The Uganda U20 Women’s Football National Team, the Queen Cranes, edged Ethiopia on Tuesday night in their second game of group A of the African Games.
At Cape Coast Stadium, Uganda defeated Ethiopia 2-0 to register their first win of the tournament and boost their chances of progressing to the semifinals.
Captain Catherine Nagadya set the tone early, scoring in just the 10th minute with a clinical finish assisted by Juliet Nalukenge‘s superb pass. Defender Docus Lwalisa doubled the lead with a stunning long-range free kick twenty minutes later.
Despite creating additional chances, Uganda couldn’t capitalize. Notably, Nalukenge failed to convert a close-range opportunity, and Nagadya missed a chance to score or assist on a counter-attack.
Shakirah Nankwaga suffered an injury during the game and was replaced by Krusum Namutebi. Nankwaga is expected to miss the final group match against Ghana on Friday, March 15th, 2024.
Speaking to media after the game, Queen Cranes head coach Sheryl Botes applauded the girls for executing the tactics.
“I’m happy for the victory over strong Ethiopia and I also thank the team for sticking to the game plan throughout,” started Botes
“We have to be clinical in front of the goal, we missed many open chances and we must work on it so that in the next game, we win easily and not regret,” concluded Botes.
Meanwhile, in the Group
With this victory, Uganda needs only a draw against Ghana to secure a coveted semifinal spot. Meanwhile, Ghana secured their own semifinal position with a 2-1 comeback victory over Tanzania.
Aisha Juma Mnunka put Tanzania in the lead but Tracey Twum and Mukurama Abdulai scored to secure a vital victory for Ghana.
For Tanzania to qualify, they require a win over Ethiopia and a Ugandan loss to Ghana in the final group stage match. This would set up a potential head-to-head tiebreaker scenario with the Queen Cranes.
How Uganda Lined up:
Sharon Kaidu (GK), Catherine Wujja, Docus Lwalisa, Phiona Nabulime, Shakirah Nankwanga, Shamusa Najjuma, Latifah Nakasi, Zaina Nandede, Margret Kunihira, Catherine Nagadya, Juliet Nalukenge.
Courtesy Photos
