Cubs sharpen focus ahead of daunting U-17 AFCON test
“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.”
The U-17 national football team registered a 6-0 victory over City Parents High School at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru on Saturday. (Courtesy Photo)
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Uganda U-17 team captain Adrian Mukwanga has expressed confidence in the team’s readiness ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
“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,” Mukwanga said.
He acknowledged that the task ahead will be challenging but maintained that the team is prepared.
“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 players have been amazing, and the effort they have put in over the past few weeks has been encouraging. We are looking forward to the tournament, and I believe the technical team and players are ready for Morocco,” he added.
Uganda has been drawn alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and DR Congo in what is expected to be a highly competitive group. The tournament will run from May 13 to June 2.
“The groupings look very interesting. I have so much respect for every country that has qualified to the U-17 AFCON. Our target is to make sure that we qualify and return to the World Cup,” Mukwanga emphasised.
The Cubs boosted their confidence with a 6-0 victory over City Parents High School in a practice match at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru on April 11, 2026.
This marks Uganda’s fourth qualification for the tournament. The Cubs first appeared in 2019 in Tanzania and also qualified for the 2021 edition, which was later cancelled due to COVID-19.
Uganda made history in 2025 when they qualified for their first-ever FIFA U-17 World Cup after defeating The Gambia in the play-offs.
At the World Cup in Qatar, Uganda reached the Round of 16, beating France and Senegal before losing to Burkina Faso on penalties.
Forward James Bogere was one of the standout players, scoring against France and Canada before earning a move to Aarhus Gymnastikforening in Denmark. His performances also earned him a call-up to the senior Uganda Cranes provisional squad.
Uganda qualified for the 2026 AFCON after finishing runners-up in the CECAFA zonal qualifiers, with strong wins over Burundi, Sudan, and Djibouti, before beating Ethiopia 3-0 in the semi-finals.