Uganda Cubs U17 FIFA World Cup Fixtures – Group K
November 5: Uganda 🇺🇬 vs Canada 🇨🇦
November 9: Uganda 🇺🇬 vs Chile 🇨🇱
November 13: Uganda 🇺🇬 vs France 🇫🇷
Doha, Qatar: Uganda’s U17 defender Hamuza Ssengooba has emphasized the importance of mentality and individual preparation as the Uganda Cubs gear up for their historic debut at the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
Ssengooba says maintaining the right mindset and energy, both on and off the pitch, will be crucial for his performance and the team’s success as Uganda enters uncharted territory in world football.
“Personally, I should have the right mentality and come with the right energy on and off the pitch. Starting with my individual game preparations and mindset will help me perform well and help the team get the positive result we want,” said Sengooba.
Uganda, making its maiden appearance at the U17 World Cup, is placed in Group K alongside Canada, Chile, and France.
Building Up to History
Coached by Brian Ssenyondo, the Cubs will kick off their campaign against Canada on Wednesday, November 5, before taking on Chile and France in subsequent matches.
This year’s tournament is the first-ever 48-team FIFA U17 World Cup, reflecting the expansion of global youth football. Uganda earned its qualification through impressive performances in the CECAFA and AFCON U17 qualifiers, where the team displayed tactical maturity and strong teamwork.
Coach Ssenyondo has instilled discipline and confidence in his players, emphasizing focus and mental strength as key factors in competing at the global stage.
Uganda Cubs Leaders and Key Players
Leading the Cubs is Richard Okello, the team captain and striker from Jinja. Born on March 27, 2008, Okello rose through local academies, including Masese and El Cambio SA, before joining BUL FC Junior Team. His leadership and composure were instrumental in Uganda’s qualification campaign.
Up front, James Bogere of Masaka Sunshine FC carries Uganda’s attacking hopes. The 17-year-old, top scorer in the CECAFA qualifiers, netted decisive goals, including two hat-tricks that secured Uganda’s historic World Cup ticket.
Right-back Elvis Torach from Kitgum adds pace and discipline on the flanks, while Isima Magala Mulala from Iganga controls the midfield with vision and composure. Other notable players include Brian Jjara (Tororo), Adrian Mukwanga (Gomba), Steven Oyirwoth (Pakwach), and Enock Bagenda, all of whom impressed in recent friendlies.
Uganda faces a tough test in Group K. Canada arrives in Qatar after a dominant CONCACAF campaign, scoring 26 goals without conceding from open play, led by winger Shola Jimoh.
Chile brings South American flair with Zidane Yanez of New York City FC as their creative spark, while France, UEFA U17 runners-up, enter as group favourites. The French squad features captain Abdoulaye Camara and forward Djylian N’Guessan, both tipped for future senior team roles.
Format and Focus
The 2025 tournament’s new structure will see the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed sides advance to the Round of 32. The final is set for November 27.
The Cubs have been fine-tuning their fitness and tactical systems through camps at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, and the Dubai Youth Challenge Cup.
For Sengooba and his teammates, the goal remains simple: stay disciplined, stay focused, and believe. “We are proud to represent Uganda. Every training, every game is a chance to prove that we belong on the world stage,” Sengooba said.
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