In a stunning display of skill and determination, Uganda’s women’s football team claimed the Homeless World Cup title on Saturday in Oslo, Norway, defeating nine-time champions Mexico 6-0 in the final.
This marked Uganda’s first appearance in the tournament in 14 years and made them only the third African nation to lift the women’s trophy, after Kenya and South Africa.
Uganda’s journey to glory was remarkable. They finished top of Group B with 14 points, then overcame India in the quarterfinals and Romania in the semifinals, before dominating Mexico in the final.
Stella Namisango shone brightest, scoring a hat trick, with Eva Nagayi and Jemimah Twesigye adding the remaining goals.
The squad also featured Josephine Ndagire, Viola Namuddu, Cissy Nakato, Sharifah Kitali, and Shadia Nambasa, combining talent from the FUFA Women’s Super League, including several players from Makerere University.
In addition to their historic victory, Uganda received the FIFPRO Fair Play Award, honoring their sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the team, saying:
“This is a historic moment, not just for Uganda, but for Africa and the Homeless World Cup. Uganda’s triumph demonstrates how football can inspire hope, change perceptions, and unite communities.”
The 20th Homeless World Cup featured 63 teams from 48 countries, with 500 players competing.
Uganda’s women added this achievement to their recent success at the 2025 Africa Women’s Cup in Nairobi, where they successfully defended their 2024 title.
On the men’s side, Egypt made history, defeating Portugal 4-3 to become the first African men’s team to win the tournament.
Launched in 1999, the Homeless World Cup uses football as a platform to empower marginalized communities and advocate for social change, adding a women’s competition in 2008.
Uganda’s triumph is not just a victory on the field, it’s a powerful testament to resilience, talent, and African football’s rising stature on the world stage.
