Owen Mukisa: Uganda’s U17 rising star dreaming of World Cup history

Uganda U-17 midfielder Owen Mukisa has quickly become one of the standout names at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 after inspiring the Cubs to a commanding 3-0 victory over DR Congo in their opening Group B match.

The talented youngster scored once, provided an assist and was named Man of the Match in a performance that underlined why he is already regarded as one of Uganda’s brightest football prospects.

Mukisa first attracted attention during the CECAFA qualifiers, where his creativity and maturity in midfield helped Uganda secure qualification for the continental finals.

Now performing on one of Africa’s biggest youth football stages, the midfielder says the team remains fully focused on achieving its major objective — reaching the knockout stages and qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.

In this interview, Mukisa speaks about Uganda’s impressive start, the influence of coach Laryea Kingston, handling growing expectations and the dream driving the Cubs forward in Morocco.

CAFOnline.com: You made a brilliant start to the tournament with a goal, an assist and the Man of the Match award against DR Congo. How special was that moment for you?

Owen Mukisa:

It was a very special moment for me and for the whole team. We worked very hard before the tournament and we wanted to begin with a strong performance. Scoring and helping the team win made me very happy, but the most important thing was getting the three points for Uganda.

CAFOnline.com: Uganda looked very organised and confident throughout the match. What do you think was the biggest reason behind the team’s success?

Owen Mukisa:

I think our preparation was the key. The coaches worked a lot with us on tactics and teamwork before the tournament. Every player understood his role on the pitch and we stayed disciplined throughout the game. We also played with confidence and trusted each other.

CAFOnline.com: You were one of the best players during the CECAFA qualifiers and now you have started the AFCON strongly as well. How do you deal with the growing expectations around you?

Owen Mukisa:

I stay calm and focused. I always listen to advice from my coaches, teammates and family. I know there are expectations, but I try not to put too much pressure on myself. I just focus on improving every day and helping the team.

CAFOnline.com: Your movement, creativity and composure stood out during the match. Which areas of your game have you worked hardest on recently?

Owen Mukisa:

I have worked a lot on my movement and transitions, especially how to move quickly between attack and defence. I also focus on improving my decision-making on the ball and staying calm in difficult situations during matches.

CAFOnline.com: Coach Laryea Kingston has brought a lot of experience and leadership to this Uganda side. What impact has he had on the players?

Owen Mukisa:

Coach Kingston has had a very big impact on us. He always motivates the players and gives us confidence. He is positive in the way he speaks to us and he also corrects us when we make mistakes. He wants us to improve every day and believe in ourselves.

CAFOnline.com: Uganda are hoping to reach the knockout stages of the competition for the first time. Does this victory increase belief within the squad?

Owen Mukisa:

Yes, definitely. Before coming to Morocco we already believed in ourselves and had a clear goal of getting out of the group stage and qualifying for the World Cup. Winning the first match has given us even more confidence, but we know there is still a lot of work to do.

CAFOnline.com: At tournaments like this there are always scouts and football fans watching closely. How do you remain focused on the team’s objectives?

Owen Mukisa:

We always remind ourselves that the team comes first. Our coaches have given us principles and rules that help us stay focused. We are concentrating on winning matches and achieving our goals together as a team.

CAFOnline.com: Which footballers do you admire most, both in Africa and internationally?

Owen Mukisa:

I admire many players because I like learning from different styles of football. I enjoy watching midfielders who are creative, calm on the ball and work hard for the team. They inspire me to improve my own game.

CAFOnline.com: Uganda now have momentum after the opening victory. What will be important for the team ahead of the next match?

Owen Mukisa:

The next match is very important for us because another win can move us closer to the knockout stage and World Cup qualification. We need to stay focused, work hard in training and keep the same team spirit and discipline we showed in the first game.

CAFOnline.com: Finally, what message would you like to send to Ugandan fans supporting the Cubs from home and across Africa?

Owen Mukisa:

I want to thank all the Ugandan fans for their support. We feel their encouragement and it motivates us a lot. We ask them to continue believing in us and supporting the Cubs because we are proud to represent Uganda and we will continue fighting for the country.