By Spy Uganda
A new chapter in Ugandan football history is being written. On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at exactly 5:20 AM, Uganda’s U17 Men’s National Team, popularly known as The Cubs, will touch down on home soil as newly crowned World Cup debutants. Their historic qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar this November is more than just a sporting milestone—it’s a testament to years of vision, strategy, and strong leadership at the helm of Ugandan football.
The Cubs clinched their place at the global showpiece after a nerve-wracking 2-1 victory over The Gambia on Saturday night in Morocco, becoming one of the ten African representatives for the tournament. Uganda now proudly joins the elite list that includes Egypt, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Zambia, South Africa, and Tunisia.
Moses Magogo’s Leadership: The Foundation of Success
While the players’ heroics rightly command the headlines, much of the credit for this unprecedented achievement must be attributed to the steady hand of FUFA President Moses Magogo. Under his leadership, Ugandan football has been transformed from the grassroots up. His ambitious focus on youth development, investment in infrastructure, and emphasis on talent identification have laid the foundation for this historic moment.
Magogo’s administration has systematically strengthened national academies, prioritized competitive exposure for junior teams, and professionalized technical departments across age groups. This strategic approach is now bearing fruit, with Uganda not only competing but thriving on the continental stage.
The Cubs’ Road to Glory
The path to Qatar wasn’t smooth. In their play-off clash against a resilient Gambian side, Uganda found themselves trailing just seconds into the match. But the Cubs showed maturity beyond their years, refusing to let the early blow rattle them. A coolly taken equalizer just before halftime by the rising star Bogere, followed by a clinical 78th-minute winner—again from Bogere after a sharp assist by Yusuf Ssekamatte—sealed Uganda’s fate.
Bogere, who has been a standout performer throughout the tournament, embodied the determination and tactical discipline instilled in this team. Uganda’s midfield dominance, composed defence, and unwavering belief carried them to victory.
A New Era For Ugandan Football
This qualification is more than just a ticket to the World Cup—it signals Uganda’s arrival on the global football map. It is a symbolic reward for years of patience and planning, and it sets a new benchmark for what is possible under sustained, visionary leadership.
As the Cubs return to a hero’s welcome, they bring with them more than just dreams—they carry the hopes of a nation and the proof that, with the right leadership and unwavering commitment, Ugandan football is on an unstoppable rise.
