U-17: Ssenyondo draws key lessons as Uganda conclude Dubai friendlies

Uganda’s U17 national team, the Uganda Cubs, put up another brave performance but were edged 3–2 by South American side Paraguay in their final international friendly match of the Dubai Youth Challenge Cup on Tuesday night.

The encounter served as the Cubs’ final tune-up ahead of their historic debut at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, and once again, Brian Ssenyondo’s charges showcased attacking quality but were undone by defensive lapses.

The Cubs are ready for the global stage! 🇶🇦 🌍🔥 Uganda U17 — Tujja Tujja! 🇺🇬⚽

Kickoff: 3rd November #FIFAU17WC | #HomeOfUgandanSport pic.twitter.com/9kJmoBByxS

— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) October 23, 2025

The young Ugandans took the lead in the 24th minute through their danger man James Bogere, who continued his fine scoring form after also netting against Venezuela. However, Paraguay hit back strongly, equalizing from the penalty spot through Alan Ledesma in the 40th minute.

Just four minutes later, Almada Derlis put the South Americans ahead with a well-taken strike to ensure Paraguay went into the break leading 2-1. The Cubs returned for the second half rejuvenated, pressing higher and finding their equalizer in the 55th minute through Abubakali Walusimbi, who finished off a flowing attacking move.

Uganda is placed in Group K at FIFA U17 World Cup

Despite their resilience, Uganda’s defense was breached again in the 71st minute when De Cavalho Mouricio restored Paraguay’s lead one they held onto until the final whistle. The defeat was Uganda’s second in Dubai after a 2–1 loss to Panama, following an encouraging 1–1 draw with Venezuela in their opening fixture.

Full-Time. Paraguay U-17 3️⃣-2️⃣ Uganda U-17#PARUGA | #InternationalFriendly pic.twitter.com/IScBh3zwDs

— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) October 28, 2025

After the match, head coach Brian Ssenyondo reflected on the positives from the camp, emphasizing the valuable experience his team had gained from facing top opposition.

Ssenyondo noted that the Dubai tour had offered his young side a realistic picture of the challenges awaiting them at the World Cup, particularly against teams from the CONCACAF region, where two of Uganda’s group opponents—Canada and Chile—hail from. He further highlighted the team’s attacking progress but stressed the need to tighten up defensively before the tournament kicks off in Qatar.

Uganda is placed in Group K at the FIFA U17 World Cup, alongside Canada, Chile, and France, and will open their campaign on 5th November with Canada

Despite not recording a win in Dubai, the Cubs’ fighting spirit, goal-scoring consistency, and overall progress leave plenty of optimism as they prepare for their first-ever appearance on the global stage.

Uganda Cubs Results in Dubai Friendlies:

Uganda Cubs 1–1 Venezuela
Uganda Cubs 1–2 Panama
Uganda Cubs 2–3 Paraguay

Uganda Cubs Scorers in Dubai:

James Bogere (2)
Simon Wanyama (1)
Abubakali Walusimbi (1)

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