Sports

James Bogere Sends Uganda to First-Ever FIFA World Cup

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2025

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The Uganda U17 national team, the Cubs, have made history by becoming the first Ugandan football team ever to qualify for a FIFA World Cup tournament after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over The Gambia in a high-stakes playoff in Morocco.

In a thrilling match held at Stade El Abdi in El Jadida, Morocco, Uganda overcame an early setback to secure the win that booked their place at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. Gambia’s Ahmed Njundu Kanyi struck in the first minute to give the Baby Scorpions an early lead, but Uganda responded brilliantly.

Forward James Bogere was the day’s hero, netting a first-half brace in the 13th and 33rd minutes to flip the game in Uganda’s favour.

His clinical finishing and relentless work ethic led to a spirited display from the young Cubs, who showed impressive attacking flair and tactical discipline.

In the second half, Uganda held firm under pressure, with Coach Brian Ssenyondo’s side displaying remarkable composure and defensive resilience to protect their lead until the final whistle.

This playoff fixture was created after CAF received an additional qualification slot to the U17 World Cup.

It pitted the two third-placed teams in group A and C, respectively, from the 2025 U17 AFCON Uganda and Gambia against each other in a winner-takes-all clash for the first two of Africa’s remaining ticket to Qatar.

With this monumental victory, Uganda has not only secured a spot at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup but also etched their name in the annals of the country’s sporting history.

This marks Uganda’s first-ever qualification for a World Cup tournament at any age level.

The result is a major milestone for Ugandan football and a testament to the growing development of youth football structures in the country. The Cubs’ achievement will undoubtedly inspire future generations and elevate Uganda’s profile on the global stage.

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Sports

2025 Uganda Cup Final to be Held at Kadiba Stadium

Published

2 days ago

April 28, 2025

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Stanbic Uganda Cup final to be held at Kadiba stadium

The semi-final draw for the 51st Stanbic Uganda Cup was conducted on Monday, 28th April 2025, at the Kampala Serena Hotel, confirming exciting matchups and the venue for the final.

Holders Kitara FC will face Vipers SC in the first semi-final, with the opening leg to be played at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. Meanwhile, ten-time winners Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC will host FUFA Big League side Kataka FC in their first encounter.

The first legs of the semi-finals are scheduled for 3rd and 4th May 2025, while the return legs will be played on the 17th and 18th May 2025.

The grand final will be staged at the newly opened Kadiba Stadium, adding extra excitement to this year’s prestigious tournament, which has been held since 1971.

The draw was attended by dignitaries, including Stanbic Bank Sponsorship Manager Isaac Ajiji, FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyinji, and FUFA Competitions Director Hajati Aisha Nalule.

“As title sponsors, we are excited that the competition is getting tougher and more competitive. We urge everyone to watch out for the exciting giveaways,” said Isaac Ajiji.

Hon. Nakiwala thanked everyone who has been involved, stating, “I wish to thank the fans, sponsors, and teams that started with 369 entrants, to now have four semi-finalists. I also thank the Government of Uganda for supporting the idea of the FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim in the construction of the FUFA-owned stadium, Kadiba. It will be the venue for the final.”

The FUFA Competitions Director, Hajati Aisha Nalule, echoed that if teams are tied by goals at the end of the return leg match, the away goals rule shall apply, and if teams are still tied, spot kicks shall be applied to determine the winner. There shall be no extra time.

Among the club representatives at the draw were Jackson Magera (KCCA FC head coach), Godfrey Awachango (Kataka FC head coach), and Wasswa Bbosa (Kitara FC head coach).

KCCA coach Magera expressed readiness ahead of facing Kataka, acknowledging their giant-killing reputation:

“We don’t underrate Kataka FC because it is not easy to reach the semi-final stage. They eliminated UPL teams URA FC and Police FC, but we are going to be ready for them.”

Kitara’s coach, Wasswa Bbosa, is equally confident:

“Vipers is a strong side, but Kitara has shown strength too. I promise our fans that we shall fight hard to play in the finals.”

Godfrey Awachango, coach of Kataka, also shared optimism:

“Playing away first gives us the chance to finish the job at our home in Mbale. We are ready.”

At the quarter-final stage, Kitara edged BUL FC 1-0 in a heated contest that saw three red cards, with Arthur Kiggundu scoring the decisive goal. Vipers eliminated SC Villa 1-0 with a dramatic late header from substitute Milton Karisa.

Kataka stunned Police FC 3-0 on penalties after a goalless draw in normal time during their quarter-final match. Earlier, in the round of 16, Kataka had also knocked out top-tier side URA FC via penalties after a 1-1 draw at the Hamz Stadium.