Uganda’s U17 Men’s National Football Team, the Cubs, secured a historic place at this year’s FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar after a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Gambia on Saturday at the CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Having failed to progress directly to the quarter finals which guaranteed automatic qualification, Uganda along with three other third-placed teams from the group stage, was handed a second chance through playoffs for the final two World Cup slots. The Cubs, who finished third in Group A, were drawn against Gambia, the third-placed team in Group C.
The game got off to a nightmare start for Uganda, conceding within seconds of kickoff through Ahmed Njudu Kanyi. But the Cubs responded with maturity and determination, leveling matters in the 14th minute thanks to James Bogere’s volley after a pinpoint cross from right back Elvis Torach. The equalizer stood after a lengthy VAR review.
Bogere completed his brace in the 32nd minute, again capitalizing on Torach’s involvement. The defender was fouled in the box, but the referee played advantage, and the ball fell kindly to Bogere who made no mistake.
Richard Okello nearly extended Uganda’s lead just before halftime, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
In the second half, Uganda made enforced changes after Ashraf Kyakuwa limped off with injury, replaced by Thomas Ogema in the 57th minute. At the same time, Simon Wanyama came on for Derrick Ssozi.
Wanyama had two clear chances to put the result beyond doubt—first heading wide at the far post from a Mukisa cross, then firing over the bar after being teed up by Torach.
Despite late pressure from Gambia, the Cubs held firm to preserve their lead and make history. This marks Uganda’s second qualification for a FIFA World Cup at any level—the first being the U20 side in 2021, though that tournament was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Now, the Cubs are set to become the first Ugandan team ever to play at a FIFA global tournament.
Uganda joins Morocco, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Zambia, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, and South Africa as confirmed African representatives at the U17 World Cup. The final spot will be decided between Egypt and Angola.
