The Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, secured a place in the final of the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship with a convincing 3-0 victory over Kenya on Sunday at KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Uganda made an excellent start to the contest and took the lead in the seventh minute through in-form forward Shadia Nabirye. The goal continued her impressive scoring run in the tournament and strengthened her position in the race for the Golden Boot award.
The Teen Cranes doubled their advantage five minutes before the interval when Immaculate Acen found the back of the net to give Uganda a deserved 2-0 lead at half-time.
Kenya returned for the second half with renewed determination and made several changes in an effort to get back into the match. However, the Teen Cranes remained organised and disciplined, particularly in midfield, as they restricted Kenya’s possession and limited clear scoring opportunities.
Head Coach Sheryl Botes made her only substitution of the match by introducing Cynthia Kirenga for Immaculate Acen as Uganda looked to extend their advantage.
The decisive third goal arrived in stoppage time. Martha Babirye delivered a well-taken corner kick that forced Kenya defender Jael Samiyu to turn the ball into her own net, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 victory for Uganda.
Following the victory, Head Coach Sheryl Botes thanked Ugandans for their continued support throughout the tournament.
‘We are very happy about today’s win. We knew playing against Kenya would be very difficult. I want to thank the people of Uganda for the support and FUFA for giving us the opportunity to participate in this CECAFA tournament,’ Botes said.
The Teen Cranes will now face hosts Tanzania in the final on Monday, 23 June 2026, as they seek to be crowned champions of the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship.
Uganda Starting XI:
Adam Mayimuna Namuwaya (GK), Phionah Arachi, Jovia Nakirya, Martha Babirye, Vicky Atyeronimungu, Lydia Namaseruka, Brenda Nassaka, Flavia Yagala, Justine Ayerango (C), Shadia Nabirye and Immaculate Acen.
