The Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, successfully defended the CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship title after defeating hosts Tanzania 3-0 in the final played on Tuesday at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The triumph capped a flawless campaign for the Teen Cranes, who won all five matches, scored 26 goals and did not concede a single goal throughout the tournament.
Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes guided Uganda to another regional crown with an impressive display of discipline, attacking quality and defensive resilience.
Uganda took control of the final in the first half through goals from Justine Ayerango in the 38th minute and Brenda Nasaaka four minutes later to establish a commanding 2-0 lead at the break.
The hosts attempted to respond through Yasinta Kaluwa and Bahati Kizanguzi, but Uganda’s defence, marshalled by Jovia Nakirya, stood firm to deny every opportunity.
The Teen Cranes extended their advantage just three minutes into the second half when Flavia Yagala found the back of the net to make it 3-0.
Tanzania continued to search for a breakthrough, but goalkeeper Namuwaya Mayimuna produced another assured performance to preserve Uganda’s perfect defensive record and secure a fifth consecutive clean sheet.
Scenes of celebration followed the final whistle as the Teen Cranes retained the regional title they first won in 2023.
‘I am very happy that the team followed instructions and won all the five matches played in the tournament,’ said Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes after the victory.
The awards ceremony was attended by CECAFA President Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam, CECAFA Executive Committee Member Doris Petra, Tanzania Football Federation President and CAF Executive Committee Member Wallace Karia, and CECAFA Interim Executive Director Jean Seninde.
