With history beckoning, the Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, fondly known as the Cubs—has embarked on their final phase of preparation ahead of their debut at the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2025, set for November 3rd to 27th.
The Cubs departed for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sunday for a high-stakes 10-day residential training camp, a critical period designed to sharpen tactics, build team chemistry, and solidify Uganda’s maiden appearance on football’s biggest youth stage.
This milestone is more than a tournament debut, it marks Uganda’s first-ever participation in the FIFA U17 World Cup, a testament to the nation’s rising pedigree in youth football and a culmination of years of investment and development by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
In Dubai, the Cubs will engage in a series of high-intensity training sessions and competitive international friendlies against elite youth teams. These matches will not only serve as a barometer of readiness but will also offer invaluable international exposure to Uganda’s next generation of football stars.
“We are not just going to participate, we’re going to compete,” said FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga, who is leading the 38-member delegation. “This team carries the hopes of a nation, and we believe they are ready to make Uganda proud.”
The camp will climax with the final selection of the 21-man squad to represent Uganda in Qatar. With 26 players currently in camp, competition is fierce as the technical team closely monitors performance, form, and fitness.
Confidence in the squad is sky-high, especially after a dominant 5-0 victory over Amus College School in a pre-departure practice match held on October 20th at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba. The performance showcased the Cubs’ attacking firepower, tactical discipline, and depth of talent across the pitch.
As the countdown to Qatar continues, excitement is surging back home, with fans and stakeholders rallying behind the team. The Cubs’ journey has already ignited national pride, and now, all eyes are on Dubai as Uganda’s future stars prepare to take on the world.
Courtesy Photo
