World Cup Qualifiers: Probable Lineup for Uganda against Somalia

Uganda's team that started against Guinea|FUFA IMAGE

FOOTBALL World Cup Qualifiers: Probable Lineup for Uganda against Somalia

Allan Damba • 09:26 - 21.11.2023

But how is Put likely to assemble his team given the need for results and the so-called good football?

Seeking redemption, Uganda Cranes will lock horns against Somalia in their second match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Morocco later on Tuesday.

It will be head coach Paul Put Joseph's second match in charge, having seen his side suffer an agonizing 2-1 defeat to Guinea on Friday.

Uganda will need to grind victory against the Somalis, should they stand worthy chances of clinching a spot in the finals for the first time in history.

But how is Put likely to assemble his team given the need for results and the so-called good football?

Goalkeeper: Salim Jamal Magoola

Despite making blunders in the first game, Jamal will likely maintain his spot in goal, given his undoubted prowess and experience. His position is not one you easily change and tickle around with.

Salim Jamal in action for Uganda Cranes /FUFA image

He could still nick the place ahead of Jack Komakech and Ismail Watenga.

Right-back: Kenneth Semakula

Tanzanian midfielder Simon Msuva (Right) drifts away from Uganda Cranes’ Kenneth Semakula during an AFCON 2023 qualifier | COURTESY

While he doesn't offer a whole lot going forward, Semakula is a stalwart defensively. He is also every coach's favourite, given his work ethic. He'll maintain his place ahead of Elvis Bwomono.

Left-back: Aziz Kayondo

While he didn't put up his A-game against Guinea, Kayondo remains the best left-back on the team, and given the opposition, he is likely to thrive going forward.

Aziz Kayondo celebrates scoring a goal|FUFA Image

Central Defence: Bevis Mugabi

His foul (or rather not) led to Guinea's winning goal on Friday. It was harsh on him after a stable game, and he'll thus retain his spot.

Central Defence: Halid Lwaliwa

Halid Lwaliwa attempts to head past the Algeria goalkeeper|FUFA Image

Another Ugandan face at the European stage (North Macedonia's FK Bregalnica Stip), Lwaliwa, was strong against Guinea. Against a weaker Somalia, he will most definitely dominate.

Midfield: Khalid Aucho (c)

An always calm presence in midfield, Aucho will most definitely stay on the team as he provides the much-needed defensive cover and leadership.

Uganda Cranes assistant captain Khalid Aucho during training in Morocco. (FUFA Media).

Midfield: Ramz Kawooya

While he sat out the past game against Guinea, Kawooya will likely make his official debut given Bobosi Byaruhanga's uncertain fitness. It's also reported that Kawooya has impressed the coaching party since his arrival last week.

Left Wing: Yunus Sentamu

Yunus Sentamu is among the locally based players in the Uganda Cranes camp|COURTESY

While he was introduced at the halftime last time out and majorly deployed on the right, Sentamu is likely to start this time round. Uganda will benefit from his attributes more as a drifting left winger.

Right Wing: Rogers Mato

While it's not sure whether he'll start on the left or right, Mato is expected to get his second game on the bounce ahead of Milton Karisa, who was withdrawn at halftime against Guinea.

Forward (10): Travis Mutyaba

Travis Mutyaba in action|FUFA IMAGE

Mutyaba was trusted, and he excelled on the evening against Guinea. He was Uganda's biggest threat, and he should thrive against a low-ranked Somalia.

Forward: Fahad Bayo

Fahad Bayo celebrates scoring against Guinea|FUFA IMAGE

For the World Cup qualifiers especially, Bayo never disappoints, as he almost always shows up. He netted Uganda's consolation against Guinea, making it four goals in five World Cup qualifiers dating back to 2022.