2026 AFCON U-17: Kingston confident Uganda Cubs can overcome Cameroon test

The Uganda Cubs return to action on Saturday evening with head coach Laryea Kingston expressing confidence ahead of a crucial Group B encounter against Cameroon at the 2026 TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Uganda head into the contest buoyed by a commanding 3-0 victory over DR Congo in their opening match, a performance that lifted morale within the camp and strengthened hopes of progressing to the knockout stage and securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Uganda Building Confidence After Strong Start

Opening victory against DR Congo gives the Cubs momentum heading into Match Day Two. Saturday’s clash, scheduled for 7 pm, is expected to play a major role in shaping the group standings. Cameroon enters the match under pressure after suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Ivory Coast in their opening fixture, leaving them desperate for a positive response.

Kingston, however, believes Uganda has prepared well enough to compete strongly against one of Africa’s traditional football powers.

“We know Cameroon is a strong football nation with great history at this level, so we expect a difficult game,” Kingston noted.

“But the opening victory gave the players confidence and belief. We are now fully focused on Cameroon and preparing a game plan that can create problems for them.”

Kingston’s Philosophy Centered on Possession and Discipline

Uganda’s coach wants his side to dominate matches through intelligent football

Since taking charge of the Cubs, Kingston has implemented a clear football identity based on ball possession, tactical discipline, and controlling the rhythm of matches.

“As a coach, I believe in dominating games through possession because when you take good care of the ball, you increase your chances of controlling matches and getting results,” he explained.

The Ghanaian tactician also praised the technical qualities within the Ugandan squad, insisting the players fit naturally into the style of football he wants the team to embrace.

“From the first day I arrived in Uganda, I recognised the quality and potential of the players. Their style suits the type of football I believe in, and the players now understand the importance of discipline and following the game plan.”

Focus on Mental Strength and Character Development

The technical team introduces “character classes” to help players grow on and off the pitch
Beyond tactical preparations, Kingston revealed that the technical bench has placed strong emphasis on the players’ mentality and personal growth throughout the tournament.

According to the coach, the team regularly holds sessions known as “character classes,” where players discuss different life topics aimed at building responsibility, resilience, and unity within the squad.

“You can have all the talent in the world, but if you are not mentally ready, it becomes difficult to perform consistently,” Kingston explained.

“We discuss different topics together as a team to help the players grow mentally and become stronger individuals both on and off the pitch. Victory over Cameroon would move the Cubs closer to the AFCON quarterfinals and the FIFA U-17 World Cup

Uganda will complete their group stage campaign against the Ivory Coast next Tuesday, while Cameroon will also have to face DR Congo in their remaining fixture.

Kingston believes qualification for the World Cup would mark a major milestone for both the players and Ugandan football as a whole.

“For the players, it would be a huge opportunity to test themselves on the world stage and gain important experience,” he said.

“And for Ugandan football, it would show that the youth development structures are moving in the right direction. We still have areas to improve, especially in scouting and talent identification, but we are making progress. For now, our full focus is on Cameroon and taking things one game at a time.”