Uganda’s female national football team, the Crested Cranes took a big step toward qualifying for the next round after beating Ethiopia 2-0 in the first leg of their match played at Nakivubo stadium on Friday evening.
Zainah Namuleme and Fazilah Ikwaput scored late goals to give Uganda a strong advantage before the second leg.
The game started with a setback for Uganda when defender Bridget Nabisalu got injured in the 29th minute and was replaced by Phiona Nabulime.
Before halftime, Resty Nanziri, Ikwaput, and Namuleme all tried to break through Ethiopia’s defense but couldn’t find the net.
In the second half, Uganda pushed harder. Ikwaput came close to scoring but was stopped by Ethiopia’s goalkeeper.
Coach Sheryl Botes made changes after 60 minutes, bringing in Resty Kobusobozi and Agnes Nabukenya to freshen up the team.
Ethiopia also had chances to score, but Uganda’s goalkeeper, Ruth Aturo, made important saves to keep them out.
Just when it looked like the game would end in a draw, Namuleme was fouled outside the box in the 89th minute. She took the free kick and scored a beautiful goal to put Uganda ahead.
In added time, Ikwaput sealed the win with a calm finish inside the box, making it 2-0 for the Crested Cranes.
Uganda will now travel to Addis Ababa for the second leg on February 26. The team with the highest total score after both games will move on to the next round.
Uganda is in a strong position, but Ethiopia will fight hard to turn things around at home.
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