Crested Cranes head coach Sheryl Botes has affirmed Uganda’s readiness for his or her essential 2026 Ladies’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier in opposition to Ethiopia.
Talking at a pre-match press convention, Botes acknowledged early challenges in camp however emphasised that the crew has regained confidence and is ready to execute key rules in Friday’s match at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
Uganda goals to capitalize on dwelling benefit earlier than touring to Addis Ababa for the return leg on February 26.
“The primary few days in camp had been a bit difficult because the gamers sought to regain confidence. Nevertheless, we have now key rules we need to apply within the match, and I’m assured we are going to execute them effectively,” Stated Botes.
Regardless of her confidence, Botes stays cautious of Ethiopia’s attacking energy, highlighting key gamers equivalent to Loza, Senaf, and Aregash.
“Ethiopia is a powerful offensive crew with a brand new coach and eight gamers from their U-20 aspect that competed on the 2023 African Video games in Ghana. Loza is a standout participant, Senaf has netted 14 objectives of their league, and Aregash is a robust attacking pressure. Their midfield can be extremely cell,” she added.
“The Ethiopia crew I keep in mind from my time in South Africa performed a really possession-based sport, however they tried completely different techniques in opposition to Nigeria within the African Video games. We’ll have to be compact and neutralize Loza, who’s a risk on each ft and possesses nice expertise.”
She famous Ethiopia’s dynamic midfield and possession-based model however burdened the necessity for a compact defensive method to neutralize threats.
“I need to actually ask individuals to return and help. That is the senior crew, the very best gamers shall be displaying their expertise.” she concluded
With Uganda’s main aim being WAFCON qualification, securing a powerful outcome at dwelling shall be essential earlier than a possible next-round conflict in opposition to Tanzania or Equatorial Guinea.
