Uganda U17 names 37-man squad for AFCON, targets World Cup spot

Coach Brian Ssenyondo has named a 37-man provisional squad for the Uganda U17 National Team in preparation for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place from March 30 to April 19 in Morocco.

The team will begin residential training at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru on Monday.

The squad reflects a blend of continuity and fresh talent, a strategic move by Ssenyondo. The core group of players already familiar with the coach’s philosophy is complemented by new additions from the FUFA Juniors League and school competitions, bringing energy and competition for starting spots.

Uganda Cubs face a challenging yet exciting Group A, where they will take on hosts Morocco, Tanzania, and Zambia. Morocco will benefit from home advantage, while Tanzania will be eager for revenge after losing to Uganda in the CECAFA Qualifiers final. Zambia, known for their physical and fast-paced style, will also pose a significant threat.

Uganda’s success in the CECAFA qualifiers, particularly their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania, demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure. If they can replicate that resilience and teamwork in Morocco, they stand a strong chance of advancing past the group stage.

The expansion of the FIFA U-17 World Cup to 48 teams presents a golden opportunity for African teams, including Uganda. With 10 CAF slots now available, the Uganda Cubs have a realistic chance to make history by qualifying for their first-ever FIFA U-17 World Cup.

The Squad

Goalkeepers

Lukyamuzi Ashiraf (KCCA FC SA), Waibi Edrisah (Wakiso Giants FC JT), Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT), Kakaire Nicholas (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Aaron Zziwa (Working FC Academy-England)

Defenders

Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC), Oyirwoth Pius (KCCA FC SA), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC SA), Ssengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC), Nsereko Jovan Mukisa (NEC FC JT), Kayiza Raymond Serunyigo (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Buluma Sudiki (Police FC JT), Shaban Ali (Express FC JT), Mukisa Marcus Jonathan (SC Villa JT), Latigo King Sammy (Empire FC)

Midfielders

Jjara Brain (KCCA FC SA), Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT), Isima Magala Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Okello Richard (BUL FC JT), Kabiito Marvin (Vipers SC JT), Owino John Brian (Express FC JT), Kyakuwa Ashirah (Vipers SC JT), Ogema Thomas (KCCA FC SA), Kamurungi Nuweagaba (Kitara FC JT), Ssozi Derrick (Fort Portal Tax Operators FC), Langol Joseph (Poarhinar Soccer Academy), Ssembusi Patrick (Amus College School), Amaku Gnot (Brooke House College-England)

Forwards

Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College School), Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT), Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC), Wanyama Simon (Vipers SC JT), Ntege Abdul Lukenge (Maroons FC JT), Masudi Raphael (KCCA FC SA), Babalanda Tom (BUL FC JT), Mubiru Mahad (Mbale Heroes FC JT), Joel Kigenyi (Bukedea Comprehensive SS)