Uganda Cubs Land in Tough Group B with Cameroon and Ivory Coast at U-17 Afcon

Uganda’s U-17 national team, known as the Cubs, has been placed in a formidable Group B for the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from May 13 to June 2 in Morocco. The draw, held in Cairo, Egypt, pits them against powerhouses Ivory Coast (2013 champions) and Cameroon (winners in 2005 and 2019), alongside newcomers DR Congo.

This group stands out as one of the tournament’s toughest, with the top two teams from each group earning direct qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar this November. Third-placed sides will vie for Africa’s two additional slots, contributing to a 10-team African presence in the expanded 48-team global event.

The Cubs arrive with strong credentials, having made history at the 2025 U-17 World Cup by reaching the Round of 16 after victories over France and Senegal. They qualified for this Afcon via a convincing 3-0 semi-final win over Ethiopia in the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers, under Ghanaian coach Laryea Kingston.

Kingston emphasized preparation: “We know the challenge ahead, but our focus is on preparation and team cohesion. The players are talented and hungry for success.”

Other groups include: Group A (Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia); Group C (Senegal, South Africa, Algeria, Ghana); Group D (Mali, Angola, Tanzania, Mozambique).

Uganda aims to build on its youth football momentum and advance deep into the continental competition.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)