Man Jose Kayima
Uganda Cranes returned to Mandela National Stadium for the first time in five years with a narrow 1-0 win over Botswana in the Group G of the 2026 World Cup qualifier on Friday night.
Second half substitute Muhammad Shaban netted a late winner for Paul Put’s beleaguered troops.
The Uganda Cranes tactician handed Elio Capradossi his first national team cap.
Capradossi calmly impressed on his home debut as he orchestrated play from defence to attack.
Second half substitutes Bobosi Byaruhanga combined well with Denis Omedi to feed Shaban for Cranes’ winner in the 76th minute.
In the first period, Fahad Bayo Aziz came close but his header went inches wide.
Elvis Bwomono also had two decent opportunities but couldn’t hit the target.
The Cranes smiled to maximum points and move to six points same as Algeria, Guinea, and Mozambique.
Uganda Cranes will next face Algeria on Monday night at Mandela National Stadium.
