FIFA U17 World Cup: Walusimbi fires Uganda past Senegal to reach Round of 16

FIFA U17 World Cup (Round of 32)
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Senegal 0 Uganda 1

Doha, Qatar: Uganda’s U17 national team, the Cubs, marched into the Round of 16 at the FIFA U17 World Cup after edging Senegal 1–0 in a tense knockout-decider at Aspire Zone Pitch 7 on Saturday afternoon.

Uganda’s No.8 starlet, Abubaker Walusimbi, delivered the moment of magic in the 15th minute, rifling a low shot into the bottom-left corner after a well-worked move involving Brian Ijara and captain Hamuza Ssengooba.

The goal sent the vibrant Ugandan supporters into wild celebration as the Cubs took control of the contest.

Fresh from a historic win over France in their final group match, Coach Brian Ssenyondo maintained an unchanged starting XI, sticking with the trusted frontline of Arafat Nkoola, Richard Okello, and James Bogere, a decision that paid off early.

From the moment Uganda took the lead, Senegal launched wave after wave of attacks, but goalkeeper Edrisah Waibi turned into a wall, pulling off breathtaking saves that kept the Cubs ahead. His heroic shot-stopping earned him the Man of the Match award and cemented his status as Uganda’s standout performer of the night.

Uganda suffered a setback in the second half when captain Ssengooba was forced off with a head injury after a heavy aerial collision.

Senegal came close to equalising late in the game when Bacary fell inside the box, prompting the referee to initially award a penalty. However, after review, the decision was overturned. Moments later, the Young Lions of Teranga had a goal ruled out for offside, adding to their frustration.

The Cubs held their nerve through six tense additional minutes to seal one of Uganda’s greatest moments on the global stage. The victory confirms Uganda’s place in the U17 World Cup Round of 16, continuing a dream run for the young East African side.