The Uganda U17 National team, The Cubs were crowned champions of the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) CECAFA qualifiers after defeating Somalia 6-5 on penalties in Monday’s final at Kigali Pele Stadium in Rwanda.

The match ended goalless in regulation time, with goalkeeper David Ssegirinya emerging as Uganda’s hero after making crucial saves in the closing stages before stopping three penalties in the shootout.

Uganda’s victory capped an impressive campaign under coach Kingston Laryea, whose team had defeated Ethiopia in the semi-finals to book their place in the final.

Captain Henry Muhoozi, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), expressed delight at leading Uganda to the title and securing qualification for the continental finals.

“We are very proud of ourselves and thank everyone for the support,” Muhoozi said.

Laryea also praised his players for their determination throughout the tournament.

“I am very happy with the players because we worked so hard, topped the group, beat Ethiopia in the semi-finals and now lifted the trophy after winning on penalties,” he said.

Somalia head coach Dadir Amin Ali congratulated his players for reaching the final, describing their campaign as the result of hard work.

“As a coach, I am very proud of my boys because it has been real hard work,” Ali said.

During the shootout, Muhoozi, Sebastian Fisher, Arnold Kayemba, Nicholas Kawoya, Martin Kayiwa and Junior Ofoyrwoth converted their penalties for Uganda, while Sumaku Mutawakali and Arafat Ibanda were denied.

Uganda also swept the individual awards, with Muhoozi named the tournament’s MVP, Kayemba claiming the top scorer award and Ssegirinya taking the best goalkeeper accolade.

Nine teams participated in the qualifiers after Djibouti withdrew shortly before the tournament began.

Uganda, Somalia and Rwanda, who finished third, secured qualification for next year’s U-17 AFCON finals through the CECAFA regional competition.