Uganda Cubs became the first football team from their nation to reach a FIFA World Cup after beating The Gambia 2-1 in Morocco. The young Ugandans fell behind early when Ahmed Njundu Kanyi scored for Gambia just one minute into the match. James Bogere answered back with two goals before halftime, finding the net in minutes 13 and 33 to put Uganda ahead for good. His outstanding performance helped secure the historic victory.
Coach Brian Ssenyondo prepared his team well as they defended strongly against Gambian pressure throughout the second half. This playoff happened because CAF received an extra qualification spot for the 2025 U17 World Cup in Qatar. Both teams finished third in their Africa Cup of Nations groups, setting up this winner-takes-all showdown for the final African qualification spot.
The Cubs had mixed results during group play, losing to Morocco and Zambia but winning against Tanzania. This achievement represents a major breakthrough for Ugandan football across all age levels. The team will head to Qatar with national pride and newfound confidence as it prepares to compete on the global stage against world powers.
Coach Brian Ssenyondo prepared his team well as they defended strongly against Gambian pressure throughout the second half. This playoff happened because CAF received an extra qualification spot for the 2025 U17 World Cup in Qatar. Both teams finished third in their Africa Cup of Nations groups, setting up this winner-takes-all showdown for the final African qualification spot.
The Cubs had mixed results during group play, losing to Morocco and Zambia but winning against Tanzania. This achievement represents a major breakthrough for Ugandan football across all age levels. The team will head to Qatar with national pride and newfound confidence as it prepares to compete on the global stage against world powers.
