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Uganda U17 World Cup Qualification: Cubs Make History in Morocco

Uganda U17 World Cup Qualification. As the sun set in El Jadida, it cast a golden glow over Stade El Abdi. This moment was extraordinary for Uganda. A Ugandan team, the U17 Cubs, made history by earning a FIFA World Cup spot.

This achievement wasn’t by the senior Cranes or the women’s teams. It was the U17 Cubs who made it happen. They showed incredible courage and skill.

The Cubs faced a tough challenge against The Gambia in a playoff match. Despite starting off behind, they fought back and won 2–1. This victory was more than just a win—it was Uganda’s first ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

This was a statement of purpose from a developing football country and a time of national pride as much as a football win.

How Uganda Defeated Gambia to Make History

From the first whistle, the match was anything but easy. Gambia’s Ahmed Njundu Kanyi scored in the opening minute, shocking the Ugandan side.

But the Cubs responded with poise and belief. James Bogere, a name Uganda will not soon forget, struck twice—in the 13th and 33rd minutes—turning the tide.

The second half tested the Cubs’ will. Gambia battled hard for an equalizer, but Uganda’s disciplined, brave backline held strong. Under Coach Brian Ssenyondo, the young squad showed maturity beyond their years.

Path to Qatar: Uganda’s Journey Through the Qualifiers

Tenacity, planning, and consistent success paved Uganda’s journey to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

From group stages to the high-pressure playoffs, the Cubs showed their worth. Facing and defeating difficult opponents like Ethiopia and Tanzania, they demonstrated tactical adaptability and great mental strength.

The qualifiers also drew attention to rising stars from all throughout the nation, many of whom were FUFA Juniors League graduates. Long before players reached this worldwide stage, these events helped develop their competitive edge.

From Grassroots to Global: The Vision Behind the Success

This triumph wasn’t built overnight. Systematic investment and development led by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has produced this success.

Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA President, whose leadership has transformed Ugandan football, is at the core of this movement.

Magogo praised the team’s determination during a festive gathering in Kampala and suggested a greater objective. He attributed his constant support of youth sports to President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni.

Particularly in sports like football, where community involvement is essential, this corresponds to Uganda’s larger goal of encouraging talent by means of early-stage support.

The FUFA Technical Master Plan: Laying the Foundation

Much of this success can be traced back to the FUFA Technical Master Plan—a comprehensive strategy that:

Deploys scouts across all districts
Uses web-based systems to track youth talent
Organizes elite competitions like the FUFA U17 Juniors League and the FUFA TV Cup

These platforms have produced players like Travis Mutyaba, Rogers Mato, and Allan Okello—many of whom are now stars for the Uganda Cranes.

The Cubs are now part of this pipeline of excellence, reinforcing the idea that talent identification and structured development lead to results on the global stage.

Spotlight on James Bogere: A Star Emerges

James Bogere didn’t just score goals—he inspired a nation.

His composure in front of goal and ability to rise to the occasion reflect a new generation of talent that benefits from:

Improved training environments
Better coaching
Structured support systems

Bogere’s rise isn’t an accident. It is the product of collaboration between parents, schools, clubs, and academies.

As Magogo stated:

“These are children under 17, still under parental care. Their participation is a collective act of belief.”

In many ways, Bogere symbolizes what’s possible in Uganda’s football future: disciplined, fearless, and driven youth ready to make their mark.

Uganda’s Role Among Africa’s Footballing Nations

By qualifying, Uganda joins a growing list of African U17 football powers including:

Morocco
Zambia
Tunisia
Senegal
Burkina Faso

For Uganda, though, this is a debut—a first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance at any level.

That makes the Cubs’ success even more meaningful. They now carry the hopes of a football-loving nation and serve as inspiration for other East African countries still waiting for their breakout moment.

What This Means for Uganda’s Football Future

This qualification is more than a win—it’s a symbol of transformation.

Uganda is no longer on the sidelines of African football. It’s stepping onto the main stage with belief, structure, and talent.

As the Cubs prepare for Qatar, the ripple effects are already being felt:

Youth academies are seeing increased interest
Grassroots clubs are attracting more sponsors
Parents are enrolling their children in FUFA-recognized programs
Uganda Premier League clubs are watching these players closely for potential promotions

This milestone could be a launchpad for future World Cup appearances at the U20 and senior levels.

Preparing for Qatar 2025: What Lies Ahead

Now that qualification is secured, attention turns to the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar. Preparations will include:

Training camps in international facilities
Friendlies with other qualified teams to gain exposure
Technical support from FIFA and CAF for logistics, travel, and acclimatization

FUFA also hinted at partnerships with international academies to provide training exchanges for the Cubs.

This move could elevate their readiness and offer lifelong career opportunities for top talents.

Uganda U17 vs The Gambia: Lineups That Made History

Uganda XI

Adrian Mukwanga (GK), Hamuza Sengooba (C), Jovan Mukisa, Elvis Torach, Derick Ssozi, James Bogere, Isima Magala, Richard Okello, Steven Oyirwoth, John Owino, Ashraf Kyakuwa

Gambia XI

Sebastian Darboe (GK), Alieu Drammeh (C), Kawsu Sanneh, Abdou Mboob, Yusupha Keita, Pa Omar Sarjo, Ismaila Sonko, Omar Sanyang, Ahmed Kanyi, Bisenty Mendy, Kebra Camara

Final Thoughts

Uganda may have waited generations for this moment. Now that it has arrived, the world is paying attention.

