2026 WCQ: Okello’s stunning free-kick lifts Uganda Cranes to crucial win

Uganda Cranes revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on Tuesday in Group G with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Guinea on Tuesday night at Mandela National Stadium. Allan Okello’s sensational free-kick in the 34th minute proved decisive in a crucial Group G encounter played in Kampala.

Determined to bounce back after a 3-1 defeat to Mozambique, head coach Paul Put made four changes to the starting XI. Nafian Alionzi started in goal, while Ronald Ssekiganda, Travis Mutyaba, and Rogers Mato were also drafted in. With Khalid Aucho and Isima Watenga absent, Italian-based defender Elio Capradossi captained the side.

Uganda began the game on the front foot, pressing Guinea early. Mato nearly broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, but goalkeeper Sylla pulled off a fine save. Four minutes later, Mato’s cutback flashed across goal with no one to convert. Muhammad Shaban also came close twice, first from an Okello corner and later from a Kayondo cutback in the 32nd minute.

The breakthrough finally came two minutes later. After Camara fouled Mutyaba just outside the box, Okello stepped up and curled a brilliant free-kick past Sylla, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebrations. Camara received a booking for the foul leading to the goal.

Uganda made defensive reinforcements after the break, with Timothy Awany replacing Elvis Bwomono at halftime. Later, Calvin Kabuye and Jude Ssemugabi were introduced to maintain the Cranes’ defensive solidity.

Guinea pushed for an equalizer late on, but Alionzi stood firm, making a crucial save in the 87th minute to deny the visitors. The Cranes’ backline held strong, ensuring they saw out the game and secured all three points.

This victory, Uganda’s third in the qualifiers and second at home, lifts them to 9 points from 6 matches, while Guinea remains on 7 points.

Group G Table

• The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.