Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC took a major step towards the knockout stage of the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers after edging Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) Women FC 1-0 at Kigali Pele Stadium on Monday.
Captain Agnes Nabukenya delivered the decisive moment in the 12th minute, calmly converting from the spot to give the Ugandan champions a crucial victory in what was widely regarded as Group B’s defining fixture.
The Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League champions had to withstand sustained pressure after taking the lead but demonstrated impressive defensive discipline to protect their advantage until the final whistle.
Kawempe created enough opportunities to put the contest beyond doubt, with new recruits Cecilia Apiding, Latifah Nakasi and Jovia Nakagolo posing a constant threat.
Nakasi and Anitah Namata, however, squandered late opportunities that could have settled the encounter.
The result carries added significance for the Valley Warriors, who were seeking redemption against a CBE side that defeated them 2-1 in the 2024 CECAFA Women’s Champions League semi-finals before lifting the regional crown.
Kawempe also entered the contest with CBE high on confidence following their emphatic 11-0 demolition of Djibouti’s FC UJECO.
With three teams in Group B, Kawempe are now firmly in contention for a semi-final berth.
They next face UJECO, who sit bottom after their heavy opening defeat.
Elsewhere, Kenya Police Bullets defeated Tanzania’s Simba Queens 2-1 in Group C.
The victory strengthens Uganda’s hopes of having Kawempe Muslim advance deeper into the regional competition and pursue qualification for the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League finals.
