Uganda Cubs suffered their first defeat of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after falling 1-0 to Cameroon in a tightly contested group stage encounter in Morocco.
Coming into the fixture with confidence following an impressive 3-0 triumph over DR Congo, the Cubs were unable to maintain their winning momentum as Cameroon produced a disciplined display to claim all three points.
The opening stages were cautious, with both teams prioritising defensive organisation and limiting spaces in midfield. Clear-cut chances were difficult to come by as the contest developed into a physical and tactical battle.
Cameroon eventually found the breakthrough in the 24th minute through Abdulraman Soudeisse, who reacted quickest inside the penalty area to fire home a well-taken volley after a dangerous delivery into the box.
Full-Time! Cameroon U-17 1️⃣-0️⃣ Uganda U-17#CMRUGA | #TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 pic.twitter.com/kWhIMwNQWn
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) May 16, 2026
Uganda struggled to establish rhythm in possession for large spells of the match, particularly in midfield where the Cameroonians imposed themselves with intensity and physical presence. Despite attempts to respond after the break, the East Africans found it difficult to create meaningful opportunities against a compact Cameroon defence.
The result sees Uganda drop to third place in the group standings after two matches. The Cubs now face a daunting final group fixture against table leaders Ivory Coast as they seek to keep their qualification hopes alive.
