The Uganda U17 men’s national team, the Cubs, are set to begin their 2025 TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a crucial clash against tournament hosts Morocco on Sunday at El Bachir Stadium, Mohammedia.
The highly anticipated encounter will test Uganda’s credentials as they aim to secure a strong start in Group A and take a step closer to FIFA U17 World Cup qualification.
Despite falling narrowly in pre-tournament friendlies against Burkina Faso (3-2) and Cameroon (4-3), the Cubs have shown promise in attack, with forward James Bogere leading the charge after scoring three goals in the warm-up matches.
He will be key alongside captain Richard Okello, creative midfielder Isima Magala, and clinical finisher Derrick Ssozi, as Uganda looks to unsettle the hosts.
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo believes the team has gained valuable experience from their preparations and is confident they can compete at the highest level.
“We’ve had a solid buildup, and the boys have learned from their mistakes. Facing the tournament hosts is always tough, but we are ready to fight for a positive result,” he said ahead of the game.
Uganda qualified for the tournament by winning the CECAFA U17 Championship, defeating Tanzania 2-1 in the final at Nakivubo Stadium.
Now, they are eager to make their mark on the continental stage in what will be their third AFCON U17 appearance.
With group fixtures against Tanzania (April 3) and Zambia (April 6) still to come, the Cubs know that a strong result against Morocco will set the tone for their campaign.
With ten spots available for African teams at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, Uganda is determined to prove they belong among the continent’s elite.
