Uganda and Ivory Coast both secured victories in their opening matches of the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Uganda defeated South Sudan 2-0 in Group A, while Ivory Coast beat the Central African Republic 3-0 in Group B.
In Group A, Uganda took the lead in the 24th minute through a goal from James Mwebe, and doubled their advantage in the 68th minute with a strike from Ivan Irinimbabazi. The win puts Uganda level on points with Morocco, who also won their opening match against Zambia.
Ivory Coast's victory in Group B was powered by a brace from captain Abdoulaye TraorΓ©, who scored in the 15th and 52nd minutes, and a third goal from substitute Mohamed KonΓ© in the 78th minute. The Ivorians now lead Group B with three points.
The tournament, which features 12 teams divided into three groups, continues with more matches on Monday. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarterfinals.
