Uganda’s U17 women’s national team, the Teen Cranes, have progressed to the second round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after a 6-1 aggregate victory over Zimbabwe, sealing qualification with a 4-1 win in the return leg at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba on Saturday.
Uganda now face Kenya in the next round following their 7-1 aggregate win over Namibia, with the ties scheduled for the end of May.
The Teen Cranes had already taken firm control of the contest in the first leg in Zimbabwe, where a disciplined display laid the foundation for progression. Immaculate Achen opened the scoring in the 17th minute after sustained pressure, before Lydia Nameseruka added a second to give Uganda a strong advantage heading into the return leg.
Back on home soil, Uganda managed the tie with composure and extended their dominance early. Brendah Nassaka struck in the 10th minute to settle any nerves, and Achen added her second goal of the tie in the 34th minute. Giovanna Aketogwanga made it three before the break, effectively putting the contest beyond reach.
Substitute Oseko Terry Moraa completed the scoring in the 85th minute as Uganda secured a comfortable win on the day and confirmed a 6-1 aggregate triumph.
Attention now shifts to an East African showdown against Kenya in the second round, with the first leg set for 22 to 24 May and the return leg scheduled for 29 to 31 May. The winner will move one step closer to the final round of qualification for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
