2026 World Cup qualifiers: Uganda squad to face Botswana and Algeria features Byaruhanga and Oyirwoth | OneFootball

Coach Paul Put recalls 26 players, including two major returns, for the final qualifying fixtures

Uganda Cranes

Uganda has unveiled its 26-man squad for the ninth and tenth rounds of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on September 30. Head coach Paul Put has made several changes to his group as the Cranes prepare to take on Botswana on October 9 and Algeria on October 14.

There are two notable comebacks for the Cranes. Bobosi Byaruhanga, the central midfielder from Oakland Roots who missed the September 2025 camp, returns to the national team. Allan Oyirwoth, who plays for the New England Revolution, also rejoins the squad.

On the other hand, five players who were present in September have not been called up this time. Joel Mutakubwa, Elvis Bwomono, Karim Watambala, Patrick Jonah Kakande, and John Paul Dembe have been dropped from the roster for this crucial October double-header.

In Group G, Algeria sits at the top with 19 points. Uganda is second on 15 points, level with Mozambique. These two fixtures will be decisive for Uganda's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.