FIFA U-17 World Cup: Uganda Cubs Secure First-Ever Point After Late Drama Against Chile

Uganda Cubs produced a spirited performance to earn a dramatic 1-1 draw against Chile in their second Group K fixture of the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup at Aspire Zone – Pitch 8 on Saturday afternoon.

 Substitute Derick Ssozi’s stoppage-time equalizer ensured the young Cranes picked up their first-ever World Cup point in what was a thrilling and emotionally charged encounter.

Following their narrow 2–1 defeat to Canada in the tournament opener, the Cubs came into the game determined to make amends. 

Brian Ssenyondo’s boys started brightly, showing intent and confidence on the ball and within the opening minutes they  nearly went ahead when striker Shafic Mbabazi’s fierce drive rattled the post, leaving the Chilean goalkeeper Vicente Villegas rooted to the spot.

 The early pressure set the tone for a competitive first half, with Uganda dominating possession and forcing Chile deep into their own half.

However, against the run of play, Chile took the lead late in the first half. A poor clearance by goalkeeper Edrisah Waibi was pounced upon by Chile’s captain and defender Bruno Torres, who rose highest to head home and make it 1–0 in the 43rd minute.

 The goal momentarily silenced the Ugandan bench, but Ssenyondo urged his players to keep pushing, emphasizing composure and patience.

In the second half, Uganda continued to play with energy and determination. Midfielders Ibrahim Ssemugera and Ivan Mugerwa controlled the tempo, while winger Abdul Kimera constantly troubled the Chilean defense with his pace and trickery. 

Chile, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counterattack and almost doubled their advantage when Zidane Yáñez’s audacious lob struck the crossbar midway through the half.

Cubs threw everything forward in search of an equalizer and their  persistence finally paid off in stoppage time when substitute Derick Ssozi reacted quickest to a loose ball from a corner, tapping it past Villegas to send the Ugandan fans into wild celebration.

 It was a moment of redemption for a side that had suffered heartbreak in their opening game, and a testament to their unyielding fighting spirit.

The draw leaves Uganda with one point from two matches, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive. 

They will now face group leaders France in their final group fixture on Tuesday, a match that will define their World Cup journey.