The Uganda Cubs have made history by advancing to the knockout stages of the U17 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, their first-ever appearance at this level of the competition.
Uganda will be looking to continue their fairytale run when the knockout rounds kick off, with their Round of 32 opponent now confirmed as Senegal.
The draw was conducted immediately after the conclusion of the group stages on Tuesday evening.
To reach this stage, Uganda finished third in Group K with four points, the same tally as their group rivals.
Although they missed out on automatic qualification via the top two spots, the Cubs advanced as one of the best eight third-placed teams, ranking fourth in that category, behind North Korea, Egypt, and Paraguay (who had earlier beaten Uganda in a pre-tournament friendly).
A crucial win over former champions France proved decisive, keeping Brian Ssenyondo’s side in contention and fueling their confidence ahead of the knockout phase.
However, the next challenge is a tough one.
Their opponents, Senegal, have enjoyed an impressive tournament so far. finishing top of Group C with seven points from a possible nine.
All eyes will now turn to Qatar on Saturday, November 15, when the Cubs take on the Lions Cubs of Teranga in a highly anticipated clash for a place in the Round of 16.
The winner between Uganda and Senegal will go on to face the victor of the Germany vs Burkina Faso encounter.
