DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Uganda’s U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, successfully defended their CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship title after a commanding 3-0 victory over hosts Tanzania in the final played on Tuesday at KMC Stadium.
The victory crowned an outstanding campaign for the Teen Cranes, who won all five matches, scored an impressive 26 goals and conceded none en route to retaining the regional crown.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes, Uganda once again showcased its growing strength in women’s youth football, combining attacking flair with defensive solidity throughout the tournament.
The Teen Cranes took control of the final in the closing stages of the first half. Justine Ayerango opened the scoring in the 38th minute before Brenda Nasaaka doubled Uganda’s advantage four minutes later to hand the visitors a comfortable 2-0 lead at halftime.
Tanzania attempted to fight back through Yasinta Kaluwa and Bahati Kizanguzi, but Uganda’s defence, marshalled by Jovia Nakirya, remained disciplined and resilient to deny the hosts any clear opportunities.
Uganda effectively sealed the contest shortly after the restart when Flavia Yagala found the back of the net in the 48th minute to make it 3-0.
The hosts continued to press for a consolation goal, but goalkeeper Namuwaya Mayimuna delivered another assured performance, preserving Uganda’s perfect defensive record and securing a fifth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the players and technical team as the Teen Cranes successfully defended the title they first won in 2023.
Speaking after the victory, Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes praised her players for their discipline and commitment throughout the competition.
“I am very happy that the team followed instructions and won all the five matches played in the tournament,” Botes said.
Uganda’s triumph further underlined the country’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in women’s youth football in the CECAFA region.
The awards ceremony was attended by Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam, President of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations, Doris Petra, a member of the CECAFA Executive Committee, Wallace Karia, President of the Tanzania Football Federation and a member of the CAF Executive Committee, and Jean Seninde, CECAFA’s Interim Executive Director.
The successful title defence reinforces Uganda’s progress in youth football development and provides a strong platform for the next generation of women’s football talent in the country.