Bogere’s goal marked Uganda’s first-ever goal in a FIFA competition, a milestone that has ignited national pride and renewed hope in the country’s footballing future.
Doha, Qatar: Masaka Sunshine FC teenage striker James Bogere Wednesday wrote his name into Uganda’s football history books after becoming the first-ever Ugandan to score at a FIFA World Cup tournament.
The 17-year-old forward netted in the 25th minute of Uganda’s opening Group K fixture at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar on November 5, giving the Cubs a dream start in their first-ever appearance at a FIFA tournament.
Bogere’s goal came after a well-timed run behind the Canadian defence, latching onto a clever through ball from midfielder Brian Jjara before calmly slotting past the goalkeeper, a finish that sparked celebrations from Ugandans both in the stands and back home.
“It’s a moment I’ll never forget, scoring for my country at a World Cup,” Bogere said after the match. “We wanted to make history, and I’m proud we’ve done that, even if the result didn’t go our way.”
Late Canada Comeback Breaks Ugandan Hearts
Uganda’s fairytale start was, however, undone in the final minutes. Elijah Roche equalized for Canada in the 88th minute, and Marius Aiyenero converted a stoppage-time penalty, sealing a 2–1 comeback victory for the North Americans.
Despite the heartbreak, the young Ugandans were lauded for their fighting spirit, pace, and fearless attacking football.
The Cubs had earlier seen an Elvis Torach goal disallowed for offside, while a VAR check denied them a penalty when Bogere went down in the box. Bogere also came close again in the 83rd minute, denied only by a last-ditch defensive tackle.
Is James Bogere Uganda’s New Golden Boy?
Born on February 2, 2008, James Bogere has risen rapidly through Uganda’s football ranks. The Masaka Sunshine FC prodigy first drew attention during the CECAFA U-17 qualifiers, where he finished as the top scorer, firing Uganda to qualification for the U-17 AFCON tournament.
He continued his fine form at the AFCON tournament, scoring twice and helping the Cubs reach the continental semi-finals.
Standing out for his pace, strength, and predatory instincts, Bogere has been hailed by coaches as one of Uganda’s brightest young prospects.
“He’s got the eye for goal, the work rate, and the maturity of a senior player,” one of the Cubs’ technical team members said. “Bogere is the kind of player who can lead Uganda’s frontline for years to come.”
Bogere’s goal marked Uganda’s first-ever goal in a FIFA competition, a milestone that has ignited national pride and renewed hope in the country’s footballing future.
Uganda, making their FIFA World Cup debut, sit bottom of Group K after the narrow loss to Canada. They now prepare to face France and Chile in their remaining group matches.
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