Uganda Cubs head coach Brian Ssenyondo has unveiled a comprehensive 37-man provisional squad as Uganda starts intensive preparations for the 2025 U17 AFCON.
The squad will gather at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru with preparations scheduled to commence on February 24, 2025. The Cubs, who secured their AFCON berth as CECAFA region champions with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Tanzania, are now setting their sights on an even loftier goal: qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Coach Ssenyondo has opted for a strategic blend of continuity and fresh talent. The core of the squad that triumphed in the CECAFA qualifiers has been retained, ensuring a strong foundation of teamwork and tactical understanding.
However, the squad has been bolstered with promising additions from the FUFA Juniors League and standout performers from various school competitions, injecting new energy and depth.
“We are building on the strong foundation laid during the CECAFA qualifiers,” stated Coach Ssenyondo. “The players have shown tremendous potential, and the new additions will only enhance our capabilities. Our goal is to be fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.”
Uganda finds itself in a fiercely competitive Group A, alongside hosts Morocco, regional rivals Tanzania, and Zambia.
This group stage will be a true test of the Cubs’ resilience and skill, requiring them to be at their absolute best to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
The technical team, led by Ssenyondo, will focus on refining tactical strategies, enhancing physical fitness, and strengthening the players’ mental fortitude.
The squad features a diverse range of talent, with goalkeepers like Lukyamuzi Ashiraf (KCCA FC SA) and Aaron Zziwa (Working FC Academy-England) vying for the starting position. Defenders such as Mukisa Marcus Jonathan (SC Villa JT) and midfielders like Jjara Brain (KCCA FC SA) and Amaku Guot (Brooke House College-England) bring a mix of experience and youthful exuberance.
The forward line, featuring Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College School) and Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT), promises to be a potent attacking force.
The technical team, comprising experienced coaches and medical staff, will play a crucial role in ensuring the Cubs are in peak condition for the tournament.
The team includes Assistant Coach Ssali Ronald, Goalkeeper Coach Magada Keneth, and Team Manager Mutyaba Bashir, among others.
Full Squad List: Goalkeepers: Lukyamuzi Ashiraf (KCCA FC SA), Waibi Edrisah (Wakiso Giants FC JT), Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT), Kakaire Nicholas (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Aaron Zziwa (Working FC Academy-England)
Defenders: Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC), Oyirwoth Pius (KCCA FC SA), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC SA), Ssengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC), Nsereko Jovan Mukisa (NEC FC JT), Kayiza Raymond Serunyigo (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Buluma Sudiki (Police FC JT), Shaban Ali (Express FC JT), Mukisa Marcus Jonathan (SC Villa JT), Latigo King Sammy (Empire FC)
Midfielders: Jjara Brain (KCCA FC SA), Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT), Isima Magala Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Okello Richard (BUL FC JT), Kabiito Marvin (Vipers SC JT), Owino John Brian (Express FC JT), Kyakuwa Ashiraf (Vipers SC JT), Ogema Thomas (KCCA FC SA), Kamurungi Nuweagaba (Kitara FC JT), Ssozi Derrick (Fort Portal Tax Operators FC), Langol Joseph (Poarhinar Soccer Academy), Ssembusi Patrick (Amus College School), Amaku Guot (Brooke House College-England)
Forwards: Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College School), Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT), Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC), Wanyama Simon (Vipers SC JT), Ntege Abdul Lukenge (Maroons FC JT), Masudi Raphael (KCCA FC SA), Babalanda Tom (BUL FC JT), Mubiru Mahad (Mbale Heroes FC JT), Joel Kigenyi (Bukedea Comprehensive SS)
