Uganda Cranes head coach Joseph Paul Put has accepted responsibility for the team’s 2-1 loss to Algeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Namboole Stadium on Monday.
Despite Travis Mutyaba’s stunning first-half strike, Algeria’s experienced side secured victory with two second-half goals from Houssem Aouar and Said Benrahma.
In the post-match press conference, Put expressed mixed emotions. While disappointed with the loss, he praised his players’ fighting spirit against a more experienced opponent.
“I’m disappointed that we lost, but I am not disappointed with the performance,” Put told journalists. “I congratulate the players for the mentality they showed today. But in football, if you create chances and don’t score, it becomes very difficult because you’re playing an opponent with good quality, one of the best teams in Africa. Giving away two stupid goals at crucial moments made it very hard.”
He emphasized that the team is still in a learning phase, noting the youth and inexperience of his squad. “It’s a learning process. Our squad is very young, so we have to grow in maturity and experience. We need players who can make a statement on the field, but I think we are on the right path.”
The match also saw a controversial moment when Uganda’s Mato Rogers appeared to be brought down inside the box, but the penalty appeal was turned down by the center referee from Benin. Put acknowledged the missed opportunity but viewed it as part of the learning curve.
“I think we didn’t deserve the loss, and if everything was correct, we could have had a penalty. But anyway, everyone can make a mistake. We will learn and analyze these games with our players. We lost the battle but didn’t lose the war.”
Put also applauded the home crowd for their unwavering support, even when the Cranes were trailing. He urged fans and team sponsors to trust in the rebuilding process. “I’m still confident, and we will move forward with everyone. We still have a bright future ahead.”
After four matches, Uganda Cranes remain on six points, the same as Guinea and Botswana. Algeria leads the group with nine points, tied with second-placed Mozambique.
