Uganda’s U-20 Women’s national team, the Queen Cranes, secured a place in the next round of the FIFA U-20 World Cup African Qualifiers after completing a double victory over Namibia with a 2-0 win at FUFA Kadiba Stadium in Mengo on Monday evening.
The result gave Uganda a commanding 5-0 aggregate triumph, having already established control with a 3-0 away win in the first leg last week. The young Cranes will now wait to face the winner between Burundi and Zambia in the second round as they look forward to playing their first-ever World Cup tournament next year in Poland.
From the start, Uganda showed their intent. Forward Sylvia Kabene nearly scored in the opening minutes, forcing Namibian goalkeeper Tunga Sylvia into an early save. Even though Namibia fought hard, the breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Peace Muduwa fired home to put the hosts ahead.
The Queen Cranes doubled their lead just before halftime. Kabene’s shot was first saved by the Namibian goalkeeper, but Muduwa quickly reacted to set up Agnes Nabukenya, who finished calmly in the 40th minute to make it 2-0.
Although Namibia attempted to respond with a change before the break, Uganda remained firmly in control as the teams headed into halftime. In the second half, Coach Sheryl Botes made tactical changes by introducing fresh legs to keep the momentum.
They included Juliet Adeke, Zabinah Nambozo, Monica Nanono, and Esther Nangendo, all coming on to add energy and depth. Though the Queen Cranes pressed for a third goal, Namibia’s defense held firm, denying the hosts further scoring opportunities.
The game eventually ended 2-0, with Uganda keeping a clean sheet and sealing a convincing overall victory across both legs. The qualification marks another milestone for the Queen Cranes, who continue to showcase their growing strength in women’s football on the continent.
With a solid defensive display and sharp finishing up front, Uganda’s U20 side heads confidently into the next round, where stuffer challenges are expected.
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