In a showcase of young talent and fierce determination, the Uganda Cubs displayed remarkable resilience and skill at the 2025 AFCON U-17 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.
Although they narrowly missed out on the title, the tournament was a platform for standout performances, especially from Owen Mukisa, who earned widespread recognition and the prestigious Best Player award.
Owen Mukisa’s presence on the field was nothing short of commanding. His ability to control the midfield, distribute play, and lead by example made him a focal point for Uganda’s efforts throughout the competition.
His leadership qualities and technical skills shone brightly, inspiring his teammates and captivating fans alongside his teammates like Thomas Ogema, Brian Olwa, Lorien Lwesibawa, Nicholas Kawooya, Ismail Fahad and many others.
Throughout the qualifiers, Mukisa demonstrated offensive prowess with scoring four goals, two shy off Ogema (6), including two braces, and contributed significantly to Uganda’s overall performance.
The maturity in his performances have already marked him as one of Africa’s most promising young talents, and many are eager to see how his career unfolds.
The tournament also highlighted the talents of other young stars, with awards recognizing skill, sportsmanship, and leadership across the region.
Awards
Team Awards
- Fair Play Award – Ethiopia
- Gold Medalists – Tanzania
- Silver Medalists – Uganda
- Bronze Medalists – Ethiopia
Individual Awards
- Best Goalkeeper – Haji Abdallah (Tanzania)
- Top Scorers – Luqman Mbalasalu (Tanzania), Dawit Kasaw Yirdaw (Ethiopia)
- Best Player – Owen Mukisa (Uganda)
- Best Coach – Elieneza Nicolaus Nsangazelu (Tanzania)
Despite the outcome, the spirit of competition and camaraderie prevailed, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent for the future of African football.
Uganda Cubs run at the tournament
Group B
- 4-0 Vs Burundi (W)
- 9-0 Vs Sudan (W)
- 1-2 Vs Tanzania (L)
- 6-0 Vs Djibouti (W)
Semifinal
- 3-0 Vs Ethiopia (W)
Final
- 2-3 Vs Tanzania (L)
Players that represented Uganda
Goalkeepers
Expedito Adrian Ssemugera (Soltilo Bright Stars Junior Team), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC SA), Richard Mukisa (NEC Junior Team)
Defenders
Shakur Ngobi (Greenlight Islamic School), Travor Mubiru (Vipers Junior Team), Abud Shafikie Ukasha (KCCA FC SA), Ibrahim Waita (Buddo SS), Joseph Langol (Paorinher Soccer Academy), Eze Kombi (Amus College School), Enock Ssali Mwesigwa (Volf Soccer Academy), Hilal Ajiga (Amus College School)
Midfielders
Henry Muhoozi (Amus College School), Arnold Kayemba (El Cambio), Ashraf Kyakuwa (Vipers Junior Team), Abdul Shakur Babi (Buddo SS), Lorian Kisakye Lwesibawa (Rays of Grace), Nicholas Kawooya (Buddo SS), Musa Ssuna (Amus College), Brian Olwa (Edgars Youth Program)
Forwards
Ismail Fahad (KCCA FC), Owen Mukisa (Seth Soccer Academy), Eric Isabirye (Rays of Grace), Thomas Ogema (KCCA FC)
