Uganda U17 Women’s National Team, Teen Cranes, delivered a breathtaking performance to annihilate Namibia 10-0 in the first leg of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers first round at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
Thursday’s display was a masterclass, led by the exceptional Captain Agnes Nabukenya, who scored a stunning six goals in the one-sided encounter.
Nabukenya’s Brilliance
From the very first whistle, Nabukenya set the tone, opening the scoring in the 6th minute with a clinical close-range finish.
She quickly established herself as the heartbeat of Uganda’s attack, completing a first-half hat-trick and adding another before the break to give the Teen Cranes a commanding lead.
She continued her scoring spree in the second half, netting two more to take her tally to six for the day, an extraordinary feat that left fans and opponents in awe.
Supporting Cast
While Nabukenya grabbed the headlines, her teammates played their part in the demolition.
Martha Babirye doubled Uganda’s lead in the 11th minute, and Rinah Ariho made it six just before halftime.
Second-half substitute Joan Kizza Namulindwa added a seventh in the 65th minute, and Isabella Blick Kabarozi capped off the riot with an 80th-minute goal.
Tactical Mastery
Coach Sheryl Botes’ tactical adjustments and substitutions highlighted the depth and versatility of the Teen Cranes.
Goalkeeper Sharifah Namutebi, introduced at halftime, ensured Uganda maintained their clean sheet, while Rashidah Nakalema and Joan Kizza Namulindwa injected fresh energy into the attack, with the latter contributing a goal.
Next Challenge
With a massive 10-0 aggregate lead, Uganda heads into Sunday’s return leg at the same venue brimming with confidence.
A place in the second qualification phase against Kenya looks all but secured, and the Teen Cranes have already sent a strong message to their future opponents.
A Star in the Making
The Kawempe Muslim Forward Nabukenya’s performance not only solidified her reputation as a rising star but also underscored her importance to Uganda’s World Cup aspirations.
Her six-goal haul will undoubtedly inspire her teammates and strike fear into the hearts of future opponents.
The Teen Cranes’ emphatic victory is a testament to the bright future of women’s football in Uganda, with players like Nabukenya leading the charge.
Fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
