Ghana’s Laryea Kingston Leads Uganda to Winning Start at U-17 AFCON
Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston enjoyed a dream start to life at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 after guiding Uganda to a commanding 3-0 victory over DR Congo in their Group B opener.
The ex-Black Starlets coach, who previously handled Ghana’s U-17 national team, has quickly transformed the young Ugandan side into one of the tournament’s early standout performers with an organised and confident display.
Uganda produced a disciplined performance against DR Congo, combining tactical structure with attacking efficiency as they secured all three points in style.
Captain Owen Mukisa played a key role in midfield, helping the East Africans control large spells of the game.
Speaking after the victory, Kingston admitted the occasion initially affected some of his players due to their lack of international experience, but praised their ability to settle into the game and execute the team’s plans.
“It was a very good performance. Every team dreams of winning their first game in a competition because the opening match is always very important,” Kingston told CAFOnline.com.
The former Ghana winger also highlighted the importance of identity and ball control in his coaching philosophy, insisting he wants Uganda to dominate matches through possession and intelligent play.
“As a coach, I believe in dominating play. I believe if you take good care of the ball, you give yourself a better chance of controlling games and getting results,” he said.
Kingston’s impact has already raised hopes of Uganda reaching the knockout stages of the U-17 AFCON for the first time, while also boosting their chances of qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.
The impressive opening result further underlines Kingston’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s promising young coaches after his previous stint with Ghana’s Black Starlets.