Uganda Cranes Begin Final Preparations Ahead of Crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
By The Urban Gazette Sports Desk
Kampala, Uganda
The Uganda Cranes have intensified preparations as they enter the final phase of training ahead of their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, with head coach and technical staff emphasizing discipline, tactical awareness, and physical conditioning.
Training sessions at the Prisons Grounds and Kadiba Stadium this week focused on match fitness, set-piece execution, and defensive organization. Several locally based players have already reported to camp, while foreign-based professionals are expected to join in the coming days, subject to club clearance.
Football officials say the technical team is cautiously optimistic, citing improved squad depth and increased competition for starting positions. The Cranes are seeking to build momentum after mixed results in previous qualification rounds, with fans hopeful that this campaign could mark a turning point in Uganda’s long-standing World Cup ambitions.
“We are focusing on preparation, not pressure,” a team official said. “The players understand what is at stake.”
Why It Matters:
World Cup qualification remains a national dream for Uganda. Strong performances in these fixtures would not only boost morale but also elevate Uganda’s standing in African football. The campaign also offers younger players an opportunity to establish themselves on the international stage.
What to Watch:
Final squad announcement by the technical team
Fitness updates on key players
Tactical changes ahead of the quali
