2026 World Cup qualifiers: Uganda Cranes target win against Algeria to secure playoff spot

The Uganda Cranes will go all out in search of a vital result when they face Algeria in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G qualifier on Tuesday night at the Stade Hocine Aït Ahmed.

With Algeria already through to the World Cup, Uganda, currently second in the group with 18 points, will be hoping to pull off a strong performance to secure a place in the CAF play-offs.

The Cranes boosted their chances with a narrow 1-0 away win over Botswana a few days ago, a result that reignited their qualification hopes. Head coach Paul Put has made it clear that his players understand the magnitude of the challenge ahead.

“We know what we need in this match, and the players must go out and give their best,” said Put ahead of the trip to Algiers.

Forward Jude Ssemugabi, who scored the winner against Botswana, echoed his coach’s determination, urging fans to rally behind the team.

“We need your support in this remaining game, and we promise you that we are going to work hard to win that game,” he said.

The four best runners-up from across all qualifying groups will advance to the CAF play-offs, which will determine the sole representative for the inter-confederation play-offs.

Elsewhere in the CECAFA Zone, Ethiopia suffered a 3-1 loss to Burkina Faso, while Sierra Leone edged Djibouti 2-1 in Group A action on Sunday. In Group B, South Sudan earned a point following a goalless draw with Togo in Juba.

Tuesday’s fixtures will see Sudan play DR Congo in Group B, Rwanda face South Africa in Group C, and Burundi take on Gabon in Group F.

Kenya will also be in action against Ivory Coast in Abidjan, while Somalia hosts Mozambique in a Group G encounter taking place in Algeria.