2026 WAFCON Qualifier outcome
The Crested Cranes took a major step towards WAFCON 2026 qualification with a vital 2-0 victory over Ethiopia’s Lucy at Nakivubo Stadium.
The win was anchored by a masterful efficiency from Zaina Namuleme, whose late heroics turned a cagey encounter right into a decisive triumph.
In a match the place clear-cut possibilities have been uncommon, each groups struggled to interrupt one another down within the first half.
Uganda suffered an early setback within the twenty ninth minute when defender Bridget Nabisalu was pressured off as a result of damage, resulting in the introduction of Phiona Nabulime.
Regardless of efforts from Resty Nanziri, Fazila Ikwaput, and Namuleme, the Ethiopian protection held agency, maintaining the sport goalless at halftime.
Uganda intensified their attacking efforts within the second half, with Ikwaput coming closest to scoring, solely to be denied by the Ethiopian goalkeeper.
Head Coach Sheryl Botes opted for a tactical reshuffle, bringing on Resty Kobusobozi and Agnes Nabukenya in a bid to inject contemporary power into the staff.
Ethiopia, too, had their alternatives, however Uganda’s goalkeeper, Ruth Aturo, showcased her brilliance with key saves to maintain the guests at bay.
Simply because the match appeared destined to finish in a stalemate, Namuleme was fouled simply exterior the 18-yard field within the 89th minute.
Demonstrating composure and talent, she stepped up and curled a surprising free kick into the again of the web, sending the house crowd into jubilation.
With 5 minutes of stoppage time added, Ikwaput put the sport past doubt, ending clinically contained in the field to safe a 2-0 win for Uganda.
The outcome offers the Crested Cranes a vital benefit forward of the return leg in Addis Ababa on February 26.
Namuleme’s commanding efficiency, highlighted by her match-winning purpose, was instrumental in Uganda’s victory.
Uganda will put together for the decisive second leg and her brilliance shall be key in guaranteeing Uganda advances to the following qualification spherical.
