Uganda’s world cup dream came to end following a 2-1 defeat to Algeria in the final match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers. Steven Mukwala gave the Cranes an early lead but two late penalties by Mohamed Amoura turned the game in the Desert Foxes’ favour but how did the Cranes players rate on the day.
Jamal Salim Magoola 7.0
He kept the Cranes in the game with some good saves. Had little to do with Mohamed Amoura penalty and was punished for his collision with Gouiri. Stretchered off with injury.
Tobby Sibbick 5.5
A torrid evening against Amoura and co. in arguably his biggest test in Cranes colours. Nevertheless, not a bad show.
Jordan Obita 6.0
Battled with Gouiri throughout the game and like Sibbick, got his biggest test in national team colours. Stayed on top of Gouiri often times and quickly snuffed out of danger.
Elio Capradossi 5.0
Looked panicky at the start as he often appeared to miscommunicate with his goalkeeper but was typically solid and made quick decisions.
Aziz Kayondo 7.0
He kept out Riyad Mahrez for much of the game often forcing him back before he was replaced. Another high-profile display for Uganda’s most consistent player at the moment.
Khalid Aucho 6.0
The skipper played his heart out often breaking play and put his body on the line for a couple of shots.
Kenneth Semakula 6.5
Had very good positional sense against top level opponents and his ability to break play and telegraph a pass to Mukwala sparked arguably Cranes’ best move.
Allan Okello 5.0
In and out of the game for most times and physically bullied. Despite so, had a few sniffs at goal and registered a shot on target.
Rogers Mato 4.5
Helped a lot especially with tracking back opponents but not as sharp in attack. Had a shot blocked in the second half.
Steven Mukwala 6.0
Finally got a deserved world cup qualifiers goal with a timed run early in the game. He worked hard and could be spotted all over the pitch.
Jude Ssemugabi 5.0
Guilty for missing a decent opportunity in the first half to extend Cranes lead. Worked hard as usual.
Substitutes
Denis Omedi 4.0
Lucky to survive a red card late in the game for an off the ball incident. Replaced Ssemugabi midway the second half.
Joseph Mpande 5.0
Replaced Mukwala inside the last ten minutes but starved off supply.
Travis Mutyaba 5.0
A few decent touches and take ons but could do little to influence the game.
Ikpeazu Mubiru 4.0
Could do little after coming on for Mato.
Denis Onyango 5.0
Had nothing to do with the penalty after replacing injured Salim but looked confident.
Salim Jamal was the main man for the loss,,, he sold the game
FUFA should petition FIFA regarding the late penalties. Even if nothing comes out of it, at least they would have lodged a protest and ensured next time, we have VAR and referees with a spine.
It would also send a message to officials not to mess with Ugandan teams.
North African teams bully officials into gifting them calls. Cameroon qualified for 2022 World Cup after beating Algeria with VAR help. The Algerians were relying on their usual antics to pressure the officials, but it didn’t work.