U-17 World Cup: Ssenyondo, Sengooba steer Cubs into high-stakes encounter with Senegal

The Uganda U-17 Boys’ National Team, the Cubs, are gearing up for a massive test as they face Senegal in the Round of 32 at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar tomorrow, Saturday 15th November 2025.

Uganda arrive in the knockout stage riding a wave of belief after a historic group-phase campaign.

The Cubs stunned France with a memorable 1–0 victory in their final Group K fixture, the nation’s first-ever win at a FIFA World Cup tournament.

Forward James Bogere delivered the decisive goal on Tuesday, a moment that propelled Uganda into the knockouts after all four teams in the group finished on four points.

France topped the group, followed by Canada, Uganda and Chile based on goal difference.

Their next opponent, Senegal, showed impressive strength in Group C, finishing as leaders with seven points the only African side among ten to top their group.

Known for their tactical order and physical presence, the West Africans present one of the toughest fixtures Uganda could draw at this stage.

Head coach Brian Ssenyondo speaks

As the Cubs intensified preparations, head coach Brian Ssenyondo reflected on the mindset required for such a high-stakes match.

“It’s a knockout stage,” Ssenyondo noted. “Like we played France, two different games but almost of the same kind of magnitude because against France it was as knockout as well, if you won, you stayed, if you didn’t win, your home. I believe we know what is at stake, that we need to win to progress, no other chance, and I am certain we shall present ourselves very well and qualify to the next round.”

Assistant captain Hamuzah Sengooba

From within the dressing room, assistant captain Hamuzah Sengooba echoed his coach’s confidence while acknowledging the challenge ahead.

“Senegal will be tough since they led their group, they won most of their games and didn’t concede,” Sengooba said. “I think it will be tough but we will have to be tougher, so facing a tough opponent gives you a better understanding of the game where you’re going. Our target was to get out of the group but we now want to achieve more, and winning at such a level is the best feeling.”

The victor between Uganda and Senegal will advance to face either Germany or Burkina Faso in the next round, raising the stakes even higher.

With momentum, improved confidence and leadership on and off the pitch, the Cubs step into Saturday’s encounter knowing the magnitude and opportunity that lies ahead.

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