Uganda Cranes delivered a statement performance in Kampala, sweeping aside Mozambique 4-0 to leapfrog their rivals into second place in Group G of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Rogers Mato was the star of the night with a clinical brace, Allan Okello added a thunderous long-range strike, and Italian-born defender Elio Capradossi capped the rout with a towering header.
All the damage came in a relentless second half after a cagey opening 45 minutes at a raucous Mandela National Stadium, where close to 35,000 fans witnessed one of Uganda’s most commanding displays in recent memory.
Okello’s 35-yard rocket set the tone straight after the restart, before Mato twice showcased his predatory instincts to give the Cranes breathing space. Capradossi’s late header was the icing on the cake , and perhaps symbolic of Uganda’s new-found balance under Belgian coach Paul Put, who praised his side’s composure and belief.
For Mozambique, who beat Uganda 3-1 in the reverse fixture, this was a brutal reminder of how unforgiving World Cup qualifying can be. They were outmuscled, outfought, and outclassed.
Analysis:
This wasn’t just three points , it was a psychological marker. Uganda now sit level on 12 points with Mozambique but hold the advantage on goal difference. More importantly, the Cranes look like a side growing in confidence and identity, with Mato’s finishing and Okello’s leadership giving them genuine cutting edge.
Next up? A CECAFA derby against Somalia on Monday night. Win that, and Uganda’s World Cup dream edges closer to reality.
Photo: Kamira Asha
