Crested Cranes Secure Crucial 2-0 Victory Over Ethiopia in WAFCON 2026 Qualifier First Leg

The Uganda women’s national football team, the Crested Cranes, claimed a crucial 2-0 victory over Ethiopia’s Lucy in the first leg of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 qualifier. The hard-fought encounter took place on home soil, with Uganda securing the advantage through late strikes from Zaina Namuleme and Fazila Ikwaput.

The match began with both teams struggling to break each other down, resulting in a first half with few clear-cut chances. Both sides displayed strong defensive discipline, preventing any significant goal-scoring opportunities in the early exchanges.

Uganda suffered an early setback in the 29th minute when defender Bridget Nabisalu was forced off due to injury. Head Coach Sheryl Botes responded by introducing Phiona Nabulime as a replacement, ensuring stability at the back.

Before halftime, Uganda intensified their attacking efforts, with Resty Nanziri, Fazila Ikwaput, and Zaina Namuleme testing Ethiopia’s defensive line. However, they were unable to find a breakthrough as Ethiopia’s defence held firm.

The Crested Cranes returned from the break with renewed energy and increased attacking intensity. Ikwaput came close to opening the scoring, only to be denied by Ethiopia’s goalkeeper, who made a crucial save to keep the game level.

Recognizing the need for fresh legs, Coach Botes made a double substitution after the hour mark, bringing on Resty Kobusobozi and Agnes Nabukenya for Phiona Nabbumba and team captain Viola Nambi. The tactical adjustments provided Uganda with added momentum, but Ethiopia also had their moments. However, Uganda’s goalkeeper Ruth Aturo remained sharp and made key saves to keep the visitors at bay. 

As the match neared its conclusion and seemed destined to end in a stalemate, Uganda found a breakthrough in the 89th minute. Namuleme was fouled just outside the 18-yard box and confidently stepped up to take the resulting free kick. With precision and composure, she sent the ball past the Ethiopian goalkeeper, giving Uganda a well-deserved lead.

With five minutes of stoppage time added, Uganda capitalized on their momentum. In the dying moments of the game, Ikwaput displayed her poise in front of goal, slotting in a composed finish inside the box to double the advantage. The goal secured a commanding 2-0 lead for the Crested Cranes ahead of the crucial return leg.

With this vital win, Uganda takes a significant advantage into the second leg, which will be played in Addis Ababa on February 26. The Crested Cranes will now focus on maintaining their lead and securing qualification to the next round of the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers.

A win or a draw in Ethiopia

will be enough to see Uganda progress, while Ethiopia will need a convincing victory to overturn the deficit. Coach Botes and her squad will be aiming to build on their performance and ensure Uganda’s place in the next qualification round.

The Crested Cranes' triumph showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and a strong team spirit—key elements they will need to replicate in the return leg. Uganda's fans will be hoping for another inspired performance as the team seeks to continue their journey toward WAFCON 2026.