Historic Journey Begins: Uganda Cubs Arrive in Qatar for FIFA U17 World Cup Debut

DOHA, QATAR — The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, popularly known as The Cubs, have safely arrived in Doha, Qatar, ready to embark on their maiden FIFA U17 World Cup campaign that will run from 3 Nov 2025 – 27 Nov 2025— a landmark moment in Uganda’s football history.

This is Uganda’s first-ever appearance at the global youth football stage, marking a major milestone for the country’s development program and a testament to the growing success of local talent pathways.

The Cubs jetted into Qatar on Saturday morning from Dubai, where they had been camped for nine intensive days. The training camp featured three competitive international friendlies against Venezuela, Panama, and Paraguay’s U17 national sides — all designed to sharpen the boys’ readiness for the world stage.

Walusimbi Confident in Team’s Readiness

Speaking to journalists before the team’s departure from Dubai, assistant captain Walusimbi Abubakali voiced confidence that the build-up phase had adequately prepared the team for what lies ahead.

“This was our last sweat in Dubai; now we head to Qatar. The friendly matches gave us a good test and great experience — we have really learned lessons from them,” Walusimbi said.

He further emphasized that the players have acclimatized to the Middle Eastern weather and are mentally set for the tournament’s pressure.

“The weather here is actually not too different from home, so we’ll not face many challenges with it. We have already switched from friendly game mode to competition mode, and I can promise we’ll do our best to represent the country well,” he added.

Head Coach Ssenyondo Backs His Squad

Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo, while unveiling the final 21-man squad, expressed full confidence in the team’s ability to perform admirably on the global stage.

“We believe this is the best squad to represent us in Qatar,” Ssenyondo affirmed. “We have only added a few new players who weren’t with us during the AFCON, but the core of the team has been maintained.”

The coach hailed the unity, discipline, and resilience within the group, noting that the majority of players have been together since the CECAFA and AFCON U17 campaigns — a foundation he believes gives the Cubs a competitive edge.

Leadership and Team Spirit

Okello Richard will captain the side, assisted by Walusimbi Abubakali, Sengooba Hamuza, and Bogere James — a leadership structure designed to balance experience, composure, and tactical understanding.

The Cubs will be based at Holiday Villa Hotel and Residence – City Center Doha, where they will finalize preparations before opening their FIFA U17 World Cup campaign against Canada on Wednesday, 5th November 2025, with kickoff set for 6:45 pm (local time and EAT).

Final Uganda U17 World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers:

Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT)

Edrisah Waibi (Buddo SS)

Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC JT) 

Defenders:

Mukisa Jovan Nsereko (NEC FC JT)

Sengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC)

Oyirwoth Steven (KCCA FC)

Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC)

Ntege Abdul (Maroons FC JT)

Midfielders:

Jjara Brain (KCCA FC)

Ssozi Derick (Fort Portal Taxi Operators FC)

Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT)

Magala Isima Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC)

Asiimwe John (Bukedea Comprehensive School)

Nuweagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC JT)

Owino John Brian (Express FC JT)

Forwards:

Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC)

Okello Richard (BUL FC JT)

Wanyama Simon (Bukedea Comprehensive School)

Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College)

Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT)

Bagenda Enock (KCCA FC SA)

A Nation Behind the Cubs

The entire Ugandan football fraternity, led by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), has expressed pride and optimism in the young team’s journey. The Cubs’ participation not only showcases Uganda’s growing football pedigree but also reflects the success of grassroots structures, youth academies, and school football programs across the country.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, the Cubs stand on the threshold of history — determined, disciplined, and ready to make Uganda proud on the world stage.

Next Fixture:

Wednesday, 5th November 2025

Doha, Qatar 

Uganda U17 vs  Canada U17 

6:45 pm (local time & EAT)