Uganda seek to strengthen qualification hopes against Somalia in World Cup qualifiers clash

Uganda face Somalia on Monday, 8 September, in a Group G encounter of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as the Cranes aim to tighten their grip on second place behind group leaders Algeria.

The match, scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT, comes at a critical stage of the qualification campaign. Uganda currently occupy second position in the group with 12 points, while Algeria remain firmly in control at the summit with 18 points from their opening fixtures.

Somalia sit bottom of the standings with just a single point, leaving them with little room to manoeuvre in what has been a difficult campaign.

For Uganda, the contest represents an opportunity to consolidate their position and edge closer to securing a route into the next phase of qualifying.

With only a limited number of games remaining, victories are becoming increasingly vital, and the Cranes will be determined to avoid any slip-ups against a side that has struggled for consistency.

Somalia, despite their modest return so far, approach the fixture with the chance to derail Uganda’s momentum. Though the odds may be stacked against them, they will look to frustrate their opponents and build on the limited progress shown in earlier rounds.

Matches of this nature often carry the potential for surprise, and Uganda will be conscious of the danger of underestimating their visitors.

The Cranes’ standing in the group has been built on a combination of solid organisation and moments of attacking efficiency. Maintaining that balance will be essential if they are to extend their advantage over chasing rivals and continue their pursuit of qualification.

Somalia, on the other hand, will aim to improve their defensive resilience and search for opportunities to counter, hoping to capitalise on any lapses from the hosts.

With Algeria setting a relentless pace at the top, Uganda’s margin for error remains slim. The East Africans know that dropped points could prove costly in the long run, especially with other nations in the group still pushing to climb the table.

Kick-off at 16:00 GMT ensures a wide international audience will be able to follow developments, with attention focused on whether Uganda can reinforce their credentials or if Somalia can spring an upset.

Match Information – Uganda v Somalia

• Date: Monday, 8 September 2025

• Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (Africa, Group G, Round 8)

• Kick-off: 16:00 GMT

The fixture offers Uganda the chance to reaffirm their place as Algeria’s closest challengers, while Somalia enter with the freedom of having little to lose. The outcome will play an important role in shaping the dynamics of Group G as the qualification race moves into its decisive stages.