The Uganda Women’s National Team, the Crested Cranes, has arrived in Addis Ababa ahead of their decisive second-leg clash against Ethiopia’s Lucy in the WAFCON 2026 Qualifiers.
The match is set for Wednesday, February 26, at Abebe Bikila Stadium, with Uganda carrying a 2-0 advantage from the first leg in Kampala.
Led by FUFA Executive Committee member Dan Obote, the 20-player squad touched down on Sunday afternoon aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
Head coach Sheryl Botes expressed confidence in her team’s ability to finish the job, emphasizing the importance of discipline and composure against an Ethiopian side expected to push forward aggressively.
“We know Ethiopia will come at us from the start, but we are ready for the challenge. Our focus is on staying compact defensively while exploiting spaces on the counter,” Botes stated.
Uganda’s late first-leg goals from Zaina Namuleme and Fazila Ikwaput put them in control, but Ethiopia remains a dangerous opponent, especially at home. The hosts are expected to rely on their quick passing game and high pressing to overturn the deficit.
The Crested Cranes will conduct their first training session in Addis Ababa on Monday, focusing on tactical shape and set-piece drills.
Star forward Ikwaput, who was instrumental in the first leg, is expected to lead the attack alongside Namuleme and Resty Nanziri.
The winner on aggregate will progress to the final qualification round, where they will face either Tanzania or Equatorial Guinea for a place in the 2026 WAFCON.
Uganda is seeking to qualify for the continental tournament for the first time since 2022.
With a two-goal cushion, the Crested Cranes will look to manage the game effectively while remaining a threat on the counterattack.
Kickoff in Addis Ababa is set for 4:00 PM local time.
