Uganda Books U-17 Afcon Slot After Dominant Win Over Ethiopia

Uganda’s U-17 national team, the Uganda Cubs, have qualified for the TotalEnergies Caf U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 after outclassing Ethiopia 3-0 in the semi-finals of the Cecafa Zonal Qualifiers at the Abebe Bikila Stadium on Sunday.

A composed brace from Lorian Lwesibawa and a well-taken finish by Thomas Ogema wrapped up the result, confirming Uganda as one of the three teams that will represent the Cecafa region in next year’s continental tournament in Morocco.

The victory sets up a regional final against Tanzania, who also secured their Afcon ticket after defeating Kenya 3-1 earlier on Sunday.

Uganda, the defending champions, will face Tanzania today at 3:30pm at the Abebe Bikila Stadium, where they hope to retain their regional crown and close the campaign on a strong note.

Head coach Kingston Laryea praised his squad for their discipline and intensity throughout the qualifiers.

“The boys worked hard and now we turn focus to the final against Tanzania on Tuesday,” he said after the win.

Ethiopia and Kenya, both defeated in the semi-finals, will meet earlier in the day to determine the final Cecafa representative for the 2026 U-17 Afcon.

Next year’s tournament will be hosted in Marrakech, Morocco, where the stakes are even higher under the new Fifa format.

The top ten nations at the competition will automatically qualify for the 2026 Fifa U-17 World Cup, giving the Cubs an added incentive as they prepare for the continental stage.