Uganda Announces Squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

Strategic Insights -

Uganda's head coach, Paul Put, has named a 28-man squad for the team's upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier matches against Mozambique and Somalia. The squad includes several experienced players, such as goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who has come out of retirement after a two-year absence from international football. The team is preparing to face Mozambique on September 5 and Somalia three days later at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. Uganda is currently fourth in Group G with nine points, trailing behind Algeria, Mozambique, and Botswana.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 28-man squad for Uganda's FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier matches against Mozambique and Somalia was announced by head coach Paul Put.
  • Experienced goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who retired from international football in April 2021, has been recalled to the team.
  • Onyango's return to the team is a significant boost ahead of the upcoming matches, with Uganda seeking to improve their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.
  • The team will face Mozambique on September 5 and Somalia three days later at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
  • Uganda's squad includes several players based in countries such as South Africa, Vietnam, and Sweden, highlighting the global reach of the team.
  • Team captain Khalid Aucho, who recently transferred from Tanzania's Young Africans SC to Singida Black Stars FC, has not been called up to the squad.
  • The squad includes a mix of experienced and younger players, with some players returning to the team after a brief absence.

Statistics:

  • Uganda has never qualified for a FIFA World Cup.
  • The team currently sits fourth in Group G with nine points.
  • Algeria leads the group with 15 points, followed by Mozambique and Botswana.
  • Denis Onyango, who retired from international football in April 2021, has been recalled to the team after two years.
  • The team will face Mozambique on September 5 and Somalia three days later.
  • Uganda's squad includes 28 players.

Sources:

  • Xinhua, "Uganda announces squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers", August 27, 2025.