Uganda’s quest for a place on the global stage has taken a decisive step forward, with head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes naming her final travelling squad for the last round of the African qualifiers for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026.
The Junior Crested Cranes are set to face Ghana in a high-stakes first leg clash on Sunday, May 3, at the Accra Sports Stadium, with kick-off slated for 3:30 PM local time (6:30 PM EAT). The return leg will ultimately determine who secures a coveted spot at the World Cup.
Carrying belief and momentum into the encounter, the Ugandan contingent wrapped up its final training session on Thursday evening at the FUFA Technical Centre before departing for Accra later that night.
The mood in camp, according to Botes, has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The camp is very positive, and we are looking forward to the match. We have a good squad, and we believe in them,” Botes stated, underscoring the confidence within the ranks.
“We know it’s going to be tough against Ghana. We analysed their game against South Africa, and it will be difficult for both teams.
We need support from Ugandans—we are going to fight and make you proud. World Cup qualification is a real possibility.”
The squad reflects a blend of domestic excellence and international exposure, with players drawn from leading Ugandan clubs and a few plying their trade abroad.
Notably, Malta-based midfielder Sylvia Kabene adds a touch of overseas experience, while stalwarts from St. Noa Girls, Kawempe Muslim Ladies, and Amus College form the core of the team.
With a World Cup berth within touching distance, Uganda now turns its focus to Accra, where resilience, tactical discipline, and composure will be paramount against a formidable Ghanaian side. The stage is set for a defining chapter in the nation’s women’s football journey.
Travelling Squad
Goalkeepers:
Lillian Nakirya (St. Noa Girls FC), Angella Adeke (Amus College WFC)
Defenders:
Desire Katisi Natooro (Kenya Police Bullets FC – Kenya), Barbara Anomo (St. Noa Girls FC), Phiona Arach, Martha Babirye (El Cambio), Zabinah Nambozo (Amus College WFC), Vicky Atyeronimungu (Amus College WFC), Ritah Kadondi (UCU Lady Cardinals FC)
Midfielders:
Agnes Nabukenya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Krusum Namutebi (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Imelda Kasemire (St. Noa Girls FC), Zainabu Birungi (St. Noa Girls FC), Patricia Nayiga (St. Noa Girls FC), Sylvia Kabene (Hibernian FC – Malta), Peace Muduwa (Kampala Queens FC), Sumaya Nalumu (Kampala Queens FC), Angel Kigongo Auki (Uganda Martyrs H/S WFC)
Forwards:
Mary Katono (She Corporate FC), Yasmeen Nalukwago (Rines SS WFC)
