Bogere Makes History as Uganda Scores First-Ever World Cup Goal

Doha, Qatar — Under the glowing Doha skyline, 17-year-old James Bogere etched his name—and Uganda’s—into football history. In the 25th minute, the young striker calmly slotted home a composed finish that sent Ugandan fans in the stands into rapturous celebration. It was the country’s first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup, a moment destined to live long in national memory.

Playing in their maiden World Cup appearance, the Uganda Cubs showed courage and confidence in their opening match against Canada at the Aspire Zone Complex. Bogere’s strike, born from sharp teamwork and quick movement, reflected the fearless brand of football that has become Uganda’s signature at the youth level.

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“It felt good because I was surprised,” Bogere said with a smile after the match. “I didn’t expect fans to come, but seeing them made me happy. I just want to tell them that next game, we come back stronger.”

For much of the game, Uganda matched Canada stride for stride—disciplined in defence, crisp in passing, and energetic in pressing. A famous victory seemed within reach.

But football, as always, can be unforgiving.

With just two minutes left on the clock, Canada’s Elijah Roche rose highest from a corner to nod home the equaliser. Deep into stoppage time, a defensive lapse gifted Marius Aiyenero a penalty, which he calmly converted to hand Canada a 2–1 comeback win.

As the final whistle blew, Bogere dropped to his knees, tears streaming down his face. The milestone goal had come—but the result slipped away.

“It would have been better if we won the game,” he said quietly. “Yes, I scored, but what matters most is when the team wins. Football is funny—sometimes you are in front, sometimes you fall behind. It is about who takes their chances.”

Despite the heartbreak, Bogere’s moment remains a source of immense pride for Uganda. His maturity, composure, and team-first mindset have already marked him out as one to watch.

Coach Brian Ssenyondo, though disappointed by the late collapse, was full of praise for his young squad.

“It was our maiden game in our maiden tournament,” he reflected. “We played very well up to the 88th minute when we conceded two goals from set pieces. We didn’t manage the game well at the end, but I believe we lost honourably. We still have two games to go, and our target remains to come out of the group.”

Ssenyondo also reserved special appreciation for the Ugandan fans who filled the stadium with drums, flags, and chants that echoed long after the final whistle.

“The support was unbelievable,” he said. “Even after the game, they kept clapping and encouraging the boys. I ask them to come back and support us in the next match.”

Though victory slipped through their fingers, Uganda’s debut on the global stage was far from a loss in spirit. Bogere’s goal symbolised a new dawn for Ugandan football—a glimpse of a nation ready to stand tall among the world’s best.

The Uganda Cubs will now regroup ahead of their second group-stage match on Saturday, November 8, once again at the Aspire Complex, Pitch Eight, with kickoff set for 3:30 PM.

As Bogere promised with quiet determination:“We will come back stronger.”

Credit: FUFA