The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, the Cubs, have safely arrived in Doha, Qatar, ready to continue their historic journey at the FIFA U17 World Cup — Uganda’s first-ever appearance at the global stage.
The team departed Dubai early Saturday morning after completing a 9 days training camp that featured three high-profile international friendlies against Venezuela, Panama, and Paraguay U17 sides.
Speaking before the team’s departure, assistant captain Walusimbi Abubakali expressed optimism following the build-up games.
‘This was our last sweat in Dubai, now we head to Qatar. The friendly matches gave us a good test and great experience — we have really learned lessons from them,’ Walusimbi said.
Walusimbi noted that the team has quickly adapted to the environment and is mentally prepared for the tournament’s intensity.
‘The weather here is actually not too different from home, so we’ll not face many challenges with it,’ he added. ‘We have already switched from friendly game mode to competition mode, and I can promise we’ll do our best to represent the country well.’
A total of 21 players made the final squad that will represent Uganda in Qatar. Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo, while unveiling the final squad, expressed confidence in the group selected to make Uganda proud.
‘We believe this is the best squad to represent us in Qatar,’ Ssenyondo stated. ‘We have only added a few new players who weren’t with us during the AFCON, but the core of the team has been maintained.’
Okello Richard will captain the team, assisted by Walusimbi Abubakali, Sengooba Hamuza, and Bogere James.
The Cubs will be based at Holiday Villa Hotel and Residence – City Center Doha, Qatar and will open their World Cup campaign against Canada on Wednesday, 5th November 2025, with kickoff set for 6:45 pm (local time and EAT).
Final Uganda U17 World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers:
Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT), Edrisah Waibi (Buddo SS), Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC JT)
Defenders:
Mukisa Jovan Nsereko (NEC FC JT), Sengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC), Oyirwoth Steven (KCCA FC), Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC), Ntege Abdul (Maroons FC JT)
Midfielders:
Jjara Brain (KCCA FC), Ssozi Derick (Fort Portal Taxi Operators FC), Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT), Magala Isima Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Asiimwe John (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Nuweagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC JT), Owino John Brian (Express FC JT)
Forwards:
Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC), Okello Richard (BUL FC JT), Wanyama Simon (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College), Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT), Bagenda Enock (KCCA FC SA)
