The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team, fondly known as the Cubs, jetted out of Entebbe on Tuesday afternoon, bound for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where they will conduct their final training camp ahead of the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. The global showpiece will run from November 3 to 27, marking Uganda’s first-ever appearance at the tournament.
The 38-member delegation, comprising 26 players and 12 officials, is led by FUFA Executive Committee member Rasoul Ariga, who serves as the official head of delegation.
This 10-day international training camp represents the last stage of the Cubs’ preparations before they make the short trip to Qatar. During their stay in Dubai, the team will engage in intensive drills and a series of friendly matches against elite youth teams from around the world. Fixture details are expected to be announced soon.
FUFA officials believe this camp will provide a perfect environment for the technical team to evaluate tactical cohesion, physical sharpness, and psychological readiness before the World Cup curtain rises.
It started as a dream, now a reality.
The Uganda U17 Men’s National Team is at the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 Qatar 🇶🇦
3rd-27th November 2025 #FIFAU17WC pic.twitter.com/GrNpUXRm9V
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) October 20, 2025
Friendly against Amus College School
Before flying out, the Cubs wrapped up their domestic program in style with a 5–0 demolition of Amus College School in a friendly played at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba. James Bogere stole the spotlight with a fine hat-trick, while Abubakali Walusimbi and Nuwagaba Kamurungi each added a goal to complete the rout.
Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo, who has overseen the Cubs’ inspiring rise, was full of praise for his young charges after the game.
“This was our last friendly game here in Uganda before we switch camp to Dubai,” said Ssenyondo.
“I am impressed with how the players are adapting and showing maturity, especially in implementing our attacking principles in the final third. The improvement game by game gives us confidence heading into the World Cup.”
Ssenyondo, who confirmed this will be his final assignment at youth level before transitioning to senior team management, added that the international exposure in Dubai will be invaluable for his players. He noted that testing themselves against unfamiliar opponents would help build their confidence and tactical adaptability ahead of their global debut.
FIFA High Performance Specialist Abdul Faisal Chibsah on Uganda’s maiden appearance in the FIFA World Cup U17 in Qatar. pic.twitter.com/B1J60YgWng
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) October 22, 2025
The Cubs have been based at FUFA Hotel in Kisaasi since October 7, working intensively on fitness, tactical awareness, and game intelligence.
At the World Cup, Uganda has been drawn in Group K alongside Canada, Chile, and France, with their opening fixture coming against Canada on November 5, 2025.
Uganda Cubs squad for Dubai camp
Goalkeepers: Gilbert Mazige (NEC), Adrian Mukwanga (Vipers), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA), Edris Waibi (Buddo SS)
Defenders: Elvis Torach (Masaka Sunshine), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA), Abdul Lukenge Ntege (Maroons), Hamuzza Sengooba (Masaka Sunshine), Jovan Nsenkero Mukisa (NEC), Akiz Job Aguma (Vancouver Whitecaps)
Midfielders: Brian Jjara (KCCA), Abubakali Walusimbi (Vipers), Fred Junior Muhangi (Express), Isima Mulala Magala (Masaka Sunshine), Marvin Kabiito (Vipers), Brian John Owino (Express), Thomas Ogemaa (KCCA), Nuwagaba Kamurungi (Kitara), Derick Ssozi (Fort Portal Taxi Operators)
Forwards: Shakur Baggio Lucky Magogo (Namilyango College), John Asiimwe (Bukedea Comprehensive), Richard Okello (BUL FC), Simon Wanyama (Bukedea Comprehensive), James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine), Enock Bagenda (KCCA), Arafat Nkoola (Vipers).
Uganda Cubs at Dubai International Airport
Uganda U17 National men’s team arrives in Dubai for a 10 day international camp for further preparations of the FIFA World Cup U17 in Qatar.#FIFAU17WC pic.twitter.com/wPJhC2g5oI
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) October 22, 2025
