Laryea Kingston credits Uganda’s support for youth football success

GhanaSoccernet · 10/24/2026, 8:26:23 AM

Former Ghana midfielder Laryea Kingston has credited Uganda’s investment in his technical team for helping him achieve success with the country’s youth sides.Kingston, who serves as head coach of Uganda’s junior national teams, has guided the U-17 side, known as the Cubs, to qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup and the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).Uganda secured their World Cup place in May after beating Ghana’s Black Starlets 8-7 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in their play-off at the U-17 AFCON in Morocco.The Cubs added another achievement on Monday, October 19, when they defeated Somalia 6-5 on penalties after a goalless draw in the CECAFA U-17 Championship final in Kigali, Rwanda.Kingston believes the results reflect not only the players’ commitment but also the supportive working environment created by the Uganda Football Federation (FUFA).“We all know that every success, you need a friendly environment, and Uganda have provided a very good friendly environment for me,” he said.The former Black Stars midfielder explained that his appointment was intended to serve a broader purpose than developing young players, with improving the quality of local coaches and contributing to Ugandan football also forming...