By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times
Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho may miss the crucial World Cup qualifier match against Guinea due to an injury. The match is set to take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
During a pre-match interview on Monday at the same venue, Aucho revealed that he was still awaiting a final medical assessment before determining whether he would be fit to play.
“I am waiting for the doctors’ confirmation if I will be able to play tomorrow or not. But still, the boys are available to represent the team perfectly, and they know exactly what to do on the pitch to get a win against Guinea,” Aucho stated.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their captain, Uganda Cranes head coach Joseph Paul Put expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation, saying the team had shown great determination and skill in training ahead of the crucial fixture.
Aucho also called on Ugandan football fans to turn up in large numbers and support their team, emphasizing that home support could play a key role in securing a positive result.
Meanwhile, FUFA Executive Committee member Isa Magoola Kakaira, who also serves as the chairman of the International Match Organizing Committee, advised fans to avoid bringing motorbikes and private vehicles to the stadium unless they have designated parking stickers. He recommended that fans use public transport or park at a distance from the stadium to ease congestion.
Ahead of the match, Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Patrick Onyango issued a stern warning to politicians against making political statements inside the stadium. He emphasized that authorities would not allow banners or any political materials in the venue, saying security personnel would enforce this directive strictly.
The Uganda Cranes head into this match eager to bounce back after a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Mozambique in Cairo last week. Uganda, currently in fifth place in Group G, will be looking for a much-needed three points against Guinea to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Group G is currently led by Algeria with 12 points, followed by Mozambique with 12 points, Guinea with 7 points, Botswana with 6 points, Uganda also with 6 points, and Somalia in sixth place with 1 point. The group winner will automatically qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the second-placed team will have an opportunity to compete in a playoff for a chance at qualification.
The Cranes will be hoping to make home advantage count as they seek to revive their World Cup dreams.
