Uganda U17 maintain perfect preparation record with victory over Mali

Uganda U17 continued their impressive preparations for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Mali U17 1-0 in a friendly match in Mohammedia.

The victory came only a day after Uganda had beaten Mozambique 3-1, extending an encouraging run of results ahead of the continental tournament.

Once again, Ibanda Arafat proved decisive for the Ugandan side, scoring the only goal of the match against Mali after already delivering a standout performance in the previous friendly.

Uganda’s young squad has now recorded two victories in two matches during their training camp, scoring four goals and conceding only once.

The results have provided an important confidence boost for the team as preparations intensify before the start of the competition.

Facing Mali represented a significant challenge for the Ugandan players, given the reputation of the West African nation in youth football.

However, the Cubs once again showed discipline and efficiency, continuing the momentum created during their victory against Mozambique.

The friendly against Mali followed a similar pattern to Uganda’s previous outing.

On Thursday, the team had overcome an early setback to defeat Mozambique 3-1 in a lively contest.

After falling behind, Uganda responded strongly and turned the match around with an energetic attacking display.

Arafat played a central role in that comeback, scoring twice and helping his side establish control of the game before eventually securing a comfortable victory.

His performances have quickly turned him into one of the standout figures of Uganda’s preparation campaign.

Against Mali, the striker once again delivered at a crucial moment.

The match itself was far more balanced and tightly contested than the previous encounter with Mozambique.

Both teams approached the game with intensity as they attempted to fine-tune their squads ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Uganda nevertheless managed to maintain their organisation and defensive discipline throughout the match.

Their ability to limit Mali’s attacking opportunities became one of the key factors behind the victory.

At the other end of the pitch, Arafat’s decisive contribution once again separated the two sides.

His goal ensured Uganda completed another successful outing and maintained their perfect record during the training camp.

The back-to-back victories have highlighted the growing confidence within the Ugandan squad ahead of the tournament.

Scoring four goals across two matches while conceding only once reflects both attacking efficiency and defensive stability.

The performances have also demonstrated the team’s ability to adapt to different types of opposition.

Against Mozambique, Uganda showed resilience after conceding first and responded with an attacking display.

Against Mali, they were required to remain patient and disciplined in a tighter encounter before finding the winning moment.

That versatility could prove valuable once the Africa Cup of Nations begins.

Uganda’s preparations have therefore produced encouraging signs for the coaching staff, particularly with several players already showing strong form.

Arafat’s contributions have naturally attracted attention after scoring in consecutive matches.

The forward has now emerged as one of the most influential figures in Uganda’s attacking setup during the preparation phase.

For Mali, the defeat represents a setback, although the friendly still provided an important opportunity to assess the squad before the tournament.

The match allowed both teams to continue refining tactics and evaluating performances under competitive conditions.

Youth tournaments often depend heavily on momentum and confidence, and Uganda appear to be building both at the right moment.

Pre-AFCON U17 Tournament

We wind up preparations with two good results!
Uganda 🇺🇬 3-1 Mozambique 🇲🇿
Uganda 🇺🇬 1-0 Mali 🇲🇱

Thank you Governmemt of Uganda and FUFA for the camp!

Next: AFCON proper next week!#TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 pic.twitter.com/SG3Lu5N0YS

— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) May 7, 2026

The Cubs will now head towards the U17 Africa Cup of Nations encouraged by a strong training camp and a series of positive performances.

Two matches, two wins, four goals scored and only one conceded underline the team’s impressive form before the start of the competition.

Uganda’s young players will hope that momentum can continue once the continental tournament officially begins.