The Uganda U17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, have advanced to the second round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after a 6-1 aggregate victory over Zimbabwe.
Uganda will now face Kenya, who eliminated Namibia with a 7-1 aggregate win, in a second-round encounter scheduled for the end of May 2026.
First leg: Uganda take control away in Zimbabwe
Uganda laid a strong foundation in the first leg played in Zimbabwe, producing a disciplined and dominant performance to secure a crucial away advantage.
The Teen Cranes started with intensity and quickly established control through sustained possession and attacking pressure. Their early dominance was rewarded in the 17th minute when Immaculate Achen finished calmly to open the scoring after a spell of sustained pressure in the Zimbabwe half.
Uganda doubled their advantage later in the half when Lydia Nameseruka added a second goal, giving the visitors a deserved lead heading into the return leg.
Second leg: Teen Cranes complete qualification in Kadiba
Uganda carried their advantage into the second leg and managed the return fixture with authority at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba.
The Teen Cranes remained organised and composed throughout, ensuring control of the tie as they sealed qualification to the second round.
Uganda’s second-leg goals came through a confident and clinical attacking display. Brendah Nassaka opened the scoring in the 10th minute, before Immaculate Achen doubled the lead in the 34th minute. Giovanna Aketogwanga extended the advantage in the 43rd minute to put Uganda firmly in control at half-time. Substitute Oseko Terry Moraa completed the scoring in the 85th minute after coming off the bench to seal a 4-1 victory on the day and a 6-1 aggregate triumph.
Kenya await in second round
Uganda now turn attention to Kenya in the second round of the qualifiers.
Kenya secured their place after a convincing 7-1 aggregate victory over Namibia, setting up a competitive East African clash.
The second round will be played within the FIFA international window, with the first leg scheduled for 22–24 May 2026 and the second leg for 29–31 May 2026.
The winner will move a step closer to the third and last round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
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