Njeru, Uganda: The Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team (Teen Cranes) has kicked off preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026 African Qualifiers, with the first training session held at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
The team is gearing up for a crucial two-legged tie against Zimbabwe scheduled for April 11 and 18, with the aggregate winner advancing to the next round.
Head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes expressed satisfaction with the players’ performance in the opening session, highlighting early signs of cohesion and decision-making.
“We are happy to start our first session. The training looked good, with a good combination of play. We are very pleased with what the players can do in terms of decision-making,” Botes said.
The South African tactician noted that the focus will now shift to improving intensity and sharpening execution under pressure.
“We have good players, but we must fine-tune them to perform at higher intensity and make better decisions under pressure.”
Botes emphasized the importance of retaining a core group of players from last year’s campaign, saying it provides a foundation for faster team development.
“We kept most of the players because they already understand our style and have experience together. This helps us build quickly into a competitive team,” she noted.
Zimbabwe test awaits
The coach acknowledged Zimbabwe as a strong and organised opponent but remained confident in her squad’s preparation.
“Zimbabwe is organised and competitive, but we are preparing well to match them, stay disciplined, and take our chances over the two legs,” she said.
The Teen Cranes will continue training in the coming days as the technical team works to assemble a well-balanced and competitive side.
The provisional squad features a blend of local and international-based talent, including midfielder Sophia Musoke, who is based in the United States.
Clubs such as St. Noa Girls, CIA International, and URA Ladies dominate the squad list, reflecting their strong role in youth football development.
Full summoned squad
Goalkeepers: Sharifah K. Namutebi–Kampala Queens (Uganda), Hawah Musa Kizza–CIA International (Uganda), Adam M. Namuwaya–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Hudah Ayikoru–URA Ladies (Uganda), Sophia Nakkazi–Boni Consilii Girls (Uganda)
Defenders: Ritah Anitah Nambuusi–Bukedea Comprehensive (Uganda), Martha Babirye–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Jovia Nakirya–Rines SS (Uganda), Angel Dominic–CIA International (Uganda), Giovanna S. Aketogwanga–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Phiona Arachi–Rines SS (Uganda), Nancy Jude Mandera–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Vicky Atyeronimungu–Amus College (Uganda), Rebecca Wembalazi–Sheema Girls’ School (Uganda)
Midfielders: Sophia Musoke–New England (USA), Zainabu Birungi–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Tracy Nabalonzi–URA Ladies (Uganda), Patience Asanya–El Cambio Academy (Uganda), Jennifer Onyango–CIA International (Uganda), Ester Namatovu–Standard SS (Uganda), Brenda Nassaka–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Lydia Nameseruka–Isra Soccer Academy (Uganda), Justine Ayerango–Rines SS (Uganda), Kevin Nanyunja–Kawempe Muslim Ladies (Uganda), Faith Nalwadda–St. Noa Girls (Uganda), Cynthia Kirenga–URA Ladies FC (Uganda), Grace Kawino–CIA International (Uganda), Immaculate Acen–CIA International (Uganda), Halima Mupyanga–Dream Girls Academy (Uganda), Precious Wori–CIA International (Uganda), Jovia Nakagwa–Highway Secondary School (Uganda), Sheila Mungutimu–Boni Consilii Girls (Uganda), Tahia Nantege–Isra Soccer Academy (Uganda)
Forwards: Shadia Nabirye–Kawempe Muslim Ladies (Uganda), Teopista Keneema–Mwenge Queens (Uganda), Susan Nabyonga–CIA International (Uganda), Terry Mora Oseko–Nkoma Secondary School (Uganda), Samantha Saire Tibiwa–Makerere University (Uganda), Joan Namakula–Isra Soccer Academy (Uganda)
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
