The Uganda U17 national football team, the Cubs, returned home to a rousing reception early Tuesday morning following their historic qualification for the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
Touching down at Entebbe International Airport at around 5:00 AM, the Cubs were welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd that included cheerleaders, entertainers Kamodo, Byaruhanga, Uncle Money and their group, who added colour and music to the celebrations.
The reception marked the culmination of a landmark journey in which the Cubs secured Uganda’s first-ever ticket to a FIFA World Cup tournament after a thrilling 2-1 victory over The Gambia in the playoff match at the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Led by head coach Brian Ssenyondo, the team was visibly elated as they made their way through the airport arrivals, proudly donning national colours and holding the Ugandan flag aloft.
Their historic achievement has been widely celebrated by fans, officials, and dignitaries across the country.
Before departing Morocco, the Cubs extended their gratitude to Mia Hotel, where they had been hosted during the final week of the tournament.
In a show of appreciation, team captain Richard Okello presented a signed team jersey to the hotel’s management on behalf of the squad.
The Cubs will now begin preparations for their FIFA U17 World Cup debut later this year in Qatar.
