2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Tuesday at 7pm, Namboole
Uganda v Guinea
The Uganda Cranes are set to host Guinea in a pivotal FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification Group G match at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Both teams are eager to secure maximum points to bolster their qualification prospects.
Current Standings and Recent Performances
Uganda currently holds six points in the group, trailing Guinea, who have seven. In their previous outings, the Cranes suffered a 3-1 defeat to Mozambique, while Guinea was held to a goalless draw by Somalia. The reverse fixture in November 2023 saw Guinea edge Uganda 2-1 in Morocco.
Historical Context
Historically, Uganda has found success against Guinea at Namboole Stadium. Notably, during the 2014 AFCON qualifiers, the Cranes secured a 2-0 victory over Guinea, with Geoffrey Massa netting both goals. Massa, now serving as the team’s manager, will be hoping for a repeat performance.
Team Preparations and Key Messages
Head Coach Paul Put has expressed confidence in the team’s capabilities despite Guinea’s roster of European-based players. He emphasized the importance of focus and collective support, stating that, “Today is important, we still have so many games. Everything is open, and anything can still happen. In football, everything is possible, we just have to stay behind the team.”
Captain Khalid Aucho who is doubtful due to injury, the sole squad member from the 2014 victory over Guinea at Namboole, has called upon fans to rally behind the team. He highlighted the significance of supporting younger players.
“Our young players are the future, they took us to AFCON, and we must continue to uplift and motivate them, even in tough times,” Aucho said.
