James Bogere made history on a tough night for the Uganda Cranes. He became the second-youngest player ever to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Uganda started their AFCON 2025 Group C campaign with a 3-1 loss to Tunisia at the Olympic Stadium in Morocco. At just 17 years and 10 months, Bogere’s appearance places him behind only Gabon’s Shiva N’Zigou, who debuted at age 16 in 2000.
This also marks the youngest AFCON appearance for Uganda since 1974, highlighting the teenager’s fast rise. The rainy match, played on Tuesday night, saw Tunisia take early control and score goals.
Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Ellyes Skhiri opened the scoring in the 10th minute, heading in from a well-placed corner by Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri. Tunisia kept pressing and scored again five minutes before halftime.
Mohamed Elyes Achouri of FC Copenhagen tapped in from close range, giving Tunisia a strong 2-0 lead at the break. Uganda tried to regroup after halftime, bringing in Denis Omedi for Jude Ssemugabi. The substitution added new energy, but Tunisia stayed calm and managed the game well, limiting clear chances for the Cranes.
Achouri scored again late in the match to complete his brace and secure the win for Tunisia. However, Uganda did find a consolation goal at the end when Omedi took advantage of some good play involving Allan Okello and Toby Sibbick. His shot deflected heavily on its way into the net.
This match marked Bogere’s AFCON debut, a significant moment in Ugandan football history. Even though the result was disappointing for the Cranes, the teenager’s presence represents a commitment to youth as Uganda aims to build for the future on such a big stage.
Bogere earned his place in the senior squad after a series of standout performances at youth level. He made an impression at the AFCON U17 tournament and the FIFA U17 World Cup, scoring five goals in eight matches. He showcased sharp movement, quick feet, and a natural goal-scoring instinct.
His ability to take on defenders and hold up play set him apart from his peers. These performances led him to a move to Denmark, where his development is expected to speed up in a more challenging professional setting.
His experience in European football, along with his youth international games, positions him as one of Uganda’s most promising attacking talents. In other Group C action, Nigeria narrowly defeated Tanzania 2-1 in Fes.
Tunisia is now at the top of the group with three points and a better goal difference. Nigeria is close behind, while Uganda and Tanzania are still looking for their first points. The Uganda Cranes will return to the field on Saturday to play Tanzania at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, a crucial match for their chances of qualification.
On the same day, Nigeria will face Tunisia at the Fez Stadium in Fes. While the opening night resulted in a loss, Bogere’s historic appearance provided a bright spot for Uganda. It offered a glimpse into a new generation stepping onto Africa’s biggest stage, even under tough circumstances.
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