U-17 World Cup: Uganda eye quarterfinal slot in all-African showdown

Uganda return to action at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup with their sights firmly set on extending their fairytale run when they lock horns with Burkina Faso in the round of 16 at Aspire Zone – Pitch 5 in Qatar.

The all-African showdown promises intensity and grit, with both teams arriving in buoyant form. For Uganda, merely featuring at this stage is historic Qatar 2025 marks their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Yet their performances have defied expectations, capturing global admiration by marching out of the group stage after a famous victory over France and later edging Senegal in the round of 32.

Against Senegal, Abubakali Walusimbi delivered the decisive strike, but it was goalkeeper Edrisah Waibi who produced a heroic display, pulling off crucial saves to protect Uganda’s advantage and send the Cubs into uncharted territory.

Coach Brian Ssenyondo insists the team remains grounded but hungry for more. He admits the pressure is real but exactly the kind they welcome.

“The pressure is there, but it’s positive and desired. Everyone would love to be in such a position to have pressure of playing at the round of 16.”

Ssenyondo said. “Pressure makes us want to work. Senegal gave us a test, and now we face another African side with a similar style. We are motivated but fully aware of the demands ahead.”

Uganda will, however, be without key forward James Bogere, who is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards. Ssenyondo concedes the loss is significant but believes his squad has enough depth.

“Every coach would want all his players available, especially the key ones. But these are the rules. We will miss him, but I have players who can come in and do the job. We hope he finds us in the next round.”

He emphasised the need for consistency and character as the Cubs continue their match-by-match approach.

Burkina Faso, on their part, arrive on the back of a massive scalp, having knocked out defending champions Germany thanks to Mohamed Zongo’s early goal and a disciplined defensive stand. Their coach, Oscar Barro, is well aware of the challenge Uganda poses.

“Uganda making it to the Round of 16 shows their quality. We played them in a friendly, but every team has evolved since then,” Barro noted.

With confidence surging on both sides, the stage is set for a fierce continental clash—one that could propel Uganda deeper into their historic World Cup journey.

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