Uganda Women’s National Football Team, the Crested Cranes, has announced its final 20-player squad under head coach Sheryl Botes Ulanda.

In a surprising decision, goalkeeper Ruth Aturo has been dropped, leaving many questioning the move.

With a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Uganda will face Ethiopia in the second leg on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Addis Ababa.

Teenager Lillian Nakiirya has been called up to fill the big shoes of former Crested Cranes captain Aturo.

Margaret Namande, Auki Kigongo, and Teddy Najjuma, who missed the first leg, have been included in the traveling squad.

Uganda aims to hold onto their advantage and progress to face the winner between Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea.

Travelling Squad

Nakaziro Daisy(GK), Nakiirya Lillian(GK), Nantongo Aisha, Nabulime Phionah, Nandede Zainah, Namusoke Esther, Namande Margret, Kobusinge Jolly, Komuntale Sumaya, Nabirye Joan, Nabbumba Phiona, Najjuma Teddy, Nabukenya Agnes, Namuleme Zaina, Nambi Violah, Kobusobozi Resty, Auki Kigongo Angel, Ikwaput Fazila, Nanziri Resty and Nakasi Latifah

FUFA Junior League | Results

• KCCA SA 1-1 NEC JT
• Mbarara City JT 1-3 Vipers SC JT
• Police FC JT 0-3 BUL FC JT
• Mbale Heroes JT 1-1 Maroons FC JT
• Lugazi FC JT 0-0 SC Villa JT

KCCA Soccer Academy played to a one-all draw against NEC Junior Team in the FUFA Junior League encounter at MTN Omondi Stadium on Saturday.

Emmanuel Oula gave the visitors a lead in the 18th minute with a powerful hit as KCCA’s backline looked on.

NEC kept knocking on the door but was very unlucky to extend their lead in the first half of the game.

The first half came to an end with the visitors having a narrow lead.

However, KCCA returned to the second half hungry to get back into the game.

Halfway the second half, KCCA levelled matters through their lanky forward.

The KCCA SA has sofar played three games registering a win, loss and a draw.

Ssaaka Mpima’s charges will have to improve on their conversion rate to meet last year’s standards.

Sunday – Fixtures

• Bright Stars JT vs Kitara JT
• Wakiso Giants JT vs URA JT
• UPDF JT vs Express JT

Uganda Teen Cranes head coach Sheryl Botes has announced a provisional squad of 32 players for camp ahead of the second qualifying round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup 2025.

The Teen Cranes will face Kenya with the first leg set for March 8 at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo and the return leg scheduled for March 16 in Kenya.

Uganda secured their place in this round after an emphatic 18-1 aggregate victory over Namibia in the first phase of qualification.

The ultimate goal is to secure a spot in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, set to take place in Morocco from October 17 to November 8, 2025.

Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers

1. Nabbosa Haira – Kawempe Muslim SS WFC
2. Namutebi Sharifah Kizito – Kampala Queens FC
3. Angudeyo Brenda – Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC
4. Tendo Jemimah Bynum – Rines SS WFC

Defenders

5. Babirye Martha – El Cambio
6. Nambuusi Ritah Anitah – Devine Soccer Academy
7. Assimwe Zidah – Boni Consilii Girls FC
8. Niwandinda Mackline – Boni Consilii Girls FC
9. Abahwera Shabella – Makerere University WFC
10. Katusiime Charity – Tagy WFC
11. Tushemerirwe Evas – Boni Consilii Girls FC
12. Mupyanga Halima – Rines SS WFC
13. Kainza Joyce – Amus College WFC
14. Imurinde Uwayo Ashanti – Boni Consilii Girls FC
15. Apetcho Elizabeth – Bukedea Comprehensive

Midfielders

16. Nalunkuuma Bushirah M. – Rines SS WFC
17. Namukabirye Shamirah – Rines SS WFC
18. Nandyowa Nusifah – Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC
19. Balinabyo Hadijah – Jinja City Queens FC
20. Ainemababazi Esther – Boni Consilii Girls FC
21. Asanyo Patience – El Cambio
22. Aujat Dorine – Amus College WFC
23. Namataka Mariam – Amus College WFC
24. Komugisha Loyce – Boni Consilii Girls FC
25. Ayerango Justine – Rines SS WFC
26. Namulindwa Joan Kizza – Boni Consilii Girls FC
27. Nabirye Shadia – Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC
28. Ayiorwoth Peace – Boni Consilii Girls FC

Forwards

29. Nabukenya Agnes – Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC
30. Ariho Rinah – Boni Consilii Girls FC
31. Ainemababazi Angel – Rines SS WFC
32. Nakintu Nusulah – Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC

Uganda U17 men’s national team, fondly known as the Cubs, has taken a significant step towards the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Head coach Brian Ssenyondo has summoned a 37-man provisional squad for preparations ahead of the continental tournament to be hosted in Morocco. The squad is expected to enter camp on Monday, February 24 at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.

