The Uganda Women’s Football Senior National Team, the Crested Cranes, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Morocco in their second international friendly match, played at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
Following a 1-1 draw in the first friendly game last Friday, Uganda failed to replicate their fighting spirit and succumbed to a 3-0 loss on Tuesday night.
Elodie Nakkach, Imane Saoud, and captain Ghizlane Chebbak‘s goals propelled Morocco past Uganda, marking Sheryl Botes‘ first loss as the Crested Cranes head coach.
Nekkach opened the scoring for Morocco with a strike from long range, leaving Uganda goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro helpless in the 8th minute.
In the 27th minute, Imane Saoud doubled Morocco’s lead with a well-crafted team goal. Building from the back, Saoud received a cut-back pass inside the box and calmly slotted the ball home.
Morocco extended their lead just seven minutes into the second half when captain Chebbak, who missed a penalty in the first game, scored to make it 3-0.
What the Crested Cranes coach said
Morocco dominated Uganda throughout the second friendly match, and despite the loss, Uganda head coach Sheryl Botes applauded her team’s efforts against a formidable opponent.
“We played against a very technical and superior side,” Botes acknowledged.
“I’m pleased with how my players are adapting to the technical aspects we’ve been working on. In terms of passing ability, technical skills, and overall, Morocco was the better team, but my girls fought hard to match them, but unfortunately, we couldn’t secure a positive result.”
Botes expressed her satisfaction with the level of competition and reiterated the importance of such matches in their pursuit of their goals.
“We’ve had a very good test, and we need these kinds of games to improve and build a strong team,” concluded Botes optimistically. “We will continue to arrange more challenging friendly matches.”
Starting Lineup for Uganda
- Daisy Nakaziro (GK), Shakirah Nankwanga, Sumaya Komuntale, Bridget Nabisaalu, Shadia Nankya, Joan Nabirye, Phiona Nabbumba, Fauzia Najjemba, Catherine Nagadya, Zaina Nandede, Viola Nambi.
Courtesy Photos
