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Uganda Cubs missed the chance to secure early qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup after falling 1-0 to Cameroon in their second Group B match at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 on Friday.
Following an impressive 3-0 victory over DR Congo in their opening fixture, Uganda came into the encounter knowing another win would move them closer to both the knockout stages and World Cup qualification. However, the Cubs were undone by a resilient Cameroon side determined to revive their campaign after losing to Côte d’Ivoire in their first game.
Cameroon began the contest with greater urgency, pressing aggressively and disrupting Uganda’s passing rhythm from the opening minutes.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute when Abdulraman Soudeisse capitalised on a defensive lapse in the Uganda backline before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to give the Young Indomitable Lions the lead.
Uganda struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the opening half as Cameroon remained organised defensively and strong in midfield.
The Cubs improved after the break and enjoyed more possession as they searched for an equaliser. They pushed forward with intent and showed determination in the closing stages, but were unable to find a breakthrough against a disciplined Cameroon defence.
Despite the defeat, Uganda still remain in contention for qualification heading into their final Group B match against Côte d’Ivoire, a contest that could determine both knockout-stage progression and FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification.
The Cubs will now need a positive result against the West Africans to keep their dream campaign alive.
