Uganda’s U-17 Women’s National Team advanced to the second round of the African Qualifiers for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a 6-1 aggregate win over Zimbabwe, according to an April 18 announcement by head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes. The team secured their place with a 4-1 victory in the return leg at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba.
The result is significant as it keeps Uganda on track for a spot at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Progressing through these rounds is essential for teams seeking international competition and exposure.
Botes said she was pleased with her players’ ability to follow instructions and praised their strong start in Saturday’s match. “We are so proud of the girls’ performance. They really played according to instructions. We started well and got three goals early, dominated in the first and second zones, and managed to get the result we wanted,” she said.
She described her squad as young and eager to learn but noted there are still areas needing improvement, especially offensively in second-half play and set pieces. “This group of players is young, energetic, and open to learning. They are still at a learning stage, and that is important for their growth,” Botes said. She added: “There are a few areas we identified, especially in the second half offensively. We can do better, especially in situations like free-kicks.”
Botes also thanked clubs and schools that develop players as well as fans who attended in large numbers: “I thank the clubs where the players come from, they are doing a good job. I also thank the fans for coming in huge numbers to support the team.”
Looking ahead, Botes confirmed Uganda will face Kenya next month with preparations already underway alongside activities involving some players from Queen Cranes camp: “We now focus on the next opponent, Kenya. Some of the players are part of the Queen Cranes camp as we continue preparations,” she said.