By Uganda’s Under-17 national football team, the Uganda Cubs, have been crowned CECAFA champions after defeating Somalia 6-5 on penalties following a goalless final in Kigali, Rwanda.
The victory on Monday, October 19, secured the regional title for the Cubs and capped an impressive campaign under Ghanaian coach Laryea Kingston.
Both teams struggled to find a breakthrough at Kigali Pele Stadium, with Uganda coming close when captain Henry Muhoozi struck the crossbar late in the second half. Goalkeeper David Ssegirinya then played a decisive role in the penalty shootout, helping Uganda secure the trophy.
The Cubs had already booked their place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Under-17 finals after thrashing Ethiopia 4-0 in the semi-final on Saturday, October 17. The continental tournament will be held in Morocco.
Uganda also collected three individual awards. Captain Muhoozi was named Most Valuable Player, Ssegirinya won Best Goalkeeper, while Arnold Kayemba finished as the tournament’s top scorer with four goals.
The victory gives the young Ugandans a regional title and a boost as they prepare to compete against Africa’s best youth teams at the continental finals.
Uganda will be joined by Somalia and hosts Rwanda, who secured the third and final qualification place from the CECAFA zone after defeating Ethiopia 2-1 in the third-place play-off.
Source: Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) and CECAFA.
