Uganda Cranes boss Paul Joseph Put has thrown midfielders Bobosi Byaruhanga and Allan Oyirwoth back into the mix as his side braces for two pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounters against Botswana and Algeria this October.
The pair were omitted in the previous international break, but their return injects fresh competition into a midfield department already boasting the experience of captain Khalid Aucho alongside Kenneth Ssemakula, Ronald Ssekiganda, and Enock Ssebagala.
Byaruhanga’s adaptability was a key factor in Put’s decision to recall him. “Bobosi has shown that he can play in different positions, defence, defensive midfield, attacking midfield, he is talented and reliable,” the Belgian tactician explained, underlining the 21-year-old’s all-round contribution.
Oyirwoth, who last pulled on the national shirt against Somalia earlier in the campaign, was also handed another chance.
Put suggested that the 19-year-old is beginning to attract attention outside Uganda. “For Oyirwoth, hopefully what we hear is true that some European teams want him. That’s what we want but first, let him prove himself on the national team,” he said.
The stakes are high for the Cranes, who find themselves at a crucial juncture in the qualifiers. Maximum points in the upcoming double-header are seen as non-negotiable if Uganda is to stay firmly in contention for a historic World Cup berth.
With the return of Bobosi and Oyirwoth, the midfield battle looks set to intensify, and Put appears convinced that competition for places will bring out the best in his squad.
