Uganda’s Teen Cranes will face Kenya in the semifinals of the CECAFA U17 Women’s Championship on Sunday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with a place in the final at stake.
The Teen Cranes have been one of the tournament’s standout teams, winning all three of their group matches to finish top of Group A with nine points. Their impressive run has raised hopes of reaching the final and challenging for the title.
Standing in their way are regional rivals Kenya, who finished second in Group B with seven points. Kenya began their campaign with a 6-0 win over Somalia before drawing 1-1 with hosts Tanzania.
The Junior Starlets were involved in a controversial match against Sudan that was abandoned after 56 minutes while Kenya led 16-0. Following consultations with CAF, the CECAFA organising committee awarded Kenya a 3-0 victory and three points.
That result ensured Kenya finished level on points with Tanzania, although the hosts claimed top spot in the group on goal difference.
The semifinal promises to be a stern test for Uganda, whose attack and defensive organisation have been key to their perfect group-stage record. Kenya, meanwhile, have also shown their quality and will be equally determined to secure a place in the final.
In the other semifinal, hosts Tanzania will face South Sudan as the race for regional glory enters its decisive stage.
