Uganda makes history: Bogere downs France at U-17 World Cup

Uganda’s U-17 national football team made history on Tuesday, clinching their first-ever victory at the FIFA U-17 World Cup with a determined 1–0 win over France in Group K action.

The result not only marked a milestone moment for Ugandan football but also secured the team’s progression to the round of 32.

The defining moment came in the 18th minute, when James Bogere seized on a loose ball inside the French penalty area, showing composure and precision to guide it into the back of the net. The goal ignited wild celebrations among the Ugandan players and fans, who knew they were witnessing something special.

France, stung by the early setback, responded with energy and pressed for an equalizer through Pierre Mounguengue and Christ Batola, but their efforts were consistently thwarted by a disciplined Ugandan backline. Goalkeeper Waibi and defenders Nsereko Mukisa and Torach stood tall, keeping the European giants at bay.

The match was a scrappy affair, characterized by interruptions and several yellow cards. Arafat Nkoola, Abubakar Walusimbi, and Hamza Sengooba were booked for Uganda, while Rémi Himbert and Emmanuel Mbemba saw yellow for France. Late in the match, Mbemba’s injury briefly halted play, further disrupting France’s momentum.

Despite dominating possession in stretches, France lacked sharpness in the final third. Their best chance came midway through the second half when Believe Munongo fired a powerful strike from distance, but it sailed over the bar. Uganda nearly doubled their lead moments later as Richard Okello unleashed a long-range effort that was deflected just wide.

As the game entered its final minutes, France threw everything forward in search of a late equalizer. However, Uganda managed the closing stages with maturity beyond their years—keeping the ball, breaking up play, and frustrating their opponents. A late booking for goalscorer Bogere did little to spoil his heroics as the referee’s final whistle confirmed a famous victory.

The 1–0 triumph not only propelled Uganda into the knockout rounds but also announced the East African nation as a rising force in youth football. Their spirited display against one of Europe’s elite underlined a blend of resilience, tactical discipline, and belief that could carry them further in the tournament.

For France, the defeat was a sobering reminder that dominance in possession counts for little without clinical finishing. For Uganda, it was a night that will be remembered for years to come, a symbol of how far the young Cranes have come, and how much further they can still go.