The Ugandan U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes, secured their first victory at the 2023 African Games in Ghana. They dominated Ethiopia 2-0 at the Cape Coast Stadium on Tuesday.
Captain Catherine Nagadya and left-back Docus Lwalisa led the charge, each scoring a goal in the first half. The win comes after a previous 1-1 draw against Tanzania in their opening game.
Coach Sheryl Botes made a single change to the starting lineup, bringing in Juliet Nalukenge for Krusum Namutebi. The tactic paid off early, as Uganda took the lead within ten minutes. Nagadya capitalized on a well-placed pass from Nalukenge, finishing from close range.
Lwalisa doubled the lead in the 29th minute with a surprising feat. Her powerful free kick sailed past the Ethiopian goalkeeper, Genet Ermiyas Iltro, who misjudged the trajectory.
The first half wasn’t without its tense moments. Ugandan defender Shakirah Nankwanga suffered an injury and was replaced by Namutebi in the 43rd minute. Goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu also proved her worth with a crucial save just before halftime, denying Mesay Temsegen’s shot that rattled the crossbar.
Ethiopia mounted a strong comeback attempt in the second half, but a determined Ugandan defense led by Kaidu held them off. Coach Botes strategically brought on fresh legs with substitutions throughout the half.
This victory propels Uganda to four points after two games. They’ll face their final group stage opponent, host nation Ghana, on Friday.
