David GOMBE
Uganda Cranes humbled Mozambique 4-0 during their Group G contest of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Mandela National Stadium.
The Cranes needed to maximize points to keep within touching distance with leaders Algeria.
It was also a perfect revenge for Paul Joseph Put’s men who lost 3-1 to Mozambique in March this year.
Put handed defender John Obita his Cranes debut while Salim Jamal Magoola returned was named in goal for the first time since 2023
All the four Cranes goals came in the second with Allan Okello, Rogers Mato and Elio Capradossi on the score sheet.
After a wasteful first half, Okello sensationally fired the Cranes into a deserved lead early in the second period sending the home faithfuls into delight.
Moments later, Jude Ssemugabi had a decent chance to double the lead but his effort kissed the bar.
Mato who was wasteful during the game found himself on the score sheet after being fed by Steven Mukwala in the 70th minute.
Mato completed his brace in the 83rd minute to extend Cranes lead.
In the 90th minute, Capradossi headed home the fourth off a Travis Mutyaba corner. It was the defender’s first goal in the national team colours.
Uganda Cranes are now second on 12 points, six adrift of leader Algeria. Mozambique is third with the same number of points as the Cranes.
Meanwhile, Guinea thrashed Somalia 3-0 in the first game played at Namboole. Uganda next host Somalia on Monday.
