Mozambique faces Uganda in a critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 20, 2025. Mozambique has won three matches in the campaign, while Uganda seeks to overcome recent losses. The match will be held at Cairo International Stadium, with Uganda aiming to bounce back and improve their standings in the group.
Mozambique has had a solid performance in the current FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, securing three wins against Somalia (2-1), Botswana (3-2), and Guinea (1-0). They suffered a defeat against Algeria (0-2). Conversely, Uganda achieved victories over Somalia (1-0) and Botswana (1-0), but faced losses against both Guinea (2-1) and Algeria (2-1).
The upcoming match on March 20, 2025, will be hosted at Cairo International Stadium at 4 PM EAT. This match is crucial for Uganda who aims to increase their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. They currently sit in fifth place with 6 points, trailing both Mozambique and Algeria, who are tied at the top of the group.
This encounter marks the first official meeting between Mozambique and Uganda. Both teams are looking to capitalize on their previous match results to gain momentum. A victory for Uganda will equal their points with Mozambique as they prepare for their next match against Guinea.
In terms of team news, Uganda’s center-back Elio Capradossi is available in camp but is unlikely to play due to injury. Halid Lwaliwa also misses out due to injury. Rogers Mato is suspended after receiving two yellow cards, while Bobosi Byaruhanga, who is also suspended, was not selected for this match. Despite missing the recent qualifiers due to injury, Muhammad Shaban is back and available. Tobby Sibbick from Wigan Athletic may make his competitive debut, and Enock Ssebagala has received his first call-up for the senior team.
The Uganda Cranes’ potential lineup includes Ismail Watenga as the goalkeeper. Elvis Bwomono is the favorite for the right-back position, with Kenneth Ssemakula, usually a center-back, potentially converted to this role. Aziz Kayondo is expected to be the left-back. Timothy Awany and Bevis Mugabi are likely center-back choices, with options including Tobby Sibbick and Rogers Torach. Khalid Aucho will serve as captain in midfield, with formations considering Ronald Ssekiganda and possibly Ssemakula. Travis Mutyaba and Allan Okello are in contention for the number 10 role, while Muhammad Shaban may start at center-forward alongside the in-form Steven Mukwala.
The expected starting XI for Uganda includes Watenga (GK), Bwomono, Kayondo, Mugabi, Awany, Aucho (C), Ssekiganda, Mutyaba, Ssemugabi, Mukwala, and Shaban.
In summary, Uganda looks to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Mozambique. With both teams holding competitive records in the current campaign, the match will be pivotal for Uganda to keep pace in the group standings. Notable player absences due to injuries and suspensions may impact the starting lineup, but Uganda remains determined to secure victory as they aim for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Original Source: kawowo.com