Uganda’s football story is about to reach an extraordinary new chapter. The nation’s U17 men’s team , affectionately known as the Cubs , will make their first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup when the U17 global finals kick off in Qatar next week.
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo has announced his final 21-man squad, a blend of local academy graduates and rising schoolboy talents, ready to represent the Pearl of Africa on the world stage.
A Moment Years in the Making
It’s a landmark moment for Ugandan football. No national team , at any level , has ever featured at a FIFA World Cup. For Ssenyondo, this isn’t just about participation; it’s about proving that Ugandan football belongs among the best.
“This is a proud moment for our country,” Ssenyondo told reporters. “The boys have trained with discipline and passion, and we’re heading to Qatar to compete, not just to show up.”
Preparation and Progress
The Cubs began their World Cup preparations in Kampala, holding test matches against domestic sides including KCCA FC and Amus College before flying to Dubai for a ten-day training camp.
In Dubai, Uganda tested themselves against international opposition — drawing with Venezuela and Panama before a narrow defeat to Paraguay. The experience, according to Ssenyondo, “gave the players a glimpse of the pace and physicality they’ll face in Qatar.”
Group K: The Global Challenge
Uganda have been drawn in Group K alongside Canada, Chile, and France, a group that blends established pedigree with emerging football nations. The Cubs will open their campaign on 5 November 2025 against Canada at the Al Bayt Stadium.
While France enter as group favourites, Uganda’s spirited displays in recent months suggest they could spring a few surprises.
Uganda U17 Final Squad
Goalkeepers:
Adrian Mukwanga (Vipers SC Junior Team), Edrisah Waibi (Buddo SS), Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC Junior Team)
Defenders:
Jovan Nsereko Mukasa (NEC FC Junior Team), Hamza Sengooba (Masaka Sunshine FC), Stephen Oyirwoth (KCCA FC Soccer Academy), Elvis Torach (Masaka Sunshine FC), Abdul Lukenge Ntege (Maroons FC Junior Team)
Midfielders:
Brain Jjara (KCCA FC), Derick Ssozi (Fort Portal Taxi Operators), Abubakali Walusimbi (Vipers SC), Isma Magala Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC), John Asiimwe (Express FC), Nuwagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC), Brian John Owino (Express FC Junior Team)
Forwards:
James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine FC), Richard Okello (BUL FC), Simon Wanyama (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Shakur Magogo (Namilyango College), Arafat Nkoola (Vipers SC Junior Team), Enock Bagenda (KCCA FC Soccer Academy)
Head Coach: Brian Ssenyondo
Eyes on the Future
For Uganda, qualification alone has already inspired a generation. Yet the belief within the camp is that this journey is only the beginning.
From dusty pitches in Masaka and Fort Portal to the dazzling stadiums of Qatar, these young players embody a new era for East African football.
As Ssenyondo put it:
“They’re young, fearless, and hungry. The world is about to see what Ugandan football can do.”
