Uganda vs Somalia Prediction & Betting Tips (8 September)

Uganda will host Somalia on September 8, 2025, in a pivotal Group G clash of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Cranes, led by Belgian tactician Paul Put, are coming off a strong 4-0 win over Mozambique and sit mid-table with nine points. Their squad blends seasoned internationals like Khalid Aucho and returning legend Denis Onyango with emerging talents such as Allan Okello and John Paul Dembe. Uganda’s home form has been formidable, with four wins in their last five matches at Mandela National Stadium, and they’ll be eager to capitalize on Somalia’s struggles to stay in contention for a playoff spot.

Somalia, meanwhile, remain winless in the qualifiers and sit bottom of the group with just one point from seven matches. Head coach Yusuf Ali Nur has had to navigate a campaign riddled with injuries and limited squad depth. Despite a spirited draw against Guinea earlier in the year, the Ocean Stars have since suffered heavy defeats, including a 3-0 loss to Guinea and a 2-0 setback against Botswana. The team has leaned on diaspora talent like Sak Hassan and Ayub Abdulkadir, with hopes that their energy and exposure to competitive football abroad can inject some resilience into the side.

Uganda’s tactical discipline and attacking depth give them a clear edge, but Somalia’s defensive grit—especially in the first half of recent matches—suggests they won’t go down without a fight. The Cranes are expected to dominate possession and create chances through their midfield trio of Aucho, Semakula, and Mutyaba, while Somalia will likely sit deep and look to counter through Musse and Mohamed Ahmed. The return of Onyango in goal adds leadership and stability to Uganda’s backline, which will be crucial in managing any late pressure from the visitors.

While most pundits lean toward a comfortable Uganda win, the Ocean Stars have shown flashes of resistance that could yield a surprise goal. Given Uganda’s attacking momentum and Somalia’s tendency to concede late, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of the hosts feels both realistic and rewarding for bettors. Uganda’s superior form and home advantage should carry them through, but Somalia’s hunger for a historic result may just make this a more competitive fixture than expected.