Uganda will begin their 2026 CAF TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on Tuesday evening with renewed belief that this could finally be the year they break past the group stage.
The Cubs open their tournament at 7 PM EAT in Morocco, marking Uganda’s third appearance at the continental competition after previous outings in 2019 and 2025.
Uganda are still searching for their first knockout-stage qualification at the tournament, but expectations around the team have grown following an impressive qualification campaign in the CECAFA zone.
The Cubs reached the CECAFA U-17 qualifiers final in Addis Ababa before narrowly losing 3-2 to Tanzania. Despite the defeat, Uganda secured one of the regional qualification slots after showing consistency throughout the tournament.
Much of the attention will again fall on midfielder Owen Mukisa, who was named the best player at the CECAFA qualifiers. Mukisa is expected to play a key role in driving Uganda’s attack with his creativity and technical quality.
Forward Thomas Ogema also heads into the tournament as one of Uganda’s major threats after scoring four goals during qualification, while midfielder Henry Muhoozi is expected to provide balance and control in the centre of the pitch.
The team is coached by former Ghana international Laryea Kingston, whose arrival has brought tactical discipline and structure to the side. Under Kingston, Uganda have focused on compact defending, quick transitions and improved ball retention in midfield.
Uganda’s continued appearances at youth continental competitions have also been viewed as evidence of growing investment in youth football structures and player development pathways.
With more qualification places available for the FIFA U-17 World Cup through this year’s tournament, the Cubs head into Morocco knowing a strong campaign could deliver a historic breakthrough for Ugandan youth football.
CAF described Uganda as one of the potential “dark horses” of the competition, pointing to the team’s recent CECAFA performances and emerging young talents ahead of the tournament.
