Uganda depart for Dubai camp ahead of historic FIFA U17 World Cup debut

The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, known as the Uganda Cubs, has departed for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, for a 10-day residential training camp as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2025, set to run from November 3rd to 27th.

A delegation of 38 members including 26 players and 12 officials flew out on Tuesday, led by FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga, who will serve as the Leader of Delegation.

This marks a significant step in Uganda’s final phase of preparation before making their historic debut at the global showpiece next month.

Before departure, the Cubs wrapped up their domestic camp with a commanding 5–0 victory over Amus College in a friendly match played on Monday, October 20th at FUFA stadium, Kadiba.

Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo expressed delight with the progress his young charges have shown over recent weeks.

“I am impressed with how the players are adapting and showing maturity, especially in implementing our attacking principles in the final third. The improvement game by game gives us confidence heading into the World Cup,” said Ssenyondo.

At the end of the Dubai camp, the final 21-man squad for the World Cup will be named.

Uganda has been drawn in Group K alongside football powerhouses France, Chile, and Canada.

The Cubs will open their campaign against Canada on November 5th, 2025.

Full Travelling Contingent.

Goalkeepers: Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC), Adrian Mukwanga (Vipers SC), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC), Edris Waibi (Buddo SS).

Defenders: Elvis Torach (Masaka Sunshine FC), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC), Abdul Lukenge Ntege (Maroons FC), Hamuzza Sengooba (Masaka Sunshine FC), Jovan Nsenkero Mukisa (NEC FC), Akiz Job Aguma (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)

Midfielders: Brian Jjara (KCCA FC), Abubakali Walusimbi (Vipers SC), Fred Junior Muhangi (Express FC), Isima Mulala Magala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Marvin Kabiito (Vipers SC), Brian John Owino (Express FC), Thomas Ogemaa (KCCA FC), Nuweagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC), Derick Ssozi (Fort Portal Taxi Operators FC).

Forwards: Shakur Baggio Lucky Magogo (Namilyango College), John Asiimwe (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Richard Okello (BUL FC), Simon Wanyama (Bukedea Comprehensive School), James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine FC), Enock Bagenda (KCCA FC), Arafat Nkoola (Vipers SC).

Technical Staff:

Head Coach: Brian Ssenyondo
Team Manager / FUFA Football Development Director: Bashir Mutyaba
Assistant Coach: Ronald Ssali
Fitness Coach: Simoen Massa
Goalkeeping Coach: Kenneth Magada
Team Doctors: Michael Kamu Gumisiriza, Ivan Kulika
Physical Trainer: Dennis Kizito
Equipment Manager: Noah Veron Ddamba
Media Officer: Joel Kivumbi