2026 World Cup qualifiers: Uganda face must-win clash with Somalia 

Uganda enter a decisive stage in their bid to reach the 2026 World Cup, knowing only a heavy victory over Somalia will keep their qualification hopes alive.

Algeria, who lead the group with a commanding goal difference, face Guinea in Casablanca on Monday at 17:00 GMT.

At the same time, Uganda will host Somalia, carrying the weight of a six-point deficit and a significantly weaker goal average.

The Cranes, currently on +3 compared with Algeria’s +12, must win emphatically if they are to exert any real pressure on the leaders.

A mountain to climb in goal difference

Uganda revived their campaign with a resounding 4-0 win over Mozambique last Friday, but the challenge now is greater.

While three points against Somalia appear within reach, the margin of victory could prove decisive in the final standings.

Algeria’s prolific attack, spearheaded by Mohamed Amine Amoura, has left them with a far superior goals-for-to-goals-against record.

Vladimir Petkovic’s Algeria side are not without obstacles, however.

Their meeting with Guinea promises to be fiercely contested, and there is potential for the Fennecs to drop points in Morocco.

That possibility is the slim opening Uganda will look to exploit.

Pressure on the Cranes

For Uganda, the equation is simple: anything short of a dominant scoreline could see Algeria pull irretrievably clear.

The Cranes must combine attacking ambition with ruthless finishing if they are to make up ground.

With Somalia offering little resistance so far in the qualifiers, the opportunity exists — but so does the pressure.

The contrast in form between the two sides is stark.

Algeria have been consistent and clinical, while Uganda have been forced to rebuild momentum after earlier stumbles.

Monday’s clash therefore carries extra weight, not just for points, but for the psychological edge of staying in contention.

Destiny still in their hands

Algeria’s squad depth and experience mean they remain favourites to secure the group’s World Cup spot, but Uganda’s destiny is not entirely out of reach.

A convincing win against Somalia would at least keep the race alive and prevent Algeria from tightening their grip on qualification.

As the Cranes step onto the pitch, the stakes could not be clearer: only goals will do.

Anything less, and Algeria may well have one foot — if not both — already at the World Cup.