Uganda’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have come to a painful end following a 2-1 defeat to Algeria on Tuesday night at the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium in Boukhalfa, Tizi Ouzou.
The Cranes, who needed a win to keep alive their chances of securing a playoff spot, made a bright start and went ahead through striker Steven Mukwala in the 6th minute. The Asante Kotoko forward capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home past Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane, sending early shockwaves through the home crowd.
Uganda continued to defend resolutely for much of the first half, frustrating the already-qualified Algerians. Midfielder Allan Okello and winger Jude Ssemugabi came close to doubling the lead, but their efforts went narrowly off target.
However, Algeria’s persistence paid off late in the second half. In the 81st minute, a handball inside the box by Mukwala saw the hosts awarded a penalty, which Mohamed Amoura converted to level the score.
In stoppage time, Uganda’s goalkeeper Salim Magoola was penalised for a foul inside the area, leading to another penalty. Amoura stepped up again to complete his brace and secure a dramatic comeback victory for the North Africans.
The result saw Algeria finish top of Group G, further cementing their place at the 2026 World Cup, while Uganda’s tally of 18 points was not enough to qualify among the best second-placed teams.
Head coach Paul Put praised his side’s fighting spirit but admitted disappointment at the late collapse. “We showed great character and discipline, but football can be cruel. The boys gave everything, and we can only build on this for the future,” he said after the match.
Despite the heartbreak, the Cranes leave the campaign with their heads held high, having shown significant improvement throughout the qualifiers. Attention now turns to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, slated for December in Morocco.
