Clinical Uganda seal AFCON U-17 2026 spot with commanding win over Ethiopia

Uganda Cubs are through to the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 after a convincing 3–0 victory over hosts Ethiopia in the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers semifinal on Sunday at the Abebe Bikila Stadium. The result secures Uganda’s place among the region’s three representatives at next year’s continental showpiece.

Uganda delivered a composed and disciplined display, growing stronger as the game progressed. After a cagey first half, the breakthrough arrived seven minutes after the restart when Lorian Lwesibawa applied a sharp finish to cap sustained attacking pressure. The momentum quickly swung fully in Uganda’s favour, with Thomas Ogema doubling the lead just two minutes later through a calm, well-placed effort.

With confidence high, the Cubs continued to dictate the tempo. Their dominance was sealed in the 78th minute when Lwesibawa curled a superb free kick beyond the Ethiopian defence and goalkeeper to complete his brace and put the contest to bed.

While the goals told one story, Uganda’s defensive organisation told another. The backline remained compact and alert, restricting the hosts to minimal threats and ensuring the clean sheet remained intact.

Earlier in the day, Tanzania became the first CECAFA nation to book a ticket to the U-17 AFCON after defeating Kenya 3–1 in the opening semifinal. With both finalists and the bronze-medal winners earning qualification, Uganda’s triumph confirmed their place before the tournament finale.

The victory now sets up a mouth-watering final between regional rivals Uganda and Tanzania on Tuesday, 2nd December at 3:30 pm at the Abebe Bikila Stadium. As defending champions, the Cubs will be eager to retain their crown and close their qualification campaign in style.

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