U-17 AFCON: We are taking things one game at a time – Unganda coach Laryea Kingston after beating DR Congo
Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston says his main ambition is to guide Uganda to the FIFA U17 World Cup as the Young Cubs continue their impressive campaign at the Africa U17 Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The ex-Black Stars winger, who took charge of Uganda’s U17 side earlier this year, has already made an immediate impact after leading the team to qualification for the continental tournament.
Uganda began their Group B campaign in emphatic fashion with a commanding 3-0 victory over DR Congo, boosting hopes of securing a historic place at the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup.
The East Africans will next face Cameroon before taking on Ivory Coast in what promises to be decisive fixtures in the race for qualification.
Speaking to CAF Online, Kingston said reaching the World Cup would represent a major milestone for Ugandan football and the country’s youth development system.
“It would be massive for Ugandan football,” Kingston said.
“For the players, it would be an opportunity to test themselves on the world stage and gain invaluable experience.
“For the country, it would show that the youth development structures are moving in the right direction. We still need to improve our scouting systems and continue identifying the right talent, but I believe we are on the right path.
“At the moment, though, we are taking things one game at a time.”
Kingston, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most talented wingers during his playing days, has earned praise for the discipline and attacking identity he has quickly instilled in the Ugandan side.
Uganda are aiming to make another appearance on the global stage after their historic qualification for the U17 World Cup in Qatar last year, achieved following a play-off victory over Gambia.
For Kingston, qualification would not only mark a personal achievement in his growing coaching career, but also underline Uganda’s emergence as one of Africa’s rising forces in youth football.
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