The Uganda Teen Cranes have once again proven their dominance in East African women’s football, retaining the CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship title after a commanding 3-0 victory over Tanzania in the final at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The triumph marked a special milestone for head coach Sheryl Botes, who secured her first trophy since taking charge of the Uganda U17 Women’s team. Under her guidance, the Teen Cranes delivered a flawless campaign, winning all five matches played in the tournament while displaying discipline, confidence, and tactical maturity. Uganda entered the final knowing that 90 minutes stood between them and history against a determined Tanzanian side backed by home support, the Teen Cranes showed composure from the opening whistle.
Justine Ayerango and Brenda Nasaaka gave Uganda a strong foundation, scoring to send the defending champions into the break with a 2-0 advantage. Tanzania attempted to respond through Yasinta Kaluwa and Bahati Kizanguzi, but Uganda’s defensive organisation remained solid, with Jovia Nakirya leading a backline that frustrated every attacking moves, three minutes after the restart, Flavia Yagala delivered the decisive blow, adding Uganda’s third goal and putting the championship beyond Tanzania’s reach. Despite continued pressure from the hosts, goalkeeper Namuwaya Mayimuna stood firm to preserve the clean sheet and complete another memorable title victory.
The final whistle sparked celebrations as Uganda lifted the trophy they first won in 2023, confirming their position as the team to beat in the region’s youth women’s football. The success was also a reflection of a team that listened, adapted, and executed the coach’s instructions throughout the competition. From the group stages to the final, the Teen Cranes showed consistency, teamwork, and the hunger required to become champions.
Uganda received gold medals and the championship trophy, while Tanzania claimed silver and Kenya secured bronze after defeating South Sudan 7-0 in the third-place playoff.
The awards ceremony was attended by CECAFA President Paulos Andemariam, CECAFA Executive Committee Member Doris Petra, Tanzania Football Federation President and CAF Executive Committee Member Wallace Karia, and CECAFA Interim Executive Director Jean Seninde.
For Sheryl Botes, it was more than just a trophy, it was the beginning of a new chapter. Her first title as Uganda head coach has set the tone for a promising future as the Teen Cranes continue to build a strong foundation for women’s football in Uganda.
Champions once again. History defended. The Teen Cranes continue to rise.
Photo: Kamira Asha (Zaabu Sports) in Tanzania
