The Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, concluded their preparations for the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship with a 3-3 draw against Ethiopia in an international friendly played on Thursday morning.
Ethiopia made a strong start to the match and scored in the 1st and 8th minutes through Liday Eaysu and Mairhat Aeyel. Uganda responded in the 21st minute when Joan Namakula pulled one back before Martha Babirye levelled the contest with a well-taken free kick. Liday Eaysu then struck again to restore Ethiopia’s lead as the hosts went into the break leading 3-2.
In the second half, Teen Cranes head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes introduced several changes as Uganda pushed for an equaliser. The pressure eventually paid off in added time when Flavia Yagala found the back of the net to secure a 3-3 draw.
The Teen Cranes contingent will depart Ethiopia for Dar es Salaam later in the day.
Uganda has been drawn in Group B alongside South Sudan, Zanzibar, and Djibouti.
Uganda fixtures at the CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship 2026 are as follows: Uganda vs Djibouti on 14 June 2026 at Azam Complex Stadium at 4:00 PM EAT. Zanzibar vs Uganda on 16 June 2026 at KMC Stadium at 1:00 PM EAT. Uganda vs South Sudan on 18 June 2026 at KMC Stadium at 4:00 PM EAT.
The starting XI was Adam Mayimuna Namuwaya GK, Phionah Arach, Jovia Nakirya, Joan Namakul, Vicky Atyeronimungu (C), Lydia Nameseruka, Brenda Nassaka, Justine Ayerango, Shadia Nabirye, Immaculate Acen and Martha Babirye.
The substitutes were Sharifah Namutebi Kizito Gk, Ritah Nambuusi Anitah, Tracy Nabalanzi, Grace Kawino, Nakalema Rashidah, Nantege Tahia, Angel Gerevans Dominic, Cynthia Kirenga and Yagala Flavia.
