Following their tough 5-0 loss to Morocco in the opening game of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Uganda’s U-17 national team is now fully focused on bouncing back against Tanzania.
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo remains confident that the Cubs can turn their fortunes around as they aim to keep their FIFA U-17 World Cup hopes alive.
Ssenyondo, speaking after the defeat, acknowledged Morocco’s quality but insisted that Uganda is not out of the tournament yet.
“Losing the first match doesn’t mean the end of the road,” he stated. “We knew Morocco would be a tough opponent, but we have two more games to fight for qualification. The focus is now on Tanzania.”
The Cubs will have to regroup quickly ahead of their must-win fixture on Thursday. With only the top two teams in each group and the two best third-placed sides advancing to the next round, Uganda cannot afford another defeat.
Ssenyondo emphasized the team’s determination, noting that his players remain motivated despite the setback.
“This is when champions are made—when they face adversity. The boys know what is at stake, and I believe they will respond positively.”
Uganda will take on a familiar Tanzanian side that also has everything to play for in Group A. A victory would put the Cubs back in contention for a knockout-stage spot, while a loss could leave them on the brink of elimination.
With just two days to prepare, Ssenyondo and his squad will need to make quick tactical adjustments to improve both their defensive organization and attacking efficiency.
