By Kisitu Mohammad
Coach Brian Ssenyondo is optimistic about the Uganda Cubs’ readiness for the upcoming CAF U17 AFCON CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers, emphasizing the team’s improvement since their initial preparations began.
“The boys are responding well in training. When you look at the time we have been in camp, the players are getting used to the style of play we want to use. The players are in good condition and ready to compete,” Ssenyondo noted.
He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to advance: “Our first target is to make it past the group stages, and I believe we can achieve it.”
With intensified preparations underway, the Cubs are focused on delivering a strong performance in the qualifiers, aiming to secure a spot in the next stage of the tournament.
Uganda has been placed in Group A for the upcoming CAF U17 AFCON CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers, alongside Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Burundi. The competition promises to be a challenging one, as the Cubs face strong regional rivals.
Group B features defending champions Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Kenya.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from December 14th to 28th, with matches hosted at two prominent venues: Hamz Nakivubo Stadium and St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
As the host nation, Uganda will aim to leverage home advantage to secure progression from the group stages and potentially challenge for the title.
In the upcoming Qualifiers, the top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals. The two finalists will automatically earn qualification for the U17 AFCON Final Tournament.
Participating teams are expected to arrive in Uganda by December 9th, ahead of the competition, to undergo mandatory Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) tests. These tests ensure age compliance, a crucial requirement for the tournament.
The qualifiers will provide a platform for young talent to showcase their abilities and vie for a spot on the continental
