The Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, completed the group stage of the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship with a commanding 4-0 victory over South Sudan on Thursday to finish top of Group B with a maximum nine points.
Coming into the match level on six points with South Sudan, Uganda produced another dominant display to maintain their perfect record in the competition. The Teen Cranes are the only team to have completed the group stage without dropping a point and are yet to concede a goal.
Shadia Nabirye and Justine Ayerango each scored a brace as Uganda secured a comfortable victory and booked a semi-final meeting with Kenya, who finished second in Group A. The semi-final will be played on 21 June 2026 at KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Speaking after the match, Teen Cranes head coach Sheryl Botes praised her players for executing the game plan against a physically strong South Sudan side.
‘It was very important for us to win today. We knew South Sudan had height and physicality and had been scoring goals from set pieces and corners. We had to manage that threat well, and I am very happy with the performance of the team,’ said Botes.
Teen Cranes central defender Jovia Nakirya credited the team’s collective effort, particularly the defensive unit, for maintaining another clean sheet.
‘I thank my teammates, especially the defenders and our goalkeeper, for the work done. We shall not lower our guard because our mission is to bring the trophy back home,’ Nakirya stated.
Uganda starting XI: Sharifah Namutebi Kizito (GK), Ritah Nambuusi, Anitah, Tahia Nantege, Jovia Nakirya, Vicky Atyeronimungu, Lydia Namaseruka, Yagala Flavia, Justine Ayerango, Shadia Nabirye (C), Brenda Nassaka and Tracy Nabalanzi.
Substitutes: Adam Mayimuna Namuwaya (GK), Angel Gerevans Dominick, Grace Kawiino, Rashidah Nakalema, Cynthia Kirenga, Phionah Arach, Martha Babirye, Immaculate Acen and Joan Namakula.
