DAR ES SALAAM – Uganda’s Teen Cranes produced a commanding display to retain the CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship title, defeating hosts Tanzania 3-0 in Tuesday’s final at KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The victory capped a flawless tournament for the Ugandan youngsters, who finished the competition with five wins from five matches, 26 goals scored and none conceded.
Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes once again guided the Teen Cranes to regional glory, with the team demonstrating remarkable consistency, attacking prowess and defensive discipline throughout the championship.
Uganda asserted their dominance in the first half of the final, with Justine Ayerango breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute before Brenda Nasaaka doubled the advantage four minutes later to give the defending champions a comfortable lead heading into the break.
Tanzania attempted to mount a comeback after halftime, but Uganda’s backline, expertly led by Jovia Nakirya, remained resolute and denied the hosts any chance of getting back into the contest.
Any hopes of a Tanzanian revival were extinguished just three minutes into the second half when Flavia Yagala struck Uganda’s third goal of the afternoon.
Goalkeeper Namuwaya Mayimuna was largely untroubled but remained alert whenever called upon, preserving Uganda’s impressive defensive record and securing a fifth straight clean sheet.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Ugandan contingent as the Teen Cranes successfully defended the title they won in 2023, reaffirming their status as the region’s leading force in women’s youth football.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach Botes praised her players for executing the team’s game plan throughout the tournament.
“I am very happy that the team followed instructions and won all the five matches played in the tournament,” she said.
The triumph highlights the continued growth of Uganda’s women’s football development structures, with the Teen Cranes showcasing a talented generation capable of competing at higher levels.
The championship awards ceremony was attended by CECAFA President Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam, CECAFA Executive Committee member Doris Petra, Tanzania Football Federation President Wallace Karia, who also serves on the CAF Executive Committee, and CECAFA Interim Executive Director Jean Seninde.
For Uganda, the title defence was not only a demonstration of regional dominance but also a statement of intent as the country continues to invest in the future of women’s football.