The stage is set for a defining moment in Uganda’s maiden FIFA U17 World Cup journey as the Uganda Cubs prepare to face Chile U17 in their second Group Stage fixture on Saturday at Aspire Zone – Pitch 8. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM local time (3:30 PM EAT).
Following a spirited performance in their World Cup debut that ended in a narrow 2–1 defeat to Canada in the dying minutes, the Cubs are determined to bounce back stronger. The team’s focus has now shifted fully to the Chile clash — a game that could determine their fate in the tournament.
For goalkeeper Mazige Gilbert, making his first appearance on the world stage was a dream come true — but one he hopes to build on with victory.
‘For me as an individual, I felt good playing my first game at the World Cup. It is everyone’s dream to play on such a stage, and I was so happy to get that chance,’ Mazige said. ‘I tried my level best to help the team win, but maybe that’s what God gave us. We are now focused on our next game tomorrow, and I promise to give my best so that we can win and qualify for the next round.’
Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo remains optimistic that his side will rise to the occasion, emphasising that the group’s ambitions remain unchanged despite the opening setback.
‘Our primary goal here is to progress from the group stages, and football gives you many chances. Tomorrow, we have another opportunity to achieve that target — if we win, we will be back in contention,’ he said. ‘We played good football against Canada and gave a strong fight. Any team can lose that way, but the most important thing is to pick lessons and apply them in the next game.’
Ssenyondo also gave insight into their tactical preparations, describing Chile as a defensively organised side.
‘They play in a 1-5-3-2 system, which shows they are very compact at the back and avoid conceding easily. We’ve studied their style, and I believe we can break them down and get the goals we need.”
The Cubs concluded their final preparations this evening at Al Thumama Stadium training pitch, with high spirits and renewed determination across the camp. Their motivation received an extra boost from the FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, who joined the team since their tournament kickoff to offer encouragement.
Hon. Magogo commended the players for their composure and fighting spirit, urging them to keep believing and representing the nation with pride. His presence, coupled with the growing support from Ugandans living in Qatar and the UAE, has greatly lifted the team’s morale ahead of Saturday’s must-win encounter.
Match Details:
Fixture: Uganda U17 vs Chile U17
Date: Saturday, 8 November 2025
Venue: Aspire Zone – Pitch 8, Doha
Kick-off: 3:30 PM (Local Time) / 3:30 PM (EAT)
Last training pictorial
