The Uganda U17 Boys’ National Football Team, famously known as the Cubs, has made history once again after qualifying for the Round of 32 at the ongoing 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
Uganda sealed their place after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over European giants France on Tuesday at the Aspire Zone Pitch 3 in Al Rayyan.
The hero of the day was sharp striker James Bogere, who scored the only goal of the game in the 18th minute after receiving a brilliant assist from Hamuza Ssengooba. Bogere calmly slotted the ball into the net, and the Cubs held firm to protect their lead until the final whistle.
Coach Brian Ssenyondo made just one change from the previous match against Chile, bringing in Arafat Nkoola to replace Innocent Asiimwe.
Uganda came into the match knowing they needed nothing less than a win to advance and they delivered, showing maturity, hunger, and strong defensive discipline to silence France’s continuous attacks.
With this result, Uganda finished third in Group K on four points, the same as France, Canada, and Chile. However, Uganda progressed as one of the best-ranked third-placed teams in the group stage.
The Cubs will now face Switzerland in the Round of 32. Switzerland topped Group F with 7 points and are considered one of the strongest teams in the competition but Uganda has already proved they fear no one.
