Midfielder Nalukwago Shamim has received her first call-up to the Uganda U-20 Women’s National Team, known as the Queen Cranes, as they prepare for their final round of African Qualifiers for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026. The announcement was made on Apr. 25 as the team remains in residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
The upcoming two-legged tie against Ghana is crucial, with a place at the global tournament in Poland at stake. The squad is currently undergoing intensive tactical, technical and physical training sessions to get ready for these decisive matches.
Nalukwago said she feels confident and determined after joining the team environment. “I am honoured to be part of this team for the first time. The experience has been very positive. I have met very talented, disciplined and focused players who are helping me adapt quickly and improve every day. I am learning a lot from both the coaches and my teammates, and the competition within the group is pushing everyone to raise their level,” she said.
She added that training sessions have been intense but productive: “The training sessions have been intense but very productive and we are fully committed to the team objectives. As players, we understand the importance of the upcoming matches against Ghana and we are preparing ourselves mentally and physically to give our very best in both legs as we push for World Cup qualification.”
The Queen Cranes will play Ghana on May 3 at Accra Sports Stadium before hosting them on May 9 in Kampala. The aggregate winner will secure qualification for next year’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.