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The Uganda U-17 national team will look to take another major step toward FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification when they face Cameroon in a crucial Group B encounter at the ongoing 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday evening.
Uganda heads into the contest full of confidence after an impressive 3-0 victory over DR Congo in their opening match, a result that placed the Cubs among the early pace setters in the group.
A second straight win would move the East Africans closer to securing a place in both the AFCON U-17 quarterfinals and the FIFA U-17 World Cup, with the top two teams in each group guaranteed qualification.
Speaking ahead of the decisive clash, Uganda Cubs head coach Laryea Kingston acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side but expressed belief in the team’s preparation and mentality.
“We know Cameroon are a strong football nation with great history at this level, so we expect a difficult match,” Kingston said.
“However, the victory in our first game gave the players confidence and belief. We are now fully focused on Cameroon and preparing well to execute our game plan.”
Cameroon will enter the match under pressure after losing 2-0 to Ivory Coast in their opening fixture and will be desperate to revive their qualification hopes.
Despite the importance of the occasion, Kingston insists Uganda will remain faithful to their attacking and possession-based approach that impressed against DR Congo.
“As a coach, I believe in controlling matches through possession because when you manage the ball well, you improve your chances of controlling the game and achieving positive results,” he explained.
The former Ghana international also praised the discipline and technical quality within the squad, revealing that the players have embraced his football philosophy since the start of preparations.
“From the moment I arrived, I recognised the quality and potential of Ugandan players. The players now understand the importance of discipline, hard work and following the game plan.”
Beyond tactics and training sessions, the technical bench has also focused on the mental growth of the players through special “character classes” designed to strengthen unity, resilience and responsibility within the team.
“You can have all the talent in the world, but if you are not mentally ready, it becomes difficult to perform at your best,” Kingston noted.
“These sessions help the players grow mentally, stay united as a team and prepare for different challenges in football and life.”
Uganda will conclude their Group B campaign against Ivory Coast next Tuesday, but all focus remains firmly on the Cameroon showdown as the Cubs continue chasing a historic World Cup dream.
