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CAF
13-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Africa's 10 representatives confirmed for historic U-17 World Cup in Qatar
Published: Sunday, 13 April 2025 Africa's ten representatives for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 have been confirmed, following the conclusion of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) play-offs on Saturday. Egypt and Uganda claimed the final two African slots for the global tournament after crucial wins in the play-off round on Saturday, joining Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zambia as the continent's flagbearers at the world stage. The expanded tournament – the largest in the history of the U-17 World Cup – will feature 48 teams for the first time and will be held from 3 to 27 November 2025 in Qatar. Uganda made history by qualifying for their maiden U-17 World Cup after a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over The Gambia. After conceding in under a minute, goals from James Bogere in the 13th and 33rd minutes turned the tide for the East Africans, who held firm to book a debut appearance on the world stage. Later in the day, hosts Egypt delighted home fans with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Angola. A deflected strike from Abdel Aziz El Zoghby and a second-half effort by Hamza Mohamed Abdel Karim sealed the ticket for the Pharaohs, despite Angola pulling one back late in the game. The other eight African nations had already qualified by progressing to the knockout stages of the U-17 AFCON. Among them are Senegal, defending African champions at youth level, and Côte d'Ivoire, who impressed with a resounding 4-2 win over Mali during the group stage. Tunisia and South Africa also secured their places early after finishing strongly in their respective groups, while traditional powerhouses Morocco and Zambia return to the global stage with high expectations. The U-17 World Cup has been a proving ground for future superstars including Michael Essien and Sammy Kuffuor, Nwankwo Kanu, Seydou Keita and Mahamadou Diarra. Now, Africa's new generation of talent will look to shine on the world stage and possibly follow in their illustrious footsteps. With the continent's ten teams now confirmed, the focus turns to preparations and the final draw, as Africa gears up to challenge for global glory in Doha later this year.
CAF
22-03-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Uganda U17 Profile
Uganda heads into the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations eager to make an impact on their second-ever appearance at the tournament. The Cubs have shown significant progress in youth football over the past decade, and their qualification campaign underlines their ambition to compete at the highest level. With a squad boasting exciting attacking talent and solid leadership , Uganda is aiming to advance beyond the group stage and stake their claim as one of Africa's rising football nations. How They Qualified Uganda secured their place in the 2025 U-17 AFCON by dominating the CECAFA region, winning the U-17 Championship held on home soil. Their attacking prowess was on full display, as they netted 10 goals in three matches before facing Tanzania in the final. Their campaign was highlighted by a 5-0 victory over Kenya and a 4-1 win against Somalia, demonstrating their ability to dismantle defenses with ease. Prolific striker James Bogere was a standout performer, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with seven goals in four matches , including two hat-tricks. Meanwhile, captain Richard Okello provided defensive resilience and leadership, ensuring the Cubs remained disciplined and composed throughout the competition. History in the U-17 AFCON This marks Uganda's second appearance in the U-17 AFCON, having made their debut in 2019 under Ghanaian coach Samuel Kwasi Fabin. In their maiden campaign in Tanzania, Uganda registered one win, one draw, and one loss, finishing third in their group behind Nigeria and Angola. Though they narrowly missed out on progressing further, the experience helped lay the foundation for the nation's youth development. Uganda has since strengthened its youth system, and this tournament presents an opportunity to showcase their progress on the continental stage. Key Players to Watch James Bogere (Forward) – A lethal goal-scorer, Bogere was the top scorer in the CECAFA U-17 Championship, netting seven goals in four matches, including two hat-tricks. His ability to find the net will be crucial for Uganda. Richard Okello (Defender & Captain) – A commanding presence in the backline, Okello is a natural leader who provides defensive stability and motivation to his teammates. Magala Isima Mulala (Midfielder) – Named MVP of the 2024 Uganda Secondary Schools Championship , Mulala is a dynamic midfielder who contributed two goals during the CECAFA tournament. Abubakali Walusimbi (Midfielder) – The best player of the CECAFA U-17 tournament, Walusimbi possesses excellent technical ability and vision , making him a key creative force in Uganda's midfield. Coach & Tactical Approach Head coach Brian Ssenyondo has shaped a squad that plays with cohesion, discipline, and attacking intent. His tactical philosophy emphasizes: Structured attacking play , with a focus on breaking down defenses through quick movement. Fast transitions , ensuring the team can counterattack effectively. Defensive organization , allowing the Cubs to remain compact and difficult to break down. Under Ssenyondo's leadership, Uganda has developed a strong team identity, which could be a key factor in their success at the tournament. Tournament Expectations & Group Analysis Uganda is determined to make history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the first time . However, they face a tough challenge in Group A, where they will compete against: Morocco (Hosts) – A technically gifted side with home support, making them one of the tournament favorites. Tanzania (CECAFA Rivals) – A familiar opponent that will provide a highly competitive East African clash. Zambia – A physically strong and fast-paced team that will test Uganda's defensive discipline. Uganda's success will depend on how well they handle pressure and execute their tactical game plan. If they can build on their strong attacking form and defensive organization , they could emerge as one of the surprise packages of the tournament.