The Uganda U17 World Cup qualification is not just a sporting success—it is a signal that the future of Ugandan football is bright.

The Cubs are not just participants; they are pioneers, history-makers, and symbols of a new dawn.

As they prepare for Qatar 2025, one thing is clear: this is only the beginning.

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Uganda U17 Football Team: AFCON 2025 Journey & Rising Stars

Running from March 30 to April 19, the Uganda U17 football team, affectionately known as the Cubs, sets out on a defining quest at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. For Uganda, this competition is more than a continental showcase; it’s a door to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Under the direction of head coach Brian Ssenyondo, the Cubs mix young energy with tactical maturity, a result of Uganda’s fast-evolving football environment.

Homegrown Talent Meets International Flair

Thirteen squad members emerged from the 2025 FUFA Juniors League, reflecting the country’s growing grassroots promise. Among the standout talents:

Richard Okello (BUL FC JT)—Talismanic captain and clinical finisher.
Brian Jjara (KCCA FC)—A midfield maestro with top-flight league seasoning.

Adding a cross-continental spark is Ethan Oyedele, a technically gifted midfielder from Bradfield College in the UK. His European experience may prove decisive in close encounters.

Full Squad: Uganda U17 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

The Qualification Journey: CECAFA U17 Champions

By beating Tanzania 2-1 in the CECAFA U17 Qualifiers final performed at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, Uganda guaranteed their spot in AFCON 2025. The victory highlighted their tenacity, teamwork, and meticulous game plan—qualities that could enable them to compete against Africa’s best.

Group A Fixtures: High Stakes and High Hopes

Uganda’s Group A matchups are as follows:

March 30—vs Morocco (Lost 5-0)
April 3—vs Tanzania (Won 3-0)
April 6—vs Zambia

The top two teams, along with the best two third-placed finishers, advance to the quarterfinals, keeping World Cup qualification within reach.

Matchday One: Harsh Lessons from Morocco

Falling 5-0 against hosts Morocco at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, Uganda Cubs had a difficult start to their AFCON campaign. Though they lost, the youthful Ugandan team demonstrated tenacity and signs of potential as they acquired important experience on the major stage. Against a clinical Moroccan team, Uganda fell behind early when Ilies Belmokhtar opened the score in the third minute. Aït Cheikh doubled the lead with a bullet header, and a VAR-reviewed penalty saw Real Betis forward Ziyad Baha convert from the spot. Belmokhtar added another before halftime, with Baha sealing the 5-0 scoreline in the 71st minute.

Among the spectators was FUFA President Hon. Moses Magogo Hassim, who witnessed Uganda’s determination despite the odds. The Cubs now turn their attention to the April 3 clash against Tanzania, where a win becomes crucial.

Matchday Two: Uganda Cubs Beat Tanzania to Boost World Cup Hopes

After a stuttering start to their AFCON U17 campaign, the Uganda U17 Men’s National Team—fondly known as the Cubs—rekindled their World Cup ambitions with a commanding 3-0 victory over regional rivals Tanzania at the Bashir Mohammedia Stadium.

Still nursing the wounds of a disheartening loss to tournament hosts Morocco in their opening match, the Cubs entered Thursday’s clash with urgency and purpose. From the opening whistle, they dictated the tempo, with midfielder Isma Magala and captain Richard Okello threatening the Tanzanian goal in the early exchanges.

Tanzania’s hopes began to unravel in the second half when defender Hussein Ally Mbegu received a red card, leaving his side a man down. Uganda seized the advantage decisively.

The breakthrough arrived in the 61st minute—Simon Wanyama, ghosting into the box at just the right moment, latched onto a well-weighted layoff from James Bogere and coolly slotted home.

As the Tanzanian defense wilted under sustained pressure, Okello struck six minutes from time, reacting quickest after Bogere’s initial effort was parried by the goalkeeper. The final blow came deep into stoppage time: a handball in the box by Tanzanian defender Mohammed Makarani gifted Uganda a penalty, which Bogere converted with composed precision.

With their campaign back on track, the Cubs now turn their attention to Sunday’s decisive group stage match against Zambia. A victory there would secure their passage to the FIFA U17 World Cup—a dream very much alive after today’s emphatic performance.

Key Players to Watch

Richard Okello—Captain and reliable goal scorer
Brian Jjara—Midfield orchestrator with top-tier experience
Ethan Oyedele—Visionary passer trained in England
Ashraf Kyakuwa—Box-to-box midfielder with relentless energy

Tactical Insights: Areas for Improvement

To enhance their chances, Uganda must:

Tighten defensive coordination under pressure
Improve midfield transitions and possession retention
Close down wide attacking threats more decisively
Construct attacks with greater patience and clarity

These adjustments are essential ahead of a physical and fast-paced encounter with Zambia.

Youth Development: A Rising Football Nation

The Cubs’ lineup reflects Uganda’s maturing football infrastructure. The future of football in the country seems bright, given local academies and leagues turning rich ground for exceptional potential. Investments in coaching, infrastructure, and scouting are starting to show results.

Looking Ahead: Uganda vs Zambia, April 6

The last group-stage battle with Zambia is crucial no matter the Tanzania outcome. A victory will automatically take Uganda to the World Cup.