The Dubai Youth Challenge Cup continues to serve thrilling encounters, and on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, attention shifts to Al Hamriya Cultural and Sports Club as Uganda’s U-17 national side, the Cubs, face off with South American opposition Paraguay under the floodlights at 8 PM.
This match presents Uganda with another stern test from the South American continent, following last week’s engaging 1-1 draw with Venezuela, in which sharp-shooting forward James Bogere found the back of the net.
The young Cubs have already showcased flashes of brilliance and resilience on foreign soil, earning plaudits for their attacking flair and compact structure.
However, the team will be aiming to bounce back after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Panama on Sunday. Uganda initially took control of the game through Simon Wanyama’s 13th-minute strike, but Panama responded swiftly.
Gordon Gerson leveled matters from the penalty spot in the 20th minute before Richards Moises sealed the comeback with a winner in the 58th minute.
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo, who also doubles as co-coach at KCCA FC, emphasized the immense value of these preparatory fixtures as his charges gear up for their maiden appearance at the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
“The boys have shown great hunger and willingness to play. These build-up games have been instrumental in giving us a clear picture of what to expect in the World Cup,” Ssenyondo remarked.
Uganda’s participation in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, scheduled for November 3–27, 2025 in Qatar, marks a historic milestone — the first-ever qualification for the East African nation at this level.
Drawn in Group K alongside Canada, Chile, and France, the Cubs are using the Dubai Challenge Cup to simulate the style and intensity expected on the world stage. Having already faced Venezuela and Panama, the clash against Paraguay provides another valuable benchmark against technically gifted South American opponents.
Beyond the sporting ambition, this tournament doubles as a global showcase platform for Uganda’s next generation of football talent — a golden chance for players and coaches alike to make an impression ahead of the global spectacle in Qatar.
Uganda U-17 Full Squad in Dubai
Goalkeepers:
Gilbert Mazige (NEC FC JT), Adrian Mukwanga (Vipers SC JT), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC JT), Edris Waibi (Buddo SS).
Defenders:
Elvis Torach (Masaka Sunshine FC), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC JT), Abdul Lukenge Ntege (Maroons FC JT), Hamuzza Sengooba (Masaka Sunshine FC), Jovan Nsenkero Mukisa (NEC FC JT), Akiz Job Aguma (Vancouver Whitecaps FC).
Midfielders:
Brian Jjara (KCCA FC JT), Abubakali Walusimbi (Vipers SC JT), Fred Junior Muhangi (Express FC JT), Isima Mulala Magala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Marvin Kabiito (Vipers SC JT), Brian John Owino (Express FC JT), Thomas Ogema (KCCA FC JT), Nuweagaba Kamurungi (Kitara FC JT), Derick Ssozi (Fort Portal Taxi Operators FC).
Forwards:
James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine FC), Enock Bagenda (KCCA FC JT), Arafat Nkoola (Vipers SC JT), Shakur Baggio Lucky Magogo (Namilyango College), John Asiimwe (Bukedea Comprehensive School), Richard Okello (BUL FC JT), Simon Wanyama (Bukedea Comprehensive School).
Technical and Support Team
Leader of Delegation: Ariga Rasoul Ibrahim
Head Coach: Brian Ssenyondo
Team Manager/FUFA Football Development Director: Bashir Mutyaba
Assistant Coach: Ronald Ssali
Fitness Coach: Massa Simoen
Goalkeeping Coach: Magada Kenneth
Team Doctors: Gumisiriza-Michael Kamu & Ivan Kulika
Physical Trainer: Dennis “Denol” Kizito
Equipment Manager: Ddamba Noah Veron
Team Media Officer: Joel Cornerious Kivumbi
FUFA TV Production: Julius Emmanuel Kakairi
As Uganda continues its Dubai expedition, the youthful Cubs will look to sharpen their tactical discipline and attacking precision. With Paraguay offering yet another formidable test, Ssenyondo’s side will be eager to show their growing maturity and underline their readiness for the world stage.
Kickoff: 8 PM (Dubai Time)
Venue: Al Hamriya Cultural & Sports Club, Dubai
