Uganda U-17 head coach Brian Ssenyondo remains upbeat despite watching his side fall 2–1 to Panama in the ongoing U-17 Dubai Youth Challenge 2025.
The defeat, which came after a bright start to the competition, served as a stern reminder of the work that still lies ahead for the young Cubs as they fine-tune for the global showpiece.
Uganda Cubs set off for Dubai to finalize World Cup preparations
Reflecting on the encounter, Ssenyondo admitted that while the performance was encouraging, there are defensive issues that must be urgently addressed.
“It has been a good game, and I think the boys played well. We conceded from a set piece, and it’s the second time we are conceding in that manner. Yes, it’s a new problem, and I’m confident it will be solved,” he stated.
Despite the setback, the youthful tactician praised his players for their creativity and fighting spirit, even though luck deserted them in front of goal.
“Over 90 minutes, I think we were the better team. We will have ourselves to blame because we created several chances and hit the woodwork several times, ultimately failing to convert our opportunities,” he added.
🎙️ Uganda Cubs head coach Brian Ssenyondo’s verdict on the team’s 2-1 loss to Panama U-17#PANUGA | #internationalFriendly pic.twitter.com/cd5LCTg8g0
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) October 26, 2025
For Ssenyondo, the loss is less about the result and more about growth, with every mistake serving as a vital learning curve ahead of sterner tests.
“It’s important to pick lessons and work on them as soon as possible. Hard luck to the boys, and I hope we can pick up three points on Tuesday,” he concluded.
The Cubs have now scored in both matches of the Dubai Challenge, a sign of progress in attack, but their backline remains a concern that Ssenyondo and his technical team intend to fix before the main tournament.
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Uganda will round off their friendly schedule with a tricky tie against Paraguay on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, as they chase a morale-boosting victory to wrap up their pre-tournament campaign.
