2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup: Uganda advance to knockout stage with 1-0 win over France

Uganda’s U-17 national team secured a historic 1-0 victory over former champions France on Tuesday to advance to the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Heading into their final Group K match, the CECAFA Zonal champions needed nothing short of a win against the experienced French side, and they delivered.

After several early chances, James Bogere struck in the 18th minute to give Uganda the lead at the Aspire Zone Complex in Doha, finishing off a fine assist from skipper Hamuza Ssengoba.

France came close to equalising through Pierre Mounguengue after 31 minutes but the forward failed to hit the target. Christ Batola also missed another opportunity five minutes later.

Uganda nearly doubled their advantage in the 40th minute when Richard Okello’s effort was blocked by the French goalkeeper from close range for a corner.

France pushed harder in the second half, with Tidiane Diarrassouba attempting a left-footed strike from the right side of the box after 68 minutes, but his shot went narrowly wide.

The Cubs stood firm in defence, frustrating the French attackers and holding on to seal a famous win that saw them rewrite history by defeating the 2001 champions.

Despite the defeat, France still topped Group K and progressed to the next stage, alongside Uganda and Canada, who qualified despite a 2-1 loss to Chile in their final group game.

The top two teams from each of the 12 groups, along with the best eight third-placed sides, will progress to the Round of 32. Uganda began their campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Canada before earning a 1-1 draw against Chile in their second group match.

Other nations that have so far secured qualification to the knockout round include Portugal, Argentina, Italy, Brazil, Zambia, Austria, USA, Republic of Ireland, Belgium, Japan, Senegal, Croatia, South Africa, Egypt, Venezuela, Switzerland, Korea Republic, Korea DPR, Morocco, Germany, Colombia, Tunisia, and England.