Zambia U17 male football team make history, qualify for first FIFA World cup after 2-1 win over Uganda

Zambia’s U17 Men’s National Team has made history by qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup for the first time, following a thrilling 2-1 victory over Uganda at the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.

The win also secures the young Chipolopolo a spot in the quarterfinals of the tournament, where they will face Burkina Faso.

The match was tightly contested, with both sides level at 1-1 until late in the second half.

Zambia was awarded a penalty in the 65th minute after captain Jonathan Kalimina was brought down in the box.

Billy Daka’s initial spot-kick was saved by Uganda goalkeeper Adrian Mukwanga in the 67th minute.

However, Daka redeemed himself in the 86th minute, scoring from a superb Abel Nyirongo chest assist to seal the win.

Earlier, Uganda had created chances of their own, including a blocked free-kick from skipper Richard Okello in the 76th minute, but could not find the equalizer.

Zambia now looks ahead to their quarterfinal clash with Burkina Faso, carrying the hopes of a nation and the pride of a first-ever World Cup berth.

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