Uganda’s U-17 national team, the Cubs, are set for a stern continental test as they prepare for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, scheduled to run from May 13 to June 2.
The tournament will bring together 16 of Africa’s top youth sides in what the Confederation of African Football has described as a festival-style competition, with most matches staged at the Mohammed VI Football Complex and key fixtures—including the opening match, semi-finals and final—hosted at the Moulay Hassan Stadium. Beyond continental honours, the competition will also serve as a qualifier for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Uganda has been drawn in a competitive Group B alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon and DR Congo, setting up what promises to be a demanding group stage campaign for the East African side. The Cubs booked their slot at the finals through the CECAFA zone and now find themselves up against some of the continent’s most established youth football nations.
The tournament will be played in four groups of four teams, with the top two sides in each group progressing to the knockout stage, alongside the possibility of the best third-placed teams advancing. With qualification for the global showpiece on the line, the stakes are clear—every quarter-finalist will secure a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Uganda heads into the tournament under the guidance of coach Laryea Kingston, who has named a 27-man squad for the finals. The team will be captained by Owen Mukisa, one of the standout prospects expected to lead from the front.
Preparations have already shifted to Morocco, with the Cubs holding a pre-tournament training camp in Casablanca as they fine-tune their readiness ahead of kickoff. The early camp is intended to help the team acclimatize and build cohesion before facing their Group B opponents.
Defending champions Morocco will be aiming to retain their title on home soil, but for Uganda, the immediate focus will be on navigating a tricky group and pushing for a historic quarter-final place.
Progress beyond the group stage would not only underline the growth of youth football in the country but also guarantee a coveted ticket to the world stage.
