FIFA U17 Women’s WC: Uganda eliminate Cameroon in stunning fashion

History unfolded on Friday as Uganda’s U17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, secured a remarkable 1-3 victory over Cameroon in Yaounde, eliminating the hosts from the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers on a 2-4 aggregate scoreline.

The journey began with a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the first leg at Kitende. Agnes Nabukenya’s goal for Uganda was countered by Ernestine Heutcho’s equalizer for Cameroon, setting the stage for a thrilling second leg.

In Yaounde, the Teen Cranes came out firing and delivered a dominant performance, capitalizing on early defensive errors from Cameroon.

In the 22nd minute, Slyvia Kabene capitalized on a miscommunication between the Cameroonian goalkeeper and defender to slot home the opening goal.

Esther Nangendo further extended Uganda’s lead with a direct corner kick just three minutes later.

Uganda held their 2-0 lead until the dying moments when Cameroon pulled one back. However, Agnes Nabukenya sealed the deal with a stunning long-range free-kick in the 94th minute, securing a well-deserved 1-3 win.

This well-deserved victory marks coach Sherly Botes Ulanda‘s first competitive win across all Uganda Women’s National Teams.

Uganda’s triumph secures their passage to the next round, where they will face the winner of the Zambia vs. Tanzania tie.

With three CAF representatives qualifying for the 2024 U-17 FIFA World Cup in the Dominican Republic, the Teen Cranes are now just one step closer to achieving their World Cup dream.