Uganda U17 Men’s National Football Team, the Cubs, clinched the 2026 CECAFA U17 title after defeating Somalia in the final on Monday in Kigali, Rwanda.

In a closely contested final played at the Kigali Pele Stadium, normal time ended goalless, but Uganda beat the nerves in the tense penalty shootout to win 6-5.

Goalkeeper David Dean Ssegirinya was the hero for Uganda, saving three penalties and was eventually named the best goalkeeper of the tournament.

Skipper Henry Muhozi, Sebastian Fisher, Arnold Kayemba, Nicholas Kawoya, Martin Kayiwa and Junior Ofoyrwoth all converted their takes for Uganda, while Sumaku Mutawakali and Arafat Ibanda were denied.

Muhoozi was named the MVP of the tournament while Arnold Kayemba and Ssegirinya took home the top scorer and goalkeeper gong to complete a clean sweep for Uganda.

With the CECAFA tournament being a qualifier pathway to AFCON U17, Uganda, Somalia and Rwanda, who took bronze, all secured their slots at next year’s edition.