Uganda U17 head coach Laryea Kingston says his side is “on the right course” and ready for the challenge ahead after being drawn in Group B of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.
The Cubs will face Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire and DR Congo, with Kingston stressing respect for every opponent while expressing confidence in his team’s progress.
‘It’s been very good so far. The groupings are out and they look very interesting. I know a lot of countries have prepared and were waiting to see which group they would be in. I have so much respect for every country that has qualified to the U-17 AFCON,’ Kingston said.
The head coach pointed to steady improvement in camp, noting the team has grown after a slow start to preparations.
‘Our preparation has been very good so far. We started on a slow note but now, watching the team and the way they play, I think they are on the right course. Every team has one common goal, which is to qualify for the World Cup, and Uganda is no exception,’ he added.
Kingston acknowledged the difficulty of the group but said it provides a clear starting point for planning.
‘We know it is not going to be easy. It will be very tough, but having seen our group, it gives us a starting point for opponent analysis. The boys have been amazing and the effort they have put in over the past few weeks has been encouraging. I am looking forward to the tournament and I believe the technical team and players are ready for Morocco.’
Team captain Mukwanga Adrian echoed the coach’s confidence, citing the team’s extended time in camp and readiness to compete.
‘The boys are ready to put up a good performance. We have been in camp for a long time and the preparations have been good. We are in Group B with Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire and DR Congo, and what I can guarantee is that we are ready to perform,’ Mukwanga said.
He added that qualification for the global tournament remains the clear objective.
‘Our target is to make sure that we qualify and return to the World Cup.’
