By Nabakiibi Dorren Malaika
The Uganda Cubs’ dream run at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup is still alive after a gritty 1–0 win over Senegal in the Round of 32.
Playing at Aspire Zone in Qatar, the Cubs edged the Young Lions of Teranga thanks to Abubakali Walusimbi’s 15th-minute thunderbolt from outside the box, a strike that settled the contest and sent Uganda through.
Fresh off their famous win over France, the Cubs came into the match full of belief. Coach Brian Ssenyondo kept faith in the same starting XI, and the boys responded with another mature, disciplined performance. Walusimbi’s goal came after good buildup play through Brian Ijara and captain Hamuza Ssengooba, who set him up perfectly.
From then on, it was a test of character. Senegal piled on pressure, but goalkeeper Edrisah Waibi produced save after save, earning himself Man of the Match. Uganda also had to deal with the loss of skipper Ssengooba after a head injury.
Late drama followed a Senegal penalty shout waved off after review, and a stoppage-time equalizer ruled out for offside but the Cubs held firm.
With the 1–0 win, Uganda marches into the Round of 16, where they await the winner between Germany and Burkina Faso.
