Uganda Kobs Withdrawn from AFCON U-23 Qualifiers as Government Prioritises Cranes
Uganda’s U-23 national team, the Kobs, have been withdrawn from the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations U-23 qualifiers, in a decision that leaves another generation of Ugandan footballers without a chance to compete for continental qualification.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) confirmed that Uganda was scheduled to face Ethiopia over two legs between 20 September and 6 October 2026.
FUFA says the decision has been taken after the Government prioritised funding for the Uganda Cranes’ preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.
Although painful, FUFA says making the decision now is more practical than waiting until later, given the financial demands surrounding the Cranes’ preparations for the continental showpiece.
The withdrawal particularly affects players from the previous generation of the Uganda U-20 team, who had progressed into the U-23 setup with hopes of making their mark on the international stage.
More national teams face crucial decisions
The Kobs’ withdrawal comes at a time when Uganda has several national teams preparing for major international assignments.
FUFA says further details regarding the participation of the other teams will be provided as engagements with Government continue.
Among the teams whose programmes are being reviewed are the Uganda Cubs, who are due to feature at the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar from 19 November to 13 December, as well as the CECAFA U-17 AFCON qualifiers in Kigali scheduled for October.
The Uganda Rhinos are also lined up for the inaugural U-15 FIFA World Cup in Azerbaijan from 22 to 31 October.
At U-20 level, the Uganda Hippos are expected to compete in the AFCON U-20 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers in Tanzania from 16 to 30 September, while the Sand Cranes are scheduled for the AFCON Beach Soccer qualifiers between 9 and 18 October.
The Crested Cranes also have a major assignment, with Olympic qualification matches against Zambia scheduled for 8 to 16 October.
With several national teams demanding financial and logistical support within the same period, the Kobs have become the first casualty of what is shaping up to be a difficult balancing act for Ugandan football.
For the players, however, the decision is a bitter blow. Having progressed through the national youth structures, the U-23 stage represents an important bridge between youth football and the senior national team.
Their withdrawal means this particular Kobs generation will now have to wait for other opportunities to continue their international careers.
FUFA is expected to provide more clarity on the other national teams once discussions with Government are concluded.