Uganda left it late in the second-half to secure a 1-0 win over Botswana in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday.
The win propelled the Cranes to the third spot in the Group G standings, while the Zebras slipped down to the fifth spot. The two teams will be in action on 10 June as Uganda play host to Algeria and Botswana will be away to Somalia on the same day.
Goitseone Phoko was the busier of the two goalkeepers from the first whistle as the Cranes searched for an early goal. Elvis Bwomono was denied by Phoko from close range 10 minutes into the game with the Zebras’ defence exposed.
Uganda were determined to break the deadlock, but they were wasteful in the final. Fahad Bayo had a chance to hit the back of the net a few minutes before half-time, but his header missed the target and the score was 0-0 at half-time.
The Cranes continued to push for the opening goal after the restart and they got it with 16 minutes left on the clock. Denis Omedi’s low cross from the right was turned home by Muhammad Shaban at close range to make 1-0 to Uganda.
With his side trailing, Botswana coach Didier Gomes Da Rosa introduced Olebogeng Ramotse as the visitors looked to grab a late equalizing goal.
However, Uganda stood firm at the back and ultimately, they emerged as 1-0 winners.
Uganda 1 (Shaban 74′)
Botswana 0
Uganda: Watenga, Muleme, Lwaliwa, Capradossi, Semakula, Ssekiganda, Okello (Mato 46′), Bayo (Omedi 71′), Mutyaba (Sserunjogi 84′), Bwomono (Shaban 66′), Mukwala (Byaruhanga 65′).
Botswana: Phoko, Sikele, Mangolo, Kopelang, Ditlhokwe, Gaolaolwe, Seakanyeng (Ramotse 78′), Mohutsiwa, Orebonye (Boy 84′), Baruti (Molaodi 60′), Sesinyi (Bante 84′).
