David GOMBE
Uganda Cranes earned a vital 1-0 win over Botswana to consolidate second place in the group G, thanks to Jude Ssemugabi’s second half goal.
The first period of the contest ended in a goalless stalemate despite Cranes dominance with Rogers Mato forcing a Botswana goalkeeper into a fine save.
Ssemugabi’s close-range finish was enough to seal victory, despite late pressure from the hosts.
Uganda now need just a draw in their final match against already-qualified Algeria to secure a top-two finish and a potential spot among the four best runners-up heading into the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Mozambique’s qualification hopes suffered a huge blow after a 2-1 home defeat to Guinea.
Abdoul Traore’s early header put the visitors ahead before Reinildo restored parity for Mozambique with a powerful finish from Geny Catamo’s cross.
Traore re-established Guinea’s lead in the second half with a fierce strike that slipped through goalkeeper Ernan Siluane’s hands.
Despite the win, Guinea’s campaign came to an end as they were mathematically eliminated, along with Botswana.
Algeria booked their slot in North America’s World Cup with a 3-0 win over Somalia. With 22 points, the Desert Warrior join Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia in the expanded showpiece.
Uganda is second with 18 points, Mozambique third on 15 points ehile Guinea is distant fourth on 14 points.
