Paul Put’s cautious approach is understandable, given the high stakes of World Cup qualifiers in African football. Mozambique and Guinea are strong opponents, and playing away in Africa is always tough. His focus on taking each game as it comes is a smart strategy, ensuring that the team remains focused and adaptable.
With limited preparation time and key defensive absences, Uganda will need to rely on teamwork and tactical discipline.
“You cannot underestimate any African team. In World Cup qualifiers, opportunities are scarce, so we must be well-prepared. Our players understand that these chances are rare in their careers,” noted Put as Cranes prepared to face Mozambique and Guinea away and home on March 20 and 25 respectively.
Despite the short preparation time, Paul Put’s refusal to make excuses shows his confidence in the team’s ability to adapt. Only having two days of training before facing Mozambique is far from ideal, but Uganda will need to rely on tactical discipline, team cohesion, and individual brilliance to overcome this challenge.
With players joining late, squad familiarity and a strong mentality will be key.
Put’s emphasis on performance over calculations is a smart approach. Uganda has a strong chance to capitalize on home advantage against Guinea, Mozambique, and Somalia, but the focus must remain on executing their game plan rather than obsessing over points and standings.
If the Cranes can replicate their solid away form from the AFCON qualifiers, they’ll be in a good position to make a strong push in the World Cup qualifiers.
“I do not like to overthink. We performed well away in the AFCON qualifiers and we should maintain that level. At home, we need to make a difference. The key is to focus on our game rather than stressing over numbers,” Put reasoned.
Paul Put’s emphasis on teamwork and mental strength is key, especially with Uganda missing key defenders like Halid Lwaliwa and Elio Capradossi. His message is clear: Uganda doesn’t have superstar players who can carry the team alone, so success will come from unity, discipline, and a collective effort.
His experience in previous qualifiers also adds weight to his words when a team gets close to the World Cup, the hunger to qualify grows even stronger. Uganda must seize this opportunity with full focus and determination.
Paul Put understands the power of fan support, especially in crucial qualifiers. A passionate home crowd can lift the team’s spirit and intimidate opponents. Ugandans have always shown love for football, and if they turn up in big numbers, Namboole could become a fortress for the Cranes.
With three home games coming up, the team will need that extra push from the fans.
