in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) doubleheader against neighbouring South Sudan this month.
In the first match held at Mandela National Stadium, defender Bevis Mugabi scored the only goal, leading Uganda to a 1-0 win over the Bright Stars.
The Cranes followed this performance with another victory, securing a 2-1 win at Juba Stadium.
Denis Omedi opened the scoring for Uganda just 15 minutes into the game, but South Sudan equalized through Yohanna Juma in the 21st minute.
Alfred Leku’s own goal in the 66th minute ultimately clinched the win for Uganda.
These victories have propelled the Cranes to the top of Group K, amassing 10 points after four games and bringing them closer to securing a spot at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
They will face South Africa and Congo Brazzaville in November for their remaining qualifiers.
Currently ranked 87th in the world, Uganda holds the 18th position in Africa and remains the top team in the CECAFA region.
Notably, Morocco, Senegal, and Egypt continue to lead the African rankings, occupying the first, second, and third positions, respectively.
With their recent performances, the Uganda Cranes are proving to be serious contenders in African football, and their upward trajectory suggests a promising future for the team.