In a stunning display of resilience and talent, the Uganda U-17 national team—fondly known as the Cubs—etched their names into football history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the very first time. The young stars overturned a 1-0 deficit to defeat Gambia 2-1 in a dramatic play-off clash at the TotalEnergies AFCON U-17 tournament held in Morocco. With this victory, Uganda not only earned a coveted ticket to the 2025 U-17 World Cup in Qatar but also became the first Ugandan national team to qualify for a major FIFA tournament.
The hero of the day was undoubtedly forward James Bogere, whose lethal finishing turned the tide in Uganda’s favor. After Gambia took an early lead, Bogere equalized with a clinical strike, sending waves of belief across the Ugandan bench. Minutes later, he doubled the tally with a composed finish, securing a historic win for the East African nation. The brace not only sealed Uganda’s spot in Qatar but also announced Bogere as a name to watch on the global stage.
Coach Brian Ssenyondo, visibly emotional after the final whistle, praised the team’s character and determination: “These boys have written history. They showed heart, hunger, and humility. This qualification is not just a victory for the team—it’s a triumph for every aspiring footballer in Uganda. We dared to dream, and now we’ve made it.” His strategic substitutions and vocal sideline presence played a pivotal role in Uganda’s ability to hold off Gambia’s late pressure.
The spirited victory sees Uganda join an elite list of African sides heading to the World Cup, including Morocco, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Zambia, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, and South Africa. The final ticket from the continent will be claimed by either Egypt or Angola, who square off later today. Uganda’s landmark qualification sends a strong signal about the country’s rapidly rising football standards at youth level.
Starting XI for the Cubs featured Adrian Mukwanga in goal, with defenders Torach, Owino, Oyirwoth, and skipper Hamuza Ssengooba marshaling the backline. The midfield comprised Nsereko, Kyakuwa, and Magala, while Okello, Ssozi, and the match-winner Bogere led the charge upfront. With the World Cup set for November 3–27 in Qatar, the Cubs will now shift focus to preparations, armed with belief, national pride, and a dream to conquer the world stage.
Photo: Fufa Media
