10 November 2021 | Football

Ethiopia are the winners of the first-ever CECAFA Women’s U20 Championship after defeating hosts Uganda in the title-deciding match on Tuesday.

Despite going a man and two goals down, Ethiopia recovered in the second half to beat Uganda 3-2 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

Uganda attacked with intent in the opening minutes and the pressure led to an early send off the Ethiopian goalkeeper. Fauzia Najjemba beat the Ethiopian defence for pace but was fouled by on-rushing goalkeeper Lorato just outside the box.

Centre referee Suzane Yohannes had iniatially shown a yellow card to Lorato gave her marching orders after consultation with second assistant referee Alida Iradukunda.

The host full took advantage the numerical imbabalance, getting the lead in the 25th minute through Hadijah Nandago who controlled with her right and fired home with the left foot after a cut back from Zaina Nandede.

Najjemba doubled the lead with five minuted to halftime after substitute goalkeeper failed to deal with the Ugandan captain's freekick.

The second half of the contest belonged to Ethiopia. Ridet Assrasahang pulled a goal back in the 51st minute, and it gave them belief and hope for a comeback.

Substitute Ariet Odong drew ethiopia level in the 78th minute and as pressure mounted on Uganda, Turist Lema fired home the winner with five minutes to play.

Ethiopia thus finished the tournament with a perfect five out of five to amass 15 points, Uganda settled for second place with 12 points.

Individual Awards

Ethiopian defender Birkea Amare was named the tournament Most Valuable Player while Fauzia Najjemba was the top scorer with 11 goals.

Uganda's Daphine Nyayenga despite conceding three goals in the last game was named the Best Goalkeeper at the tournament.

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