soccer 24 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Teen Cranes Secure Cecafa Title Defence Following Strong Preparation
The Uganda U-17 women's football team, known as the Teen Cranes, successfully defended their Cecafa U-17 Women's Championship title in Tanzania, with coach Sheryl Botes crediting rigorous preparation for their triumph. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/botes-lauds-preps-as-teen-cranes-defend-cecafa-title-5507366
Uganda’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Teen Cranes, have successfully retained their Cecafa U-17 Women’s Championship title. Coach Sheryl Botes highlighted the extensive preparation as the cornerstone of their victory in the tournament held in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
The final match saw Uganda defeat the host nation, Tanzania, by a convincing 3-0. Striker Justine Ayerango and Brenda Nassaka scored in the first half, with Flavia Yagala adding a third goal shortly after halftime. This win builds on Uganda’s previous triumph in the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2019.
Coach Botes praised her team’s tactical discipline and learning, noting, “Tanzania overloaded the midfield but the girls showed they have learnt a lot in the past weeks.” She emphasized the structured approach to their play, from throw-ins to corner kicks, which was evident in their dominant performances throughout the competition.
Uganda’s journey to the final included decisive victories in the group stages against Somalia (13-0), Zanzibar (3-0), and South Sudan (4-0), followed by a 3-0 win over Kenya in the semifinals. The team’s strong showing was a continuation of their efforts in the Fifa U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, where they demonstrated promise despite a narrow elimination.
Individual accolades also reflected Uganda’s success. Shadia Nabirye was named the Most Valuable Player, contributing seven goals to the team’s total of 26 goals scored across five matches. Goalkeeper Mayimuna Namuwaya was recognized as the best goalkeeper, notably keeping a clean sheet in all five games. Justine Ayerango found success in a winger role, while Flavia Yagala emerged as a standout player in midfield.
The comprehensive preparation, including a friendly match against Ethiopia, instilled the confidence and tactical awareness needed for such a commanding performance.