2025 FIFA U17 World Cup | Boys | Round of 16
- Uganda (3) 1-1 (5) Burkina Faso
Uganda’s remarkable fairytale run at the FIFA U17 World Cup ended on Tuesday, but the Cubs bowed out with pride after a spirited fight against Burkina Faso in the round of 16 at Aspire Zone, Pitch 5.
Fresh off their stunning upset over Senegal, the young Ugandans came into the knockout match full of belief.
Burkina Faso were just as confident after eliminating defending champions Germany.
Both sides, however, were missing key players, Uganda without suspended star James Bogere, and the Young Stallions without Ashiraf Loukman Tapsoba and Isma Azelle.
Burkina Faso controlled much of the ball, but Uganda carved out the better chances.
Isima Magala’s powerful header smashed off the post, while Abubakali Walusimbi and Richard Okello forced saves from distance.
Uganda finally struck in the 56th minute when Arafat Nkoola curled in a beautiful finish after neat work from Walusimbi.
But Burkina Faso hit back through substitute Alassana Bagayogo, who chested down a cross and slipped it past Edrisah Waibi.
The match ended 1–1, and coach Brian Ssenyondo brought on goalkeeper Adrian Mukwanga for the shootout.
But the Burkinabe were flawless from the spot, scoring all five penalties. Uganda went down 5–3, with Derrick Ssozi the only player to miss.
The loss ends a brave and inspiring campaign for the Cubs, whose performances won the hearts of fans back home.
Burkina Faso advance to face Italy in the quarterfinals after the Azzurrini edged Uzbekistan 3–2.
