DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Uganda’s U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, have secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship after a commanding 3-0 victory over Zanzibar at KMC Stadium on Tuesday.
The win gives Uganda a perfect six points from their opening two Group B matches, guaranteeing their progression to the knockout stage with one group game still remaining.
After dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities throughout the first half, the Teen Cranes finally broke the deadlock in the 44th minute when forward Shadia Nabirye found the back of the net following sustained pressure on the Zanzibar defence.
Uganda maintained their momentum after the break and doubled their lead in the 58th minute through Immaculate Acen, who finished off a well-worked move to put the East African side firmly in control.
The Teen Cranes continued to press for more goals and were rewarded deep into stoppage time when Justine Ayerango added a third in the 90th minute, sealing an emphatic victory and underlining Uganda’s credentials as one of the tournament favourites.
Speaking after the match, head coach Sheryl Botes praised her players for both the result and the quality of their performance.
“It was not only about the goals today but also the performance of the players. We knew Zanzibar would be a difficult opponent because of their physical approach, but I had confidence in the players and their abilities,” Botes said.
The victory follows Uganda’s strong start to the tournament and puts the team in a commanding position ahead of their final Group B fixture.
The Teen Cranes will conclude their group-stage campaign against South Sudan on Thursday, June 18, at KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, with the team now aiming to maintain its winning momentum heading into the semi-finals.
Uganda Starting XI: Sharifah Namutebi Kizito (GK), Tahia Nantege, Jovia Nakirya, Martha Babirye (Captain), Angel Gerevans Dominick, Vicky Atyeronimungu, Lydia Namaseruka, Flavia Yagala, Shadia Nabirye, Justine Ayerango and Immaculate Acen.
Substitutes: Adam Mayimuna Namuwaya (GK), Ritah Nambuusi Anita, Tracy Nabalanzi, Grace Kawiino, Nakalema Rashidah, Cynthia Kirenga, Brenda Nassaka and Phionah Arach.
