The Uganda U-17 nationwide workforce will look to take one other main step towards FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification after they face Cameroon in an important Group B encounter on the ongoing 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday night.
Uganda heads into the competition stuffed with confidence after a powerful 3-0 victory over DR Congo of their opening match, a consequence that positioned the Cubs among the many early tempo setters within the group.
A second straight win would transfer the East Africans nearer to securing a spot in each the AFCON U-17 quarterfinals and the FIFA U-17 World Cup, with the highest two groups in every group assured qualification.
Talking forward of the decisive conflict, Uganda Cubs head coach Laryea Kingston acknowledged the problem awaiting his facet however expressed perception within the workforce’s preparation and mentality.
“We all know Cameroon are a powerful soccer nation with nice historical past at this degree, so we count on a tough match,” Kingston stated.
“Nonetheless, the victory in our first recreation gave the gamers confidence and perception. We at the moment are totally centered on Cameroon and getting ready properly to execute our recreation plan.”
Cameroon will enter the match beneath stress after dropping 2-0 to Ivory Coast of their opening fixture and can be determined to revive their qualification hopes.
Regardless of the significance of the event, Kingston insists Uganda will stay devoted to their attacking and possession-based method that impressed towards DR Congo.
“As a coach, I imagine in controlling matches by way of possession as a result of whenever you handle the ball properly, you enhance your probabilities of controlling the sport and reaching optimistic outcomes,” he defined.
The previous Ghana worldwide additionally praised the self-discipline and technical high quality throughout the squad, revealing that the gamers have embraced his soccer philosophy because the begin of preparations.
“From the second I arrived, I recognised the standard and potential of Ugandan gamers. The gamers now perceive the significance of self-discipline, arduous work and following the sport plan.”
Past techniques and coaching classes, the technical bench has additionally centered on the psychological development of the gamers by way of particular “character lessons” designed to strengthen unity, resilience and accountability throughout the workforce.
“You possibly can have all of the expertise on the planet, however if you’re not mentally prepared, it turns into tough to carry out at your greatest,” Kingston famous.
“These classes assist the gamers develop mentally, keep united as a workforce and put together for various challenges in soccer and life.”
Uganda will conclude their Group B marketing campaign towards Ivory Coast subsequent Tuesday, however all focus stays firmly on the Cameroon showdown because the Cubs proceed chasing a historic World Cup dream.
