As the Uganda U17 Boys National Team, known as the Cubs, prepares for their crucial semifinal match against Somalia on December 24, 2024, at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo, Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness.
Reflecting on their previous encounter in the 2022 CECAFA U-17 Championship, where Uganda was eliminated by Ethiopia in the semifinals after a 1-1 draw and a penalty shootout loss, Ssenyondo emphasized the importance of seizing the current opportunity.
“The feeling is one; we have to win the game tomorrow. It’s a semifinal which comes with two things: a slot in the final and also qualifying for U17 AFCON,” Ssenyondo stated.
The upcoming match holds significant stakes, as the two finalists from the CECAFA zone will secure qualification for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 30 to April 19, 2025.
Acknowledging the challenge posed by the defending champions, Ssenyondo noted, “I know Somalia is motivated by the fact that they won in the previous encounter in Ethiopia, but we know what we have to do.”
In terms of strategy, the coach highlighted the importance of scoring early: “We have to play as well as we did in our last game against Kenya. By scoring that first goal, it comes with much importance and can help seal the game.”
Addressing the notion of revenge, Ssenyondo clarified, “It is not revenge; football is a game of opportunities, and here we are, given another opportunity that we have to seize amidst the game’s toughness.”
The team’s preparations have been thorough, with their final training session held earlier today at MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo.
Regarding squad fitness, Ssenyondo provided an update on captain Richard Okello, who sustained an injury in the previous match against Kenya: “He is getting better with recovery up to 60 or 70 percent. The medics are yet to update on his status by end of business today, but I believe he will be ready to play maybe part of the game. If he is not ready, we have other players who can step in and give us a performance.”
The Cubs have demonstrated strong form in the tournament, notably with a 5-0 victory over Kenya in the final group stage match last weekend.
As the match approaches, the team remains focused and determined to secure a place in the U17 AFCON, aiming to capitalize on the opportunity to compete on the continental stage.
In the broader context of the tournament, several teams have already qualified for the U17 AFCON, including Egypt, Morocco, Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.
Pictorial: Last Training
