Uganda Cubs earned a 2-2 stalemate against Cote d'Ivoire on Saturday in Morocco's AFCON U-17 Championship, a result that sustains their bid for a World Cup ticket.
The West Africans drew first blood through Koudougnon Drebo, forcing the Ugandan side to chase the game. Henry Muhoozi answered with a fine finish to level the score, but Souleyman Kone restored the lead for Cote d'Ivoire before the final whistle.
With minutes ticking, Arafat Ibanda stepped up and slotted a well‑taken penalty, sealing a dramatic equaliser. The late‑late strike meant the Cubs walked away with a point, crucial in the tightly contested group.
How did the Uganda Cubs keep their World Cup hopes alive?
By refusing to accept a deficit twice, the Cubs showed resilience. Muhoozi's early response and Ibanda's composure from the spot turned a losing position into a point‑gain. In a tournament where every point can dictate who advances to the FIFA U‑17 World Cup, that draw is more than a consolation – it’s a lifeline.
What does the 2-2 draw mean for Uganda's group standing?
The single point puts Uganda in the hunt, but they still need a win in the final group fixture to guarantee progression. Their rivals now sit tighter on the table, and the Cubs must capitalize on the momentum forged by the comeback.
Can Uganda clinch World Cup qualification after this result?
Yes, if they win their next match and other results swing in their favour, the points from this draw could be the deciding factor. The team has shown they can bounce back, so the window remains open.
The late penalty will be remembered as the moment the Cubs refused to bow out. Fans left the stadium chanting, hopeful that the next game will deliver the victory needed to book a place at the FIFA U‑17 World Cup.
Source: Kawowo Sports
