Mozambique Move Top of Group G with Impressive 3-1 Win Over Uganda
Mozambique surged to the summit of Group G in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after an impressive 3-1 victory over Uganda at Cairo Stadium on Thursday.
The Mambas produced a commanding first-half performance, with star man Pepo leading the charge by scoring twice and assisting Stanley Ratifo for a crucial third goal just before halftime.
Uganda briefly fought back through Muhammad Shaban, who leveled the score in the seventh minute after Pepo’s early opener. However, the Cranes’ hopes were dashed when Denis Omedi was shown a red card following two quick yellow cards before the break, leaving Uganda to play the entire second half with ten men.
Mozambique now sit comfortably at the top of Group G with 12 points, three ahead of Algeria. The North Africans will play Botswana on Friday and must win to remain in close contention.
Uganda, on the other hand, remain third in the group standings, tied on six points with both Botswana and Guinea.
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Pepo Shines Bright as Mozambique Take Command
Mozambique wasted no time setting the tone, with Pepo striking in just the fourth minute after taking advantage of Uganda’s defensive lapse.
The Cranes responded immediately, as Shaban finished neatly inside the box to bring the score to 1-1 in the seventh minute.
Despite Uganda’s early fightback, Mozambique stayed on the front foot, and by the 17th minute, Pepo doubled his tally after capitalizing on an error by Uganda’s goalkeeper.
The momentum firmly swung Mozambique’s way when Omedi’s dismissal in the 39th minute, following two quick bookings, left Uganda down to ten men. Mozambique capitalized on their numerical advantage, and just before the break, Pepo turned provider, setting up Ratifo for the Mambas’ third goal.
With this decisive win, Mozambique have firmly established themselves as serious contenders in Group G as the race for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies.
Mozambique seized the moment just before halftime, with Pepo capping off his brilliant performance by turning provider for Stanley Ratifo, who calmly slotted home to make it 3-1 going into the break.
Second-Half Stalemate Seals the Win for Mozambique
Despite holding a man advantage, Mozambique couldn’t add to their tally in the second half. Uganda regrouped defensively and showed resilience, preventing the Mambas from further widening the gap.
Still, the damage had already been done. Mozambique’s strong first-half showing proved enough to secure all three points and take a commanding lead at the top of Group G.
Attention now turns to Algeria, who head into their clash with Botswana under pressure. Anything short of victory will see Mozambique remain firmly in control of the group going into the all-important Matchday 6 encounter between the two sides.
