FIFA U-17 World Cup: Canada 2–1 Uganda Uganda’s Historic Debut Ends in Heartbreak After Late Canadian Comeback

Uganda’s long-awaited debut at the FIFA U-17 World Cup ended in heartbreak as the young Cubs suffered a 2–1 defeat to Canada in a dramatic Group K opener played on Wednesday. Despite leading for most of the game, two late goals from the North Americans snatched victory from the Ugandans, who were seconds away from marking their first-ever appearance at a FIFA tournament with a memorable result.

The East African nation made history by stepping onto the world stage for the first time in any FIFA age-category competition, and their performance—particularly in the first half—showed promise and determination.

Bogere Makes History With Uganda’s First-Ever FIFA World Cup Goal

Uganda took a deserved lead in the 25th minute when star forward James Bogere etched his name into the record books by scoring Uganda’s first goal at a FIFA tournament. The pacey attacker latched onto a through ball before calmly slotting past the Canadian goalkeeper to send the Ugandan bench and fans into wild celebrations.

From that moment, the Cubs grew in confidence, displaying impressive composure and organization for a side new to this level. Midfielders Travis Wabwire and Brian Kasule dictated play, while defenders Ivan Mugume and Moses Katumba worked tirelessly to keep the Canadian forwards at bay.

Canada’s Late Rally Breaks Ugandan Hearts

After a disciplined first-half display, Uganda’s young stars appeared on course for a famous result. But fatigue and inexperience began to show in the closing stages.

Canada, who had dominated possession in the second half without much penetration, finally found their breakthrough in the 88th minute. Substitute Elijah Roche rose highest to meet a corner kick, powering a header past Ugandan goalkeeper Brian Odongo to level the match at 1–1.

That late equalizer proved costly for Uganda, whose concentration slipped further in stoppage time. In the dying seconds, a reckless challenge inside the box handed Marius Aiyenero the opportunity to seal the comeback from the penalty spot. The Canadian substitute made no mistake, sending Odongo the wrong way to complete a stunning turnaround.

A Lesson in Experience for the Debutants

Despite the defeat, Uganda earned praise for their spirited display and tactical discipline for most of the game.

Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo will likely take positives from the team’s organization and attacking spark, particularly in the first half.

“It’s painful to lose like this, but I’m proud of my boys,” Ssenyondo said after the match. “We showed the world that Uganda can compete at this level. We will learn and come back stronger in the next games.”

What’s Next for the Cubs

Uganda now turns their attention to Chile, whom they face on Saturday in their second Group K fixture. The result will be crucial to their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages, as their final match will be against European powerhouse France next Tuesday.

While the late collapse will sting, Uganda’s debut at the global stage has already captured the imagination of fans back home. The Cubs may have fallen short on the scoreboard, but their brave display in their maiden World Cup appearance marked a new dawn for Ugandan football.

Full-Time: Canada 2–1

Uganda Scorers: Uganda: James Bogere (25’)

Canada: Elijah Roche (88’), Marius Aiyenero (90+5’, pen)

Next Match: Uganda vs Chile — Saturday, November 8, 2025