The Uganda U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes, are stepping up their preparations for a decisive FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Namibia, with debutant Nalwoga Yasmeen confident the side has what it takes to advance.
The team, under head coach Sherly Ulanda Botes, has spent the past three days in camp at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku. With the doubleheader looming, the focus has been on sharpening tactics and building belief for what could be a historic campaign. Uganda has never qualified for the U20 Women’s World Cup, but the squad believes this could finally be the year.
Nalwoga, a standout from Rines SS and a rising star in the FUFA Women Super League, is among the fresh faces in the squad. Making her first call-up, she says the honor of donning national colors has only fueled her determination.
“We had our third training session today at Wankulukuku, and everything is going well,” she said. “We’re in good shape, and the entire team is working together to go past Namibia.”
The midfielder expressed her trust in coach Botes’ leadership and tactics, adding that she is ready to contribute if called upon. “This is my first call-up to the national team, but I believe in the coach’s instructions. I listen, I learn, and I’m ready to give my all to help the team move forward,” she said.
The Queen Cranes will host Namibia in a two-legged tie on September 19 and September 22 at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, with both games scheduled for 4:00 PM. Victory across the two fixtures would keep Uganda’s World Cup dream alive.
For Nalwoga, the opportunity is personal as well as collective. “It’s a great honor to represent my country. I feel proud and ready to work hard to help the team achieve its dreams. I also want to grow as a player and be counted among the best,” she added.
The Queen Cranes’ journey begins next week, with the whole squad focused on rewriting history.
