The Uganda Cubs faced a setback in their quest for direct qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup after suffering a defeat to Zambia in the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. The defeat means that Uganda will now have to battle it out in the play-offs for a chance to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
In a crucial Group A match against Zambia, Uganda needed a victory to secure a place in the quarter-finals and also secure direct qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup. However, the COSAFA team emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline at the El Arbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.
Despite falling behind to an early goal from Kelvin Mulenga Chipelu, Uganda managed to equalize through defender Elvis Torach early in the second half. Substitute Billy Daka then sealed the win for Zambia with a late goal, putting an end to Uganda’s hopes of direct qualification.
Uganda’s coach, Brian Ssenyondo, expressed disappointment at the result but emphasized that the team will now shift their focus to preparing for the upcoming play-off match. Uganda will face the third-placed team in Group C in the play-offs as they look to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
In another Group A match, hosts Morocco secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Tanzania, who suffered their third consecutive defeat in the tournament. The competition continues with more exciting matches, including Somalia facing reigning champions Senegal and The Gambia taking on Tunisia.
The top 10 teams at the U-17 AFCON will qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar as the CAF representatives, adding more pressure and excitement to the remaining matches in the tournament. Uganda will now have to regroup and give their all in the play-offs to secure a spot in the World Cup and make their nation proud on the global stage.
