In the ninth round of World Cup qualifying, Botswana will host Uganda. The match is set for Thursday, October 9, at 18:00 CET. Here’s a preview and betting insight for this game.
Botswana vs Uganda: Match Preview
Botswana has only a slim chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, needing a series of favorable outcomes. They currently hold nine points after eight matches and must win their remaining two games. Additionally, they need every other team to lose for even a glimmer of hope. This makes their World Cup dream unlikely.
On the other hand, Uganda is in a strong position. With 15 points after eight matches, they sit second in the group, four points behind the leaders. Uganda will face Algeria in the final qualifying round, and for that game to be significant, Somalia would need to earn points against Algeria—something that seems unlikely but still possible. When it comes to the second-placed teams, Uganda is just one point away from the spot, and a win against Botswana could elevate them into the top four among the runners-up.
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- Botswana has lost their last two matches.
- Uganda has won their last two and lost only one of their previous six games.
- Botswana has not kept a clean sheet in four consecutive matches.
- Uganda won the last meeting between the teams.
- Uganda has never lost or drawn against Botswana, winning all three encounters.
Probable Line-ups
- Botswana: Foko, Kopelang, Johnson, Velafi, Gaolaolwe, Baruti, Modingwane, Mohutsiwa, Orebone, Sikanieng, Sesinyi
- Uganda: Salim, Obita, Capradossi, Sibbick, Kayondo, Semakula, Aucho, Mato, Mukwala, Okello, Ssemugabi
Prediction
Uganda enters this match with significant motivation, while Botswana’s hopes are nearly extinguished. Uganda has historically outperformed Botswana. While the match may not be straightforward, I predict the visitors will secure all three points.