Mozambique surged to the lead in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after securing a dominant 3-1 win against Uganda at the Cairo Stadium on Thursday.
The Mambas dominated the first half and secured their victory with all three points thanks to two goals from Pepo. He also assisted Stanley Ratifo with a crucial score just before halftime.
Muhammad Shaban from Uganda momentarily equalized early in the game, however, the Cranes faced a daunting challenge following Denis Omedi's red card just before halftime.
This outcome pushes Mozambique to 12 points, which is three more than Algeria, who will play against Botswana on Friday and require a victory to stay competitive within the group.
Meanwhile, Uganda stays in third position alongside Botswana and Guinea, each team having accumulated six points.
Pepo excels as Mozambique takes command
Mozambique quickly took control of the match, finding themselves ahead within four minutes thanks to Pepo. He exploited a momentary lapse in defense to push the ball into the net.
Nevertheless, Uganda reacted quickly, as Shaban leveled the score in the seventh minute following a precisely placed shot within the penalty area.
Nevertheless, the Mambas kept controlling the pace of the game and took the lead again by the 17th minute.
An error by the goalkeeper from Uganda gave Pepo the chance to capitalize on a misplaced ball and score his second goal of the match, thereby reinforcing Mozambique's control over the game.
Uganda’s situation deteriorated further when Omedi was shown two yellow cards within just five minutes (34', 39'), leaving his side with only ten players on the field.
Mozambique took advantage of the situation, and during first-half injury time, Pepo became the assist maker, helping Ratifo score and making the halftime score 3-1.
In the second half, a deadlock emerges as Mozambique secures a win.
Even though they had more players, Mozambique failed to increase their lead following halftime. Uganda deserves praise for strengthening their defense and successfully containing the Mambas.
Nevertheless, with a two-goal lead, Mozambique had secured their win and taken the top spot in Group G.
Ahead of their match against Botswana, Algeria is under increased pressure because failing to secure at least three points would put Mozambique alone atop the group before the critical Day 6 encounter.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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