Uganda’s hopes of qualifying for the 2024 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) came to an end on Tuesday night after a 1-1 draw with Algeria in the second leg of their first-round qualifier.
Algeria had won the first leg 2-1 in Uganda, giving them a 3-2 aggregate advantage.
Despite being determined to qualify for WAFCON for the second time in a row, the Crested Cranes found themselves behind after just three minutes when veteran Naima Bouhenni headed Algeria into the lead .
Bouhani headed home from a long-range cross, leaving Uganda goalkeeper Vanessa Karungi with no chance.
Algeria continued to dominate possession for the rest of the first half, but Uganda managed to hold on to go into the break trailing just 1-0.
In the second half, coach Ayub Khalifah introduced Fazila Ikwaput, Catherine Nagadya and Margret Kunihira replacing Hasifah Nassuna, Joanita Ainembabazi and Sandra Nabweteme respectively, to hunt for goals.
His changes paid off in the 66th minute when Fauzia Najjemba after being fouled in the area stepped up and converted the resulting penalty to equalize.
Uganda tried to find a winning goal in the remaining minutes, but Algeria defended well to secure a place in the next round of qualifying.
Algeria will now face Burundi in the second round, while Uganda will shift their focus to the 2024 Paris Olympics qualifiers.
Courtesy Photos