The Cubs earned their place in the AFCON tournament as CECAFA region champions, having put up a spirited performance in the qualifiers. Their thrilling 2-1 victory over Tanzania in the final was a testament to their resilience, skill, and teamwork.

Ssenyondo has opted for continuity in his selection, retaining the majority of players who played an instrumental role in Uganda’s CECAFA U17 triumph. These players already have an established understanding of each other’s playing styles and tactics, which gives them a competitive edge heading into the tournament.

However, the squad has also been strengthened with new additions, primarily drawn from the FUFA Juniors League and standout performers from school competitions. These fresh faces bring extra energy and depth to the team, ensuring a well-balanced squad ready to take on Africa’s best.

Uganda is in a challenging Group A, where they will battle against the host nation Morocco, fierce regional rivals Tanzania, and a strong Zambian side. Each of these teams presents a unique challenge, and the Cubs must be at their best to advance to the knockout stages.

The Squad

Goalkeepers: Lukyamuzi Ashiraf (KCCA FC SA), Waibi Edrisah (Wakiso Giants FC JT), Mukwanga Adrian (Vipers SC JT), Kakaire Nicholas (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Aaron Zziwa (Working FC Academy-England)

Defenders: Torach Elvis (Masaka Sunshine FC), Oyirwoth Pius (KCCA FC SA), Steven Oyirwoth (KCCA FC SA), Ssengooba Hamuza (Masaka Sunshine FC), Nsereko Jovan Mukisa (NEC FC JT), Kayiza Raymond Serunyigo (Soltilo Bright Stars FC JT), Buluma Sudiki (Police FC JT), Shaban Ali (Express FC JT), Mukisa Marcus Jonathan (SC Villa JT), Latigo King Sammy (Empire FC)

Midfielders: Jjara Brain (KCCA FC SA), Walusimbi Abubakali (Vipers SC JT), Isima Magala Mulala (Masaka Sunshine FC), Okello Richard (BUL FC JT), Kabiito Marvin (Vipers SC JT), Owino John Brian (Express FC JT), Kyakuwa Ashiraf (Vipers SC JT), Ogema Thomas (KCCA FC SA), Kamurungi Nuweagaba (Kitara FC JT), Ssozi Derrick (Fort Portal Tax Operators FC), Langol Joseph (Poarhinar Soccer Academy), Ssembusi Patrick (Amus College School), Amaku Guot (Brooke House College-England)

Forwards: Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio (Namilyango College School), Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC JT), Bogere James (Masaka Sunshine FC), Wanyama Simon (Vipers SC JT), Ntege Abdul Lukenge (Maroons FC JT), Masudi Raphael (KCCA FC SA), Babalanda Tom (BUL FC JT), Mubiru Mahad (Mbale Heroes FC JT), Joel Kigenyi (Bukedea Comprehensive SS)

Technical Team

• Ssenyondo Brian – Head Coach
• Ssali Ronald – Assistant Coach
• Magada Keneth – Goalkeeper Coach
• Massa Simeon – Fitness Coach
• Kizito Dennis – Trainer
• Mutyaba Bashir – Team Manager
• Gumisiriza Micheal – Team Doctor
• Kulika Ivan – Team Doctor
• Damba Veron – Equipment Manager
• Kivumbi Joel Cornerious – Media Officer

WAFCON Qualifiers | Result

• Uganda 2-0 Ethiopia

Uganda Women’s Football National Team Crested Cranes registered a well-deserved 2-0 victory against Ethiopia in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo on Friday.

Zainah Namuleme and Fazila Ikwaput were on target as Uganda bagged the advantage in the first leg.

Uganda suffered a major blow when Bridget Nabisaalu was stretchered off due to an injury and replaced by Phiona Nabulime in the 28th minute.

Ethiopia came close to taking the lead in the 31st minute through Senaf Wakuma but the forward’s effort went inches wide.

In the 35th minute, Ethiopia’s backline was called to action as Berkie Amaru cleared Resty Nanziri’s cutback after beating her marker.

Crested Cranes’ custodian Ruth Aturo rushed off the line to make a big save after Wafuma set up Aregash Kalsa in the area.

Ethiopia’s goalkeeper Tarikwa Bergena made a double save to deny Fazila Ikwaput and Phiona Nabbumba’s efforts.

Namuleme broke the deadlock in the 89th minute with a powerful strike that went through Ethiopia’s wall.

Ikwaput doubled Uganda’s lead with a simple but brilliant finish after Ethiopia failed to clear their lines in added time.

The two sides will play the second leg on Wednesday, February 26 in Addis Ababa.

