Uganda’s U-17 national team will square off with fellow African contenders Burkina Faso in a tantalising FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 16 showdown on Tuesday at 3:30pm.
The two emerging forces arrive for the duel riding on impressive victories from the Round of 32, each having stunned heavyweight opponents to book their place among the last sixteen.
The Cubs, making their maiden appearance at the global championship, shocked Senegal with a narrow yet decisive 1-0 triumph courtesy of a composed finish from Abubakali Walusimbi on Tuesday.
Burkina Faso, under the guidance of Oscar Barro, delivered an equally eye-catching performance as they knocked out defending champions Germany with a first-half strike from Mohamad Zongo.
Coach Barro expects a fiercely contested duel against Brian Ssenyondo’s rejuvenated Uganda side.
“Uganda making it to the Round of 16 tells you everything, you don’t get there by luck,” the tactician noted. “We faced them in a friendly before, but both teams have evolved. We must fine-tune our approach for a completely different battle.”
For Uganda, belief within camp is surging. Match-winner Walusimbi insists the Cubs are not merely passengers at the tournament.
“We must believe we can go all the way,” he remarked. “It’s our first time here, but we have the hunger, energy, and talent to push for the ultimate prize.”
However, Uganda will be forced to navigate the challenge without key forward James Bogere, who is suspended after accumulating yellow cards.
His absence opens the door for Bukedea Comprehensive’s rising star Simon Wanyama to step into the limelight. Bogere has already scored twice in the tournament, making his loss a significant test of the team’s depth.
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