Uganda Cubs - Photo Courtesy FUFA Media.
The highly anticipated 2024 AFCON U17 Zonal Qualifiers kick off today at the refurbished Nakivubo Stadium with two thrilling encounters on the cards.
Group A action begins at 1 PM with Somalia taking on South Sudan while hosts Uganda Cubs face off against fierce rivals Tanzania in a Group B derby at 4 PM. For the Cubs, the match represents the first crucial step toward their dream of qualifying for the CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations, a pathway to the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Uganda’s head coach Brian Ssenyondo has rallied his team highlighting their readiness and determination to conquer the regional challenge. “We know how heavy the tournament is, but we come ready to face it off with any opponent because the final goal is playing at the U17 World Cup. Tomorrow’s game against Tanzania is our first step into our dream, so we will fight for victory,” Ssenyondo affirmed.
The Cubs have had extensive preparations for the tournament, focusing on building a cohesive squad capable of balancing tactical precision, technical excellence and physical stamina. The final 20-man squad, unveiled ahead of the competition showcases a blend of promising young talent ready to make their mark on the continental stage.
Uganda Cubs Final Squad: Goalkeepers: Adrian Mukwanga, Edrisah Waibi, Lukyamuzi Ashraf.
Defenders: Musaazi Marvin, Sengooba Hamuza, Torach Elvis, Oyirwoth Steven, Oyirwoth Pius, Mubiru Travor.
Midfielders: Kabiito Marvin, Jjara Brain, Walusimbi Abubakali, Magala Isima Mulala, Ogema Thomas.
Forwards: Nkoola Arafat, Bogere James, Richard Okello, Simon Wanyama, Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio, Bagenda Enock.
The rivalry between Uganda and Tanzania adds extra intensity to the 4 PM showdown. Clashes between these two East African footballing giants are often fiercely contested with bragging rights and qualification hopes at stake.
Playing at home, the Cubs will seek to capitalize on home support at Nakivubo Stadium where the crowd’s energy is expected to inspire the young stars. Coach Ssenyondo has emphasized the significance of a strong start, knowing that a win against Tanzania will set a positive tone for the Cubs’ AFCON U17 qualification quest.
With passionate home fans behind them and a well-prepared squad, Uganda will be aiming for nothing less than victory. As the first ball is kicked at 1 PM in the Somalia vs. South Sudan encounter, all eyes will turn to the Cubs’ 4 PM clash against Tanzania.
With stakes high and ambitions even higher, both games promise to deliver action-packed football as East Africa's finest young talents battle for continental glory.
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