Crested Cranes XI: Ruth Aturo (XI), Aisha Nantongo, Joan Nabirye, Bridget Nabisaalu, Zainah Namuleme, Phiona Nabbumba, Resty Nanziri, Sumayah Komuntale, Fazila Ikwaput, Viola Nambi, Zainah Nandede

WAFCON Qualifiers | Halftime

• Uganda 0-0 Ethiopia

After 45 minutes of play, Uganda and Ethiopia are still goalless in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on Friday.

There was no clear-cut chance in the first stanza since both sides preferred to stay on the back foot instead of the front.

Uganda suffered a major blow when Bridget Nabisaalu was stretchered off due to an injury and replaced by Phiona Nabulime in the 28th minute.

Ethiopia came close to taking the lead in the 31st minute through Senaf Wakuma but the forward’s effort went inches wide.

In the 35th minute, Ethiopia’s backline was called to action as Berkie Amaru cleared Resty Nanziri’s cutback after beating her marker.

Crested Cranes’ custodian Ruth Aturo rushed off the line to make a big save after Wafuma set up Aregash Kalsa in the area.

The fight will stretch to the second half as the two sides look for the advantage in the first leg of the encounter.

Crested Cranes XI: Ruth Aturo (GK), Aisha Nantongo, Joan Nabirye, Bridget Nabisaalu, Zainah Namuleme, Phiona Nabbumba, Resty Nanziri, Sumayah Komuntale, Fazila Ikwaput, Viola Nambi, Zainah Nandede

Uganda Cup | Results

• Vipers 2-0 Mbarara City
• CATDA 1-2 Kitara

Vipers registered a 2-0 victory against Mbarara City in the Uganda Cup encounter at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Thursday.

Vipers would have taken an early lead in the second minute after Sentamu placed the ball into the back of the net but it was flagged offside.

Sentamu broke the deadlock in the 38th minute with a powerful header off Hillary Mukundane’s delivery.

Karim Watambala was set up by Allan Okello but the midfielder ballooned the ball above the frame with the goal at his disposal.

Edward Namasa received a second booking in the 78th minute after tugging down Okello steps away from the box.

Okello doubled Vipers’ lead with a sweet freekick before racing to the corner flag for his customary dance.

The victory takes Vipers to the last 16 in the ongoing prestigious tournament.

Uganda Cup | Result

• CATDA 1-2 Kitara

Kitara secured a 2-1 victory over CATDA in their Uganda Cup match on Thursday, February 20, 2025.

Played at Coffe Grounds in Bugolobi, Kitara had to work hard to claim a narrow win.

Despite dominating possession, the first half ended goalless as CATDA held strong.

The breakthrough came in the 71st minute when Patrick Kaddu gave Kitara the lead.

CATDA responded in the 84th minute, levelling the score but the advantage did not last for long.

Three minutes later, Martin Kikambwe inadvertently put the ball into his own net, handing Kitara a 2-1 lead that stood until the final whistle.

The victory took the holders to the last 16 of the ongoing prestigious tournament.

WAFCON Qualifiers | Fixture

• Uganda vs Ethiopia – 4pm

Uganda is set to face Ethiopia in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, this Friday.

Crested Cranes head coach, Sheryl Botes Ulanda, expressed confidence ahead of the highly anticipated clash against their regional rivals.

“We are in top shape, both physically and mentally. Everyone in the camp is eager and ready to go,” she stated.

Acknowledging Ethiopia’s attacking strength, Ulanda emphasized the need for a tactical approach.

“Ethiopia has a formidable squad, particularly in attack, but we will not underestimate them. We have a strategic plan to neutralize their attacking threats and maximize our scoring opportunities,” she added.

The coach reaffirmed that Uganda’s primary goal is to secure qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, set to take place in Morocco.

Uganda will host the first leg before traveling to Ethiopia for the return fixture on Wednesday, February 26.

Ulanda also confirmed that Violah Nambi will captain the team, with Fazila Ikwaput and Ruth Aturo serving as her deputies.

Uganda Cup | Result

• Rwenzori Lions 0(4)-0(3) Buhimba United Saints

Rwenzori Lions ejected Buhimba United Saints to secure a spot in the last 16 of the ongoing Uganda Cup tournament.

The Kasese based side kicked out Buhimba United after a 4-3 victory in the post match penalty shoot out.

In the game that was played at the Rusese Airlines playground, Kasese Buhimba United were the better side but failed to guide the ball into the back of the net.

To reach this stage, Rwenzori Lions eliminated Big League side Busoga United after a 2-1 victory at Rusese.

On the other hand, Buhimba United edged Football Classroom 2-1 at Yes Center, Nsambya.

The round of 32 will continue on Thursday, February with three fixtures as Calvary will hosting Kitara, Kaaro Karungi will l9ck horns witb Busia Young while Mbarara City will be on the road to face Vipers.