Sebastian Fisher scores a hat-trick on his Uganda debut

A Scottish under-17 player has made an impact in Africa: Sebastian Fisher scored three goals in 20 minutes for Uganda after coming off the bench in an 8-0 win over Burundi. Aged 16, he made an immediate impression in the opening Group B match of the CECAFA under-17 qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Fisher’s football journey has taken him from the pitches of Partick Thistle and Scotland’s damp climate to Uganda, whose national team he never imagined representing. The tournament was played at Pelé Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda.

Fisher’s display came in a convincing team performance: Junior Afoyrwoth, Arnold Kayemba, Arafat Ibanda and Nicholas Kawooya also scored for Uganda against Burundi. Uganda went on to finish top of its group and beat Ethiopia 4-0 in the semi-final, securing qualification for the 2027 under-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

Fisher also scored in the final against Somalia. After a 0-0 draw, he converted his penalty in the shootout that gave Uganda the title. He was one of six Ugandan players to score from the spot, while goalkeeper David Dean Ssegirinya saved three Somali penalties.

The international opportunity followed a period of preparation. Fisher and his teammates worked on adapting and chose to represent the country of their maternal ancestors. His mother, Kate, was born in Uganda; his father, former footballer Scott Fisher, saw an opportunity for his sons to wear the country’s shirt. In early 2026, steps were taken with the Ugandan federation to meet the eligibility requirements.

His brother Oliver also represents Uganda, playing as a goalkeeper for the under-20 side. During his first visit, Oliver said: “For me it was a big surprise, but we were very excited and felt very honoured to be here representing the Uganda national team. It is a great honour and we are very happy to have accepted the call-up and to be here.” Fisher, who won his first international trophy, called it an “incredible tournament” and said he hoped more opportunities would follow.