26 February 2025 | Uncategorized

WAFCON Qualifiers | Result

• Ethiopia 2(5)-0(4) Uganda
• Aggregate: 2-2

Uganda's Senior Women's National Football Team, the Crested Cranes, were eliminated from the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers by Ethiopia on Wednesday.

Ethiopia secured a 2-0 victory over Uganda at the Abebe Bikila Stadium, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2 after Uganda had won the first leg 2-0 at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

The hosts started strongly, applying early pressure, but Uganda’s defense remained resolute. Uganda’s first real chance came in the 33rd minute when Fazila Ikwaput’s effort went wide of the target.

Goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro made a crucial save to deny Ethiopia from a dangerous set piece at the edge of the box, as the home side continued to press forward.

Uganda nearly took the lead in the 52nd minute when Zaina Namuleme unleashed a powerful strike, but the ball sailed inches wide.

The Crested Cranes suffered a major setback in the 54th minute when Fazila Ikwaput was shown a straight red card, reducing them to 10 players.

Ethiopia took advantage of their numerical superiority, breaking the deadlock in the 66th minute through Tadesse Aregash, who capitalized on a poor clearance from goalkeeper Nakaziro.

In stoppage time, substitute Daniel Emush scored a stunning direct free kick from the edge of the box, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Uganda’s Zaina Namuleme, Joan Nabirye, Phiona Nabulime, and Aisha Nantogo converted their penalties. However, Phiona Nabbuba and Resty Kobusobozi missed, allowing Ethiopia to win 5-4 on penalties and progress to the next round.

Crested Cranes Starting XI:

Daisy Nakaziro (GK), Aisha Nantongo, Fazila Ikwaput, Joan Nabirye, Phiona Nabulime, Zaina Namuleme, Resty Nanziri, Sumayah Komuntale, Viola Nambi, Zaina Nandede.

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