Uganda U-17 head coach Brian Ssenyondo has rallied his young troops for what he describes as a do-or-die mission as the Cubs prepare to face The Gambia in a decisive playoff on Saturday evening.
The crucial clash, scheduled for 7:00 pm EAT at El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida, Morocco, offers Uganda a rare second chance to qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Despite missing out on the AFCON U-17 quarterfinals, the Cubs advanced to the playoffs after finishing third in their group. Their opponents, The Gambia, also placed third in their group. The second playoff will feature Egypt against Angola, with only two more World Cup spots left up for grabs.
“This is our last chance,” Ssenyondo stressed. “Gambia is a strong side, very competitive. But the World Cup has always been our dream—we have to fight for it.”
Victory on Saturday would see Uganda reach the U-17 World Cup for the first time in history. The nation had previously qualified for the 2020 edition, but that tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, The Gambia boasts experience, having featured at the 2005 and 2009 editions of the tournament.
Ssenyondo believes his side has what it takes, despite falling short in their most recent outing.
“We’re confident,” he affirmed. “The boys gave a good performance in the last match, even though we didn’t get the result. That effort gives us belief heading into this final game.”
The players themselves are embracing the magnitude of the moment. Midfielder Steven Oyirwoth echoed the coach’s sentiments, underlining the team’s determination.
“This is a do-or-die game,” Oyirwoth said. “No second chances. If we really want to achieve our World Cup dream, we have to give it everything. Everyone is focused and ready.”
However, the team faces a slight setback as forward James Bogere remains a fitness doubt after missing two training sessions. He will be assessed before kickoff, though Ssenyondo is expected to retain much of his trusted starting eleven.
For the Cubs, this isn’t just a football match, it’s the final push toward a dream that has long lingered in the hearts of the nation’s young footballing talents. Victory would mark a monumental step in Uganda’s youth football history.
Last Training Pictorial
