ANALYSIS: How Put’s tactical selection outclassed Guirassy’s Guinea at Namboole

Namboole, (UG):- In Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match at Mandela National Stadium, Uganda Cranes’ head coach Paul Joseph Put orchestrated a tactical masterclass to secure a 1-0 victory over Guinea, a win that not only revitalized Uganda’s World Cup qualification hopes but also showcased his strategic acumen.

With a resolute determination to shrug off the humbling 3-1 defeat to Mozambique last week, the Belgian made four changes to the starting XI, two of which were forced changes, while the other two were tactical decisions.

The standout switch was evident in goal as Nafian Alionzi replaced Isima Watenga, delivering a commendable performance, including a crucial save in the final minutes of the match. The latter stood no chance of winning the coach’s trust, especially after his howler displays in Cairo that cost Uganda against Mozambique.

In midfield, Kenneth Ssemakula transitioned from right-back to partner Ronald Ssekiganda in a double pivot role, effectively compensating for the absence of Khalid Aucho (who missed the tie with a knock sustained in training).

The Ssemakula-Ssekiganda pairing provided a solid defensive shield and facilitated smooth transitions from defense to attack, and also partnered well to break the attacking prowess of the visitors.

Upfront, Rogers Mato, returning from suspension, covered in well for Denis Omedi on the flanks, who also sat out the game due to suspension for the red card he got in Cairo. Mato’s pace and energy on the left wing combined well with Aziz Kayondo’s attacking play to give the Cranes an attacking force that kept Guinea’s defence busy all match.

Also, Put’s selection of Travis Mutyaba ahead of Jude Ssemugabi added dynamism to Uganda’s offensive play. Mutyaba’s agility and creativity posed continuous challenges to Guinea’s defense. His combination with Allan Okello, who was granted a free role in the attacking third, allowed the pair to exploit spaces and orchestrate offensive maneuvers inside Guinea’s half.

This tactical freedom culminated in Okello’s decisive 36th-minute free-kick goal, the only winner of the night, which ensured Uganda Cranes take all the maximum points.

At the backline, Cranes’ Captain for the day, Elio Capradossi, marshaled the defense with authority, organization and resilience. Alongside Bevis Mugabi, the defensive unit neutralized Guinea’s attacking threats led by Borussia Dortmund’s gunman Serhou Guirassy, limiting them to just one significant opportunity, which was thwarted by Alionzi’s reflexes.

Group G Standings

Elsewhere in Group G, Botswana’s 2-0 victory over Somalia elevated them to nine points, matching Uganda’s tally but boasting a superior goal difference, hence claiming third sport while Uganda falls to fourth.

While Algeria’s emphatic 5-1 win against Mozambique solidified their position atop the group with 15 points, three ahead of second-placed Mozambique at 12.

Uganda Cranes will be back in the World Cup Qualifier with a home tie against Botswana on September 1st at Namboole.