Anticipation is sky-high across Uganda’s football community as the nation’s U17 men’s team, proudly known as the Cubs, begins its march toward glory at the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo has officially named a 37-player provisional squad, setting the stage for an intense preparation camp beginning on February 24, 2025, at the renowned FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
The Cubs punched their ticket to the AFCON as CECAFA champions, showcasing exceptional determination and flair. Their electrifying 2-1 victory over Tanzania in the finals highlighted their tactical intelligence, passion, and unity.
Now, with the AFCON showdown scheduled for March 30 to April 19, 2025, in Morocco, the ultimate ambition lies ahead securing a spot at the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Coach Ssenyondo has emphasized squad unity by retaining many of the standout players from the triumphant CECAFA campaign. This familiarity ensures strong team chemistry and a tactical edge.
In addition, exciting new talent from the FUFA Juniors League and top school competitions bring fresh energy, ambition, and depth to an already formidable squad.
Uganda will compete in a formidable Group A alongside hosts Morocco, regional rivals Tanzania, and football powerhouse Zambia. Each opponent brings a different challenge, demanding sharp tactics, peak fitness, and mental fortitude.
The Cubs’ technical team will focus on refining strategy, boosting stamina, and strengthening resilience to ensure they’re ready for this high-stakes competition.
Provisional Squad List
Goalkeepers:
- Lukyamuzi Ashiraf (KCCA FC SA)
- Waibi Edrisah (Wakiso Giants FC JT)
- Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT)
- Kakaire Nicholas (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT)
- Aaron Zziwa (Working FC Academy, England)
Defenders:
- Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC)
- Oyirwoth Pius (KCCA FC SA)
- Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC SA)
- Ssengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC)
- Nsereko Jovan Mukisa (NEC FC JT)
- Kayiza Raymond Serunyigo (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT)
- Buluma Sudiki (Police FC JT)
- Shaban Ali (Express FC JT)
- Mukisa Marcus Jonathan (SC Villa JT)
- Latigo King Sammy (Empire FC)
Midfielders:
- Jjara Brain (KCCA FC SA)
- Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT)
- Isima Magala Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC)
- Okello Richard (BUL FC JT)
- Kabiito Marvin (Vipers SC JT)
- Owino John Brian (Express FC JT)
- Kyakuwa Ashiraf (Vipers SC JT)
- Ogema Thomas (KCCA FC SA)
- Kamurungi Nuweagaba (Kitara FC JT)
- Ssozi Derrick (Fort Portal Tax Operators FC)
- Langol Joseph (Poarhinar Soccer Academy)
- Ssembusi Patrick (Amus College School)
- Amaku Guot (Brooke House College, England)
Forwards:
- Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College School)
- Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT)
- Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC)
- Wanyama Simon (Vipers SC JT)
- Ntege Abdul Lukenge (Maroons FC JT)
- Masudi Raphael (KCCA FC SA)
- Babalanda Tom (BUL FC JT)
- Mubiru Mahad (Mbale Heroes FC JT)
- Joel Kigenyi (Bukedea Comprehensive SS)
Technical staff
- Head Coach: Brian Ssenyondo
- Assistant Coach: Ssali Ronald
- Goalkeeper Coach: Magada Keneth
- Fitness Coach: Massa Simeon
- Trainer: Kizito Dennis
- Team Manager: Mutyaba Bashir
- Team Doctors: Gumisiriza Micheal, Kulika Ivan
- Equipment Manager: Damba Veron
- Media Officer: Kivumbi Joel Cornerious
