Uganda Cubs set for historic FIFA World Cup debut

U17 FIFA World Cup Qatar
November 3-27
Group K (Uganda, France, Canada, Chile)
Today, 6:45pm
Canada v Uganda
Saturday, 3:30pm
Uganda v Chile
Tuesday (NOV 11), 3:30pm
Uganda v France

It is a momentous day for Ugandan football as the Uganda Cubs, the national U17 men’s team, make their debut at the FIFA U17 World Cup against Canada this evening at the Aspire Zone Complex in Al Rayyan, Doha, Qatar.

The match marks a significant milestone in the country’s football history, as Uganda becomes the first national team ever to feature at a World Cup final in the 101 years since the establishment of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and 64 years since it became affiliated with FIFA.

Excitement has been building across the country since April, when the Cubs earned qualification after a 2-1 playoff victory over Gambia in Morocco. That victory secured Uganda’s ticket to the global stage and sparked nationwide anticipation for this historic debut.

At exactly 6:45 pm Ugandan time, team captain Richard Okello will lead his side onto the pitch, ending a century-long wait for Ugandans at home and abroad who have long dreamed of seeing their flag at the World Cup.

Unlike their Group K opponents—Canada, Chile, and France—who have all previously featured at this level, Uganda enters uncharted territory. However, the Cubs’ journey has been defined by belief and resilience, qualities that saw them win the CECAFA U17 Zonal Championship in December 2024 after beating Tanzania at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

They went on to finish third in Group A of the U17 AFCON, setting up a playoff against Gambia. Despite the odds, forward James Bogere netted twice to secure Uganda’s place at the World Cup.

Head coach Brian Ssenyondo has a 21-man squad at his disposal and believes his side is ready for the challenge. “The boys are very excited to play this game. It is true this is a big stage for them, but they are not afraid but just determined to make a good start,” he said.

Among the key players to watch in the Cubs sqaud are Bogere of Masaka Sunshine, who scored seven goals during the CECAFA qualifiers and four goals in the AFCON finals.

Isma Magala, also from Masaka Sunshine is a promising attacking midfielder, he can score goals as well as set up teammates to score. The fact that he plays with Bogere at Masaka Sunshine, the two are expected to form an exciting partnership for the Cubs.

Brian Jara is a defensive midfielder from KCCA FC Junior Team. Jara has featured for KCCA senior team and using his UPL experience, he will be a very important player for the Uganda Cubs in this historic tournament. 

Abubakali Walusimbi also an attacking midfielder from Vipers SC JuniorTeam. Walusimbi like Jara has also featured for Vipers senior team and has plenty of experience. He will be a key member of the team.

Lastly is defender Hamuza Ssengooba from Masaka Sunshine, he is a very giant player, has good game reading skills and very good at winning aerial duels. Ssengooba will be the leader in defence as team captain Richard Okello leads from the attack.

“Having the right mindset and energy both on and off the pitch is key. I will give my best to help the team get the result we want,” he said confidently.

Though the Cubs did not win any of their recent friendlies against Venezuela, Panama, and Paraguay held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the matches offered valuable experience ahead of this historic debut. Bogere scored two goals in those three games.