Uganda’s U-17 side finally announced themselves on the global stage, digging deep to snatch a dramatic 1–1 draw against Chile in Doha, and head coach Brian Ssenyondo could hardly hide his pride.
After the final whistle at Aspire Zone, Ssenyondo’s message was clear: this was more than just a point. It was proof of a young team learning fast, shaking off the weight of their opening defeat to Canada, and growing into the moment.
Ssozi strikes at the death as Uganda Cubs snatch precious point against Chile
“It shows resilience, it shows a team that has character, a team that can come back from a goal down and from a painful loss against Canada,” Ssenyondo said. “It’s not the result we wanted because we wanted three points, but I believe we had a better team throughout the 90 minutes.”
The Cubs were forced to chase the game after conceding just before half-time, but their response was spirited. Substitute Ssozi Derick became the hero of the night, pouncing deep into stoppage time to secure Uganda’s first-ever point at a FIFA U-17 World Cup. The equalizer capped a second half in which Uganda pressed harder, moved the ball with confidence, and refused to bow to a Chile side rich in tournament experience.
Expect the A-Game tomorrow!
The Uganda U17 team ‘Cubs’will be hungry for victory against France #U17WC pic.twitter.com/KKIGa9APpl— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) November 10, 2025
For Ssenyondo, the draw underlined just how quickly his youngsters are maturing under the glare of world football.
“Some teams have been here for over 12 years and have never scored a goal. We already have two,” he noted. “The way we transitioned from defence to attack, the combination play, the breaking of lines, all were good. The boys deserve praise for this performance.”
He stressed that belief and composure were key, applauding his players for sticking to their identity even when under South American pressure. With two goals scored and a historic point on the board, the Cubs have shown they belong.
Up next — Uganda U17 vs France U17
Tuesday, 11th November 2025
🕞 3:30PM#UGAFRA | #U17WC pic.twitter.com/f77aiE1lKd— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) November 10, 2025
Uganda now shifts focus to a high-stakes final group game against France on Tuesday, November 11, with kick-off set for 3:30pm EAT. A statement has been made, and the football world is starting to look Uganda’s way.
