2026 WCQ: Uganda face Botswana as hopes remain alive

Uganda will travel to Francistown to face Botswana on Thursday in a must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Obert Itani Chilume Stadium, with kick-off set for 17:00 GMT.

While both nations approach the encounter with contrasting ambitions, the stakes remain high — particularly for Uganda, who are still clinging to their World Cup dream.

For Botswana, the campaign has already reached its conclusion. With just nine points from eight matches, the Zebras are mathematically out of contention for qualification.

Their performances have shown flashes of promise, but inconsistency has cost them dearly.

Although the dream of a first-ever World Cup appearance is over, coach Didier Gomes da Rosa will expect his players to finish the group stage with pride and professionalism, using the final fixtures to build momentum for future competitions.

Uganda, on the other hand, enter the tie with genuine hope.

The Cranes sit second in their group on 15 points, four behind the leaders, and know that victory in Francistown is essential to keeping their qualification hopes alive.

A win would not only strengthen their grip on second place but also improve their standing in the race for one of the best runners-up spots across the African zone — a route that could yet take them to the 2026 finals in North America.

Head coach Paul Put has emphasized the importance of focus and efficiency ahead of the clash, urging his players to maintain composure against a Botswana side with nothing to lose.

Uganda’s recent form has been solid, with a disciplined defense and a growing confidence in attack giving them the edge as they enter the final stretch of qualifying.

Botswana, meanwhile, will look to make the most of home advantage.

The Zebras have proven difficult to beat in Francistown, and their resilience could pose problems for Uganda if the visitors fail to convert their chances.

With only two rounds remaining, the equation is simple for the Cranes: win or risk losing ground in the race for a historic World Cup berth. The encounter in Francistown promises to be a tense and tactical affair — one side fighting for pride, the other fighting to keep the dream alive.