The Uganda U17 national team, the Cubs, were celebrated in a grand welcome reception at the Sheraton Hotel on Tuesday morning following their historic qualification for the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
The event, attended by football dignitaries, club and academy leaders, and government officials, marked a momentous occasion for Ugandan football.
FUFA President Hon. Moses Magogo led the tributes, expressing gratitude to the Government of Uganda, under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Minister of Education and Sports, First Lady Janet Museveni, for their continued investment in football development.
He emphasized that Uganda’s rise on the international stage was a result of deliberate efforts to improve infrastructure and promote youth football.
Addressing the team, Magogo commended the Cubs’ coach and players for their remarkable achievement.
“The coach and your entire team, this is your moment to enjoy but also for Ugandans,” he said.
He also extended his appreciation to parents and schools for their support in allowing the young players to be part of the national team, despite the academic calendar.
“We’re talking about players under the age of 17, still under parental care, and we appreciate that their guardians allowed them to represent their country. The schools also gave these children the opportunity to express their talent—thank you.”
Magogo further recognized the role of academies and clubs in nurturing young talent, emphasizing that the players’ development started years ago, often from as young as 10 or 11.
Their journey to this historic moment was a product of dedicated coaching, structured programs, and an unwavering commitment to youth football.
The Cubs’ qualification to the FIFA U17 World Cup marks the first time a Ugandan football team will compete on the global stage.
