African Games: Queen Cranes Pick First Victory

Tuesday, March 12
•Uganda 2-0 Ethiopia

Uganda U20 Women’s national team, the Queen Cranes, marked a significant moment in their journey at the African Games 2023 in Ghana by securing their first victory.

Facing off against Ethiopia at Cape Coast Stadium on Tuesday, the Queen Cranes triumphed with a 2-0 win over their opponents.

Captain Catherine Nagadya and left-back Docus Lwalisa emerged as the heroes of the match, each contributing a goal during the first half of the game.

The Queen Cranes had previously faced Tanzania in their opening match, resulting in a 1-1 draw last Saturday.

The match against Ethiopia showcased Uganda’s prowess from the very beginning, as they swiftly took the lead within the first ten minutes of the game.

Nagadya seized an opportunity from close range after a precise pass from teammate Nalukenge to get the opener.

Not long after, Lwalisa extended Uganda’s lead with an impressive free kick in the 29th minute, leaving Ethiopia’s goalkeeper Genet Ermiyas Iltro helpless as the ball found its way into the net.

Despite a valiant effort, Lwalisa narrowly missed securing her second goal with a powerful strike that struck the crossbar.

With this significant victory, Uganda now stands at four points in two games. Their next challenge awaits them as they prepare to face the host nation, Ghana, in their final group stage match scheduled for Friday.

Uganda U20 Players Used

Starting XI – Sharon Kaidu, Catherine Wujja, Docus Lwalisa, Phionah Nabulime, Shakirah Nankwanga, Krusum Namutebi, Latifah Nakasi, Shamusa Najjuma, Catherine Nagadya, Juliet Nakukenge, Margret Kunihira, Zainah Nandede

Substitutes – Esther Akujo (GK), Cecilia Kamuli (GK), Patricia Akiror, Harima Kanyago, Immaculate Kizza, Krusum Namutebi, Shakirah Nalugya, Claire Hilder Kebirungi, Sumaya Nabuto