Uganda Makes History: U17 National Team Qualifies for FIFA World Cup for the First Time

El Jadida, Morocco — In a historic and emotional moment for Ugandan football, the national U17 team, the Cubs, secured their maiden qualification for a FIFA World Cup tournament after a dramatic 2-1 playoff victory over The Gambia at Stade El Abdi in El Jadida, Morocco.

The breakthrough achievement came during a tense, winner-takes-all playoff clash that determined one of Africa’s final slots for the upcoming 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. Uganda became the first team in the country’s football history—at any age level—to earn a spot at a FIFA World Cup, marking a monumental milestone in the nation’s sporting journey.

A Match for the Ages

Uganda found themselves trailing just seconds into the game when The Gambia’s Ahmed Njundu Kanyi stunned the young Cubs with a goal in the very first minute. Despite the early blow, Uganda’s resilience and tactical discipline began to shine through as they steadily regrouped and mounted a powerful response.

Leading the charge was dynamic forward James Bogere, who turned the tide with a stunning first-half brace. Bogere leveled the score in the 13th minute with a well-taken strike before returning in the 33rd minute to give Uganda a 2-1 lead. His composure in front of goal and relentless energy sparked belief among his teammates and fans alike.

The second half tested Uganda’s defensive mettle, but the young Cubs, under the guidance of head coach Brian Ssenyondo, displayed exceptional organization, maturity, and heart. Holding off waves of Gambian attacks, the team protected their narrow lead with poise and passion until the final whistle.

Road to Glory

This historic playoff fixture was made possible after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) received an additional qualification slot for the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup. As a result, CAF organized a playoff between the two third-placed teams from Groups A and C of the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON): Uganda and The Gambia.

The stakes couldn’t have been higher, with both sides knowing only victory would secure the precious ticket to Qatar. For Uganda, the triumph wasn’t just about qualification—it was a declaration of arrival on the world football scene.

A Triumph of Vision and Youth Development

Uganda’s qualification signals the fruit of years of investment in youth football and grassroots development. The win underscores the efforts of the Uganda Football Association (FUFA), coaching staff, and local academies in nurturing young talent and creating a clear pathway to international success.

Coach Brian Ssenyondo praised his players after the match, stating, “This is not just a win; it is a new beginning for Ugandan football. The boys have made the country proud, and I believe this will open more doors for our young talent.”

Inspiration for a Generation

Beyond the immediate celebrations, the Cubs’ qualification promises to have a lasting impact on the country’s sporting psyche. For the millions of aspiring footballers in Uganda, the dream of playing at the world stage is now more tangible than ever.

The team will now prepare to represent Uganda at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, where they will compete against the world’s elite and further showcase the promise and potential of Ugandan football.

With this victory, the Cubs have not only etched their names into the history books but have also ignited a wave of optimism and national pride. Uganda’s flag will fly at a FIFA World Cup for the first time, thanks to a group of determined, disciplined, and dazzling teenagers who believed in the impossible.

As the countdown to Qatar 2025 begins, one thing is certain: the future of Ugandan football has never looked brighter.