Mozambique Triumphs Over Uganda, Ascends to Group C Summit in World Cup Qualifiers

Mozambique defeated Uganda 3-1, claiming the top position in Group C with 12 points. Pepo scored twice, while Ratifo added another before halftime. Uganda, now fifth, struggles with two losses in a row and a red card setback during the match.
Mozambique clinched a significant 3-1 victory against Uganda in the 2026 World Cup qualifier held at the Cairo International Stadium on March 20, propelling them to the top of Group C, three points ahead of Algeria. The match saw all four goals scored in the first half, with Mozambique’s triumph marking their third consecutive win in the qualifiers, while Uganda remains at the bottom of the group after two successive losses.
Mozambique started strong, with Pepo netting the opening goal in the third minute, showcasing a powerful shot past Uganda’s goalkeeper Ismail Watenga. Uganda’s Muhammad Shaban quickly equalized in the seventh minute with a well-placed strike following a pass from Allan Okello, momentarily leveling the match. However, Pepo restored Mozambique’s lead just nine minutes later with another precise finish.
The situation worsened for Uganda when Denis Omedi received a red card for a foul on Geny Catamo, receiving two yellow cards in quick succession. This disadvantage allowed Mozambique’s Stanley Ratifo to extend the lead with a goal deep into stoppage time of the first half. In the second half, Mozambique missed opportunities to increase their lead, including a chance from Gildo Lourenco and a shot from Jude Ssemugabi that struck the crossbar. Despite both teams making several substitutions late in the game, the score remained unchanged, solidifying Mozambique’s position at the top of the table with 12 points from five matches.
The notable victory of Mozambique over Uganda not only secures their lead in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers but also emphasizes their current form as they seek to maintain momentum moving forward. Pepo’s impressive performance with two goals and Ratifo’s contribution underscore the team’s strength. Conversely, Uganda’s struggles continue, necessitating a reevaluation of their strategies as they aim to rebound from consecutive defeats.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com