History in Qatar! Uganda Cubs Stun France to Secure First-Ever World Cup Knockout Spot

By The Sports Editor | Published on November 12, 2025

In a moment that will be etched in Ugandan football history forever, the Uganda U-17 team, the "Cubs," have done the unthinkable. On their first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup, they have advanced to the knockout stages.

The nation held its breath as the Cubs faced a must-win game against former champions France in their final Group K match at the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar. Needing nothing less than a victory to keep their dreams alive, the team delivered a performance of courage, discipline, and brilliance.

The Decisive Moment

The historic goal came in the 18th minute. In a beautifully crafted move, team captain Hamuza Ssengoba delivered a precise pass to striker James Bogere, who made no mistake, slotting the ball home to give Uganda a 1-0 lead. It was a goal that sent the Ugandan fans into wild celebration and stunned the French side.

A Rollercoaster Group Stage

The journey to the Round of 32 was a dramatic one for Coach Brian Ssenyondo's young heroes. Their path through the incredibly tough Group K was a test of resilience:

• Match 1: Loss vs. Canada (2-1) A tough start, but James Bogere etched his name in the books by scoring Uganda's first-ever World Cup goal.

• Match 2: Draw vs. Chile (1-1) Showing incredible spirit, substitute Derrick Ssozi snatched a crucial point with a dramatic late equalizer.

• Match 3: Win vs. France (1-0) The historic victory that secured their progression against one of the tournament favorites.

In a bizarre and thrilling end to the group, all four teams—France, Canada, Uganda, and Chile—finished level on 4 points. The Cubs' superior record allowed them to advance as one of the best third-placed teams, a just reward for their heroic efforts.

A New Chapter for Ugandan Football

This achievement is more than just a single victory; it's a landmark moment for the entire nation. For a country making its debut on football's biggest stage, to not only compete but to advance to the Round of 32 is a monumental success and a testament to the growing talent and investment in Ugandan youth football.

The dream isn't over. The Uganda Cubs now prepare for the knockout stages, where they are set to face Senegal in the Round of 32. Whatever happens next, these young lions have already made their country proud and inspired a new generation of footballers.