Crested Cranes set for CECAFA title defence as Coach Botes rallies young talent

CECAFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP

Uganda’s Fixtures

June 12
Uganda v Burundi 4pm

June 14
South Sudan v Uganda 7pm

June 17
 Kenya v Uganda 7pm

June 19
Uganda vs Tanzania 7pm

Sheryl Botes, head coach of the Uganda Women’s National Football Team, the Crested Cranes, is confident in her players as they  head to Tanzania for the CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship, starting Thursday, June 12.

The team wrapped up their final training session on Tuesday morning, June 10, at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, before taking off in the afternoon from Entebbe International Airport with Uganda Airlines.

Before their departure, Coach Botes shared her excitement about the young players who are joining the squad for the first time.

“I can’t wait to see Jovia Nakagolo score goals in Tanzania. It’s her first time on the national team, and I’m really excited,” Botes said.

The Crested Cranes went into residential camp at FUFA Hotel in Kisaasi on Sunday, June 8, and had just two days of intense training before leaving.

 “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Celebrate your teammates’ successes and lift them up when they fall short,” she added.

The final squad named by Botes includes 20 players, blending experienced stars with young talents.

Most of the squad plays in the local league, with only two foreign-based players:Margret Kunihira and Ruth Aturo.

There were a couple of last-minute changes to the squad.Resty Kobusobozi, who has exams on June 14, was replaced by Asiimwe Zida.Goalie Nulu Nakyaze Babirye was replaced by the more seasoned Ruth Aturo

Young forward Sylvia Kabene is one to watch, but veterans like team captain Shamirah Nalugya, Zainah Nandede, and goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro will also be crucial for Uganda’s chances.

The CECAFA Women’s Championship will feature a round-robin format at the Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam, with Uganda competing against Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, and Kenya.

Uganda’s schedule for the championship will start on June 12, as they take on Burundi at 4pm.

Uganda aims to defend the title they clinched in 2022, beating Burundi 3–1 in the final, thanks to two goals from Sandra Nabweteme and one from Fazila Ikwaput.

Full Squad

Goalkeepers
Daisy Nakaziro, Lillian Nakiirya, Ruth Aturo

Defenders
Desire Katisi Natooro,Jamilah Nabulime,
Hasifah Namboozo,Jolly Kobusinge,Docas Lwalisa,Zainah Nandede,Esther Namusoke.

Midfielders
Nankwanga Shakirah,Shamirah Nalugya,
Zaina Namuleme,Brenda Munyana,
Sumayah Nabuto,Margaret Kunihira, Asiimwe Zida

Forwards:
Latifah Nakasi,Sylvia Kabene,Jovia Nakagolo