The Uganda U17 Boys’ National Team delivered a performance of courage, structure and commitment to defeat Senegal in the Round of 32 at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. The victory sends the Cubs into the Round of 16 where they will face Burkina Faso after a spirited and disciplined display that reflected their growing belief on the world stage.
Uganda entered the knockout fixture buoyed by the confidence gained from their historic 1–0 victory against France in their final Group K match. That win, secured through a decisive strike from James Bogere, marked the nation’s first ever triumph at a FIFA World Cup tournament and propelled the Cubs forward in a group where all four teams finished level on four points. France topped the group, followed by Canada, Uganda and Chile on goal difference.
Senegal arrived in the fixture as one of the most formidable sides in the competition. They topped Group C with seven points and were the only African team among ten to finish as group leaders. Their tactical balance and physical presence presented a demanding challenge for Uganda who were required to compete with discipline and bravery.
Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo praised the commitment and resilience shown by his squad. He said: ‘I believe we have enjoyed the game very well, but also competed up to the last minute. I am very happy that the boys put the character, the spirit and the resilience. We dominated the game. Senegal is a tough team, but we fought for everything on the pitch and we deserved to win.’
Ssenyondo highlighted the influence of goalkeeper Edrisah Waibi whose early saves kept Uganda stable during the opening phase. He said: ‘I am proud of my goalkeeper Edrissa. He kept us in the game in those first thirty minutes. When everyone is beaten, you need your keeper to stand big in the goal. The small man today stood big in the goal.’
Waibi reflected on his improved performance and the work behind it. He said: ‘I made some mistakes in previous games but I worked on them with my goalkeeping coach. Those things have helped me and I have helped my team get a win. I feel very good and I am proud of myself. Those saves I made from the first half to the end were not easy and I think it was God’s mercy.’
The Cubs now turn their attention to a crucial Round of 16 encounter against Burkina Faso. With confidence growing and key players rising to the occasion, Uganda continue to write a remarkable story on the world stage.
