The stage is about, the problem is immense, and the mission is evident—Uganda’s U17 Nationwide Workforce, The Uganda Cubs is heading again to Morocco decided to show that their historic 2025 run was no fluke.
Following the official draw for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2026, Uganda has been positioned in a frightening Group B alongside continental heavyweights Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and DR Congo. Dubbed the event’s “Group of Dying,” the pool guarantees high-intensity clashes from the very first whistle.
The event will run from thirteenth Might to 2nd June 2026 in Morocco, the place the hosts additionally enter because the reigning U-17 AFCON champions.
However for a facet that has already shaken the worldwide stage, these giants symbolize alternative somewhat than concern.
Uganda arrives on the event using on the wave of a breakthrough 2025 marketing campaign—one which redefined the nation’s place in youth soccer. The “Cubs” made historical past in Morocco, displaying resilience and character towards high opposition.
After struggling a heavy 5–0 defeat to hosts Morocco of their opening match, Uganda responded in model with a commanding 3–0 win over Tanzania. A slim 2–1 loss to Zambia adopted, however the younger facet held their nerve when it mattered most, edging The Gambia 2–1 in a high-stakes playoff to safe a historic qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
That achievement alone would have marked a milestone—however the Cubs went even additional.
On the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, Uganda captured international consideration with a fearless run. Drawn in a tricky group, they surprised former champions France with a well-known 1–0 victory. The momentum continued into the knockout stage, the place they eradicated African rivals Senegal by the identical scoreline to achieve the Spherical of 16.
Their exceptional journey finally resulted in a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Burkina Faso, however by then, Uganda had already introduced itself as a rising power in world soccer.
Now, the main focus shifts again to Africa.
At stake is extra than simply continental satisfaction—the highest 10 groups on the event will qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar as Africa’s representatives.
To get there, Uganda should navigate a path by way of a few of the continent’s most formidable sides.
All teams
About the Author
