The Uganda U-17 nationwide crew will look to take one other main step towards FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification once they face Cameroon in a vital 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 formidable 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 aspect however expressed perception within the crew’s preparation and mentality.
“We all know Cameroon are a robust soccer nation with nice historical past at this stage, so we count on a troublesome match,” Kingston stated.
“Nevertheless, the victory in our first sport gave the gamers confidence and perception. We at the moment are absolutely targeted on Cameroon and making ready effectively to execute our sport plan.”
Cameroon will enter the match underneath strain after shedding 2-0 to Ivory Coast of their opening fixture and will probably 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 strategy that impressed towards DR Congo.
“As a coach, I imagine in controlling matches by way of possession as a result of once you handle the ball effectively, you enhance your possibilities of controlling the sport and reaching constructive outcomes,” he defined.
The previous Ghana worldwide additionally praised the self-discipline and technical high quality inside 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, onerous work and following the sport plan.”
Past ways and coaching classes, the technical bench has additionally targeted on the psychological progress of the gamers by way of particular “character lessons” designed to strengthen unity, resilience and duty inside the crew.
“You’ll be able to have all of the expertise on the earth, however if you’re not mentally prepared, it turns into troublesome to carry out at your greatest,” Kingston famous.
“These classes assist the gamers develop mentally, keep united as a crew 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.
