David GOMBE
Uganda Cranes will be aiming for maximum points away to Botswana to boost their 2026 World chances at Obedi Itani Chilume Stadium on Thursday.
Uganda is currently second in Group G with 15 points, four adrift of leaders Algeria who head into the final group games as favourites to top the group.
Mozambique also has 15 points and are below Uganda Cranes due to goal difference.
Uganda can mathematically prevail to the expanded showpiece in case they win both their remaining two group games and Algeria fails to maximize points in their final two rounds.
Botswana on the other hand with nine points have faint hopes of progression and are fifth in Group G standings.
Paul Put will have his hopes in Uganda Cranes joint 2026 World Cup qualifier top scorers Allan Okello and Rogers Mato for inspiration.
Defender Jordan Obita is hopeful the Cranes can secure a place in next year’s World Cup due in USA, Mexico and Canada.
“Our chances for World Cup qualification are high. We are second in the group and if we win both our remaining games, we could potentially take first place. We need to stay positive and focused.”
“Our team is striving to achieve the best we can, and with no fears, we are in a good position. Playing in the World Cup is every player’s dream and I am hopeful we can make it happen.”
Head to Head
Uganda has won the last three meetings with Botswana’s Zebras, scoring five and conceding just once.
In 2016, Uganda overcame Botswana 2-1 during the AFCON 2017 qualifiers with William Kizito Luwaga and Khalid Aucho scoring the two goals.
