Uganda Cranes secured a vital 1-0 win over Guinea in a tense Group G clash of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Tuesday evening.
After facing criticism for defensive errors in their previous match against Mozambique, the Cranes bounced back with a disciplined and organized performance, keeping their qualification hopes firmly intact.
Uganda started strong, creating multiple chances early on. Their efforts were rewarded in the 36th minute when Allan Okello curled a magnificent free kick into the top left corner, leaving the Guinean goalkeeper stranded.
Although Guinea had periods of possession, they struggled to break down Uganda’s sturdy defense, led by Bevis Mugabi and Elio Capradossi, who kept Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy at bay.
In the second half, Guinea pushed forward, looking for an equalizer. They nearly found it in the 49th minute, but Cranes captain Capradossi made a crucial clearance to deny them.
Goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi, who had a relatively quiet evening, was called into action in the 53rd minute, making a key save to deny Guinea’s free kick.
Uganda responded with an impressive counter-pressing display. Muhammad Shaban was denied by the Guinean keeper in the 54th minute, and just moments later, Okello set up Travis Mityana, but the forward failed to finish the chance.
The Cranes continued to apply pressure, with Aziz Kayondo nearly assisting Okello for a second goal in the 67th minute, but a last-ditch clearance by a Guinean defender kept the scoreline intact.
Guinea’s final push came in the 88th minute when they won a free kick, but Alionzi was again the hero, making a crucial save to preserve the lead.
With this win, Uganda climbs to third place in Group G with nine points, three behind leaders Algeria and Mozambique, both of whom have a game in hand.
Uganda has now beaten Guinea in both their encounters at Namboole, with Geoffrey Massa’s brace in 2014 securing a 2-0 victory.
The Cranes will return to action on September 1, 2025, when they host Mozambique in another crucial match at Namboole.
