Doha, Qatar: The Uganda U17 Boys’ National Football Team (The Cubs) have made history by advancing to the Round of 32 at the FIFA U17 World Cup after a thrilling 1-0 victory over France in their final group match on Tuesday.
The match, played at Aspire Zone Pitch 3 in Al Rayyan, saw Uganda put up a spirited performance against the European giants, with prolific young forward James Bogere netting the decisive goal in the 18th minute, with a calm finish from Hamuza Ssengooba’s lay-up inside the box.
The young cranes held firm for the remaining minutes with a resolute defence, which left the French side frustrated.
The East African side came in the match needing nothing short of a win to keep their World Cup dream alive, and Head coach Brian Ssenyondo made one change from the team that drew against Chile, introducing Arafat Nkoola in place of Innocent Asiimwe.
The tactical adjustment paid off as the Cubs displayed early intensity and defensive discipline to hold on to their slender lead.
The result sees the Cubs finish third in Group K on four points, level with France and Canada, who finished first and second respectively, while Chile also ended on four points but dropped to fourth due to goal difference.
Under tournament rules, the top eight of the twelve third-placed teams progress to the knockout stage, joining the group leaders and runners-up to complete the Round of 32 lineup.
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