Uganda Cubs show maturity ahead of historic FIFA U17 World Cup debut
During their stay in Dubai, the team will engage in intensive training sessions and play several international friendlies against top youth sides.
Uganda Cubs show maturity ahead of historic FIFA U17 World Cup debut
By AFP .
Journalists @New Vision
Uganda Cubs head coach Brian Ssenyondo has expressed his satisfaction with the team's progress and growing maturity as they gear up for their maiden appearance at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
“I’m impressed with how the players are adapting and showing maturity, especially in implementing our attacking principles in the final third,” Ssenyondo said. “The improvement from game to game gives us confidence heading into the World Cup.”
The Cubs have been in camp at FUFA Hotel Kisaasi since 7 October 2025. They are scheduled to depart for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday 21 October for a 10-day international training camp, the final phase of preparation before heading to Qatar.
During their stay in Dubai, the team will engage in intensive training sessions and play several international friendlies against top youth sides. These matches will help the technical team evaluate tactical readiness, mental resilience, and overall match fitness.
Before departing, the Cubs wrapped up their domestic camp with a commanding 5–0 win over Amus College School at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba. James Bogere netted a hat-trick, while Abubakali Walusimbi and Kamurungi Nuwagaba each added a goal.
“This was our last friendly game here in Uganda before we switch camp to Dubai,” Ssenyondo noted.
Uganda has been drawn into Group K alongside Canada, Chile, and France. Their opening match is set against Canada on 5 November 2025.
The traveling contingent comprises 38 members — 26 players and 12 officials — led by FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga. The final 21-player squad for the World Cup will be announced at the conclusion of the Dubai camp.
Players
Goalkeepers: Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC), Adrian Mukwanga (Vipers SC), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC), Edris Waibi (Buddo SS).
Defenders: Elvis Torach (Masaka Sunshine FC), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC), Abdul Lukenge Ntege (Maroons FC), Hamuzza Sengooba (Masaka Sunshine FC), Jovan Nsenkero Mukisa (NEC FC), Akiz Job Aguma (Vancouver Whitecaps FC).
Midfielders: Brian Jjara (KCCA FC), Abubakali Walusimbi (Vipers SC), Fred Junior Muhangi (Express FC), Isima Mulala Magala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Marvin Kabiito (Vipers SC), Brian John Owino (Express FC), Thomas Ogemaa (KCCA FC), Nuweagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC), Derick Ssozi (Fort Portal Taxi Operators FC).
Forwards: Shakur Baggio Lucky Magogo (Namilyango College), John Asiimwe (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Richard Okello (BUL FC), Simon Wanyama (Bukedea Comprehensive School), James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine FC), Enock Bagenda (KCCA FC), Arafat Nkoola (Vipers SC).