The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, sometimes known as the Cubs, still has a way to Qatar 2025. After a tough defeat at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage, hope is revived.

With the Confederation of African Football’s expanded World Cup quota, Uganda is now one victory away from creating history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the first time ever.

The Cubs will meet the Gambia U17 squad in a playoff matchup that promises drama, tension, and maybe even atonement on April 12, 2025, in El Jadida, Morocco.

Uganda U17 Men’s National Team: Journey Through the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations

Though Uganda struggled significantly after being assigned to a challenging Group A comprising hosts Morocco, Zambia, and Tanzania, the Cubs’ 2025 AFCON campaign began with high aspirations.

• Uganda 0-2 Morocco: The opening match made clear the level of the host nation. Uganda could not stop Morocco’s attacking strength even with all their attempts.

• Uganda 3-0 Tanzania: A stunning comeback. With a definite win, the Cubs earned a crucial three points by playing with passion and tactical brilliance.

• Uganda 1-2 Zambia: Uganda needed at least a draw to boost their qualification prospects but lost closely.

Group A Standings

Though they finished third, Uganda’s journey wasn’t over. CAF’s decision to allocate ten World Cup spots opened a new door: a playoff for the four best third-placed teams. Fate had gifted Uganda a second chance.

Uganda U17 Men’s National Team vs Gambia: The Crucial Playoff Clash

The last obstacle between Uganda and history is the Gambia U17 Men’s National Team, sometimes known as the Young Scorpions.

Set for Saturday, April 12, 2025, at El Abdi Stadium, the game is a classic underdog story waiting to unfold.

Gambia’s Experience

The world stage is nothing new to the Young Scorpions. They have a psychological edge, having qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2005 and 2009.

Uganda’s Hunger

The COVID-19 pandemic canceled the 2021 edition, ending the Cubs’ hopes of qualifying then. The memory serves as a strong motivator for many of these young players.

Head-to-Head

Historically, Uganda and Gambia have rarely faced each other at youth level, making this clash exciting and unpredictable.

Tactical Preview: How the Uganda U17 Men’s National Team Can Outplay Gambia

Uganda’s Strengths

• Quick transitions

• Organized pressing

• Team cohesion

Uganda’s Weaknesses

• Vulnerability to set pieces

• Occasional lapses in concentration

Gambia’s Strengths

• Physical dominance, especially aerially

• Ability to capitalize on defensive errors

Predicted Starting XI

Uganda U17: Mukwanga, Torach, Oyirwoth, Sengooba, Owino, Kyakuwa, Langol, Magala, Okello, Wanyama, Bogere.

Gambia U17: Jammeh, Danso, Sanneh, Keita, Mboob, Sarjo, Camara, Baba Leigh, Drammeh, Mendy, Njundu Kanyi.

Keys to Victory

• Stay compact defensively

• Exploit Gambia’s slower backline with pace

• Maintain composure under pressure

With history on the line, the Cubs are not just playing for victory — they are playing for national pride.

Beyond the Pitch: What FIFA U-17 World Cup Qualification Means for Uganda

Victory would mark Uganda’s debut at the FIFA U-17 World Cup — a seismic moment in the country’s football history.

It would:

• Boost grassroots football programs

• Inspire a new generation of young athletes

• Increase international exposure for Uganda’s talents

Coach Brian Ssenyondo:
“This is about more than just a game. It’s a legacy we are fighting for — for every young Ugandan who dreams big.”

Full Squad: Uganda U17 Men’s National Team at AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers

• Adrian Mukwanga — Vipers SC Junior Team

• Masabo Muhamad — Lugazi FC Junior Team

• Lukyamazi Ashiraf — KCCA FC Soccer Academy

Defenders

• Jovan Nsereko Mukisa — NEC FC Junior Team

• Hamza Sengooba — Masaka Sunshine FC

• Joseph Langol — Paorhinar Soccer Academy

• Elvis Torach — Masaka Sunshine FC

• Steven Oyirwoth — KCCA FC Soccer Academy

• Travor Mubiru — Vipers SC Junior Team

• Abdul Lukenge Ntege — Maroons FC Junior Team

Midfielders

• Ethan Oyedele — Bradfield College (UK)

• Derick Ssozi — Fort Portal Tax Operators FC

• Thomas Ogema — KCCA FC Soccer Academy

• Isima Mulala Magala — Masaka Sunshine FC

• John Brian Owino — Express FC Junior Team

• Marvin Kabiito — Vipers SC Junior Team

• Ashraf Kyakuwa — Vipers SC Junior Team

• Brian Jjara — KCCA FC

Forwards

• James Bogere — Masaka Sunshine FC

• Richard Okello (Captain) — BUL FC Junior Team

• Simon Wanyama — Bukedea Comprehensive School

• Shakur Baggio Lucky Magogo — Namilyango College School

Final Whistle: Uganda U17 Men’s National Team on the Cusp of History

This isn’t just about qualifying for a tournament — it’s about affirming Uganda’s rise on the continental and global football stage.

The Cubs carry the hopes of a nation, and on Saturday, April 12, they will take the field with belief, hunger, and history within their grasp.