Uganda Cranes skipper Khalid Aucho has cautioned against complacency ahead of Monday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia, insisting that regional rivalries can be unpredictable despite the team’s recent surge in form.
Fresh off a commanding 4-0 win over Mozambique, the Cranes return to the Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, aiming to strengthen their grip on second place in Group G.
Addressing the press on Sunday, Aucho expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness but called on supporters to rally behind the team in even greater numbers than before.
“We recovered well and everyone is in good condition, and we are ready for the game. So we call upon fans to come in big numbers better than the Mozambique game,” Aucho said.
Somalia, already eliminated from contention and anchored at the foot of the table, may appear to be underdogs on paper. However, Aucho was quick to emphasize the unique tension of East African encounters.
“This is an East African affair, it’s a Derby. You never know what comes around when two teams from the same region meet. Everyone wants to win,” he noted.
The midfielder echoed head coach Paul Put’s reminder that no fixture in African football is straightforward, but stressed that home advantage must be maximized.
“Like coach Paul Put has said, in Africa there is no big or small team. The good thing is that we are at home and all we want is three points.”
Uganda currently sits second in Group G with 12 points, trailing leaders Algeria by six. Three fixtures remain for the Cranes to chase a maiden World Cup appearance, with group winners securing direct qualification and runners-up potentially advancing via inter-confederation playoffs.
