FUFA Women Super League Champions, Lady Doves extended their impressive show at the inaugural CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers on Tuesday with another commendable performance against Tanzanian champions Simba Queens.
The two sides played to a goalless draw in what was an extremely entertaining end to end match that had the sizeable audience watching on the edge of their seats for the entire 90 minutes.
After overwhelming wins in their opening group A fixtures, it was a battle for top spot that the Lady Doves occupied courtesy of a better goal difference. ‘The Believers’ thumped Djiboutian outfit FAD FC 5-0 whereas Simba Queens beat PVP FC from Burundi 4-1.
Lady Doves put up a very spirited team effort to secure a priceless point despite having midfielder Sarah Nakuya sent off in the 74th minute. The defensive midfielder was given marching orders after picking a second bookable offence.
Skipper Daisy Nakaziro made a good account of herself as one of the best shot stoppers at the tournament when she pulled a number of game-defining saves to keep the ‘dream alive’.
Nakaziro is the only goal keeper yet to pick a ball from her net at the competition in Nairobi that has had 22 goals scored in 6 matches.
After the game, Lady Doves coach Fred Musiime was full of praise for his players, lauding them for the spirited performance.
‘I want to thank my players for today’s performance. Of course we would have wanted to take all the three points but are still happy with the point earned. Simba Queens are a strong side and if you observe the two sides, the way our opponents’ players conduct themselves on the ball you can see a difference in the level of maturity. Mine is a predominantly young side but the girls made a good account of themselves.” Musiime remarked in the post match press conference.
‘Every team here is a champion from their country and provides a different challenge. Just like we planned for this game (against Simba Queens) we are going to plan for the next game because we want to win and qualify to the next stage of the competition.’ He added.
The Ugandan representatives will return to action on Friday, 3rd September , to take on PVP FC of Burundi in their final group game at Nyayo Stadium. Lady Doves will need at least a draw to book a berth in semifinals.
