Kampala, Uganda: England-born striker Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru is finally in Uganda Cranes colors, and the big question among fans and pundits is whether the 30-year-old could be the power forward the team has long been waiting for.
Born in Harrow, London, to a Nigerian father and Ugandan mother, Ikpeazu brings physicality, experience, and a proven goal-scoring record, qualities that have made him stand out in both the English and Scottish leagues.
After years of missed chances due to injuries and COVID-19 disruptions, he looks set for his Cranes debut in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Somalia at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
“Playing for your national team is a privilege. This is my country. This is where I’m from. I am relishing it,” Ikpeazu said, expressing joy at finally making his long-awaited debut.
Currently leading the line for Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone, Ikpeazu arrives in form, fresh from scoring the winner in a league clash against Ross County. His commanding style and physical presence up front are qualities Uganda’s attack has often lacked in big international fixtures.
Having come through Reading’s youth ranks before stints at Watford, Crewe Alexandra, Doncaster Rovers, Port Vale, Blackpool, Cambridge United, and Heart of Midlothian, Ikpeazu has built a career defined by hard work and resilience.
His rare mix of Ugandan, Nigerian, and English heritage gave him multiple national team options, but his decision to represent Uganda comes at a crucial time for the Cranes.
Coach Paul Put, tasked with reviving Uganda’s World Cup qualification hopes, is banking on Ikpeazu’s maturity and strength to transform the team’s frontline.
For many, his debut could answer a question that has lingered for years: Can the Cranes finally have a reliable target man capable of leading the line in Africa’s toughest competitions?
Ikpeazu Fact File
Full name: Karl Anthony Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu
Date of birth: February 28, 1995 (age 30)
Place of birth: Harrow, England
Height: 1.90 m
Position: Striker
Strong foot: Right
Current club: St Johnstone (Scotland)
Uganda are currently fourth in Group G on nine points, six behind leaders Algeria, after six matches as the World Cup qualifiers resume this weekend.
After the double header fixtures against Mozambique and Somalia, the Cranes will wind up their campaign away to Botswana and Algeria next month, with only the top team automatically qualifying for the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
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