Queen Cranes Set to Soar: Final Squad Unveiled for All Africa Games 2023 | Sbk Sports Mail

Brian Sentuuya🇺🇬 March 4, 2024 (Last updated: March 4, 2024) 4 minutes read

By | 📝Brian Sentuuya | In a momentous revelation that echoes through the corridors of Ugandan football, Head Coach Sheryl Botes Ulanda has meticulously curated the final squad for the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team, aptly named the Queen Cranes, as they brace themselves for the grand stage of the All Africa Games 2023.

This announcement carries with it an air of historic significance as the Queen Cranes prepare to unfurl their wings and make a captivating debut at the prestigious quadrennial tournament. Accra, Ghana, is poised to become the theater of dreams for the team, with the tournament scheduled to unfold its magic between the 8th and 23rd of March 2024.

The journey to this pinnacle of continental football excellence was paved with determination and skill, as Uganda secured its place among the top eight teams in the fiercely competitive 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. This accomplishment is not just a qualification; it’s a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines Ugandan women’s football.

Placed in the illustrious Group A, the Queen Cranes find themselves in the company of football giants – hosts Ghana, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. This draws the curtain on a period of anticipation and speculation, ushering in a thrilling series of matches that promise to be a testament to the sport’s beauty and unpredictability.

The tournament’s debut for the Queen Cranes kicks off on the 9th of March, a date etched in the annals of Ugandan football history. Their inaugural opponent: neighbors Tanzania. Subsequent challenges await against Ethiopia on the 12th of March and a headline clash with hosts Ghana on the 15th of March, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.

As the Queen Cranes embark on their odyssey to Ghana, the symbolism is not lost as they board Ethiopian Airlines on a Wednesday morning at 2:45 am. This is not just a flight; it’s a voyage of dreams, aspirations, and national pride soaring through the skies towards the realms of African football glory.

Guiding this historic delegation is the experienced and dedicated FUFA Executive Committee Member, Dan Obote. In a role that extends beyond borders, Obote assumes the mantle of Leader of Delegation for both the Queen Cranes (U20 Women) and the promising Uganda Hippos (U20 Men). It’s a testament to the unity and comprehensive support ingrained within the leadership of Ugandan football.

FINAL SQUAD

Goalkeepers ; Sharon Kaidu (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, Uganda), Esther Akujo (She Maroons FC, Uganda), Cecilia Kamuli (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda)

Defenders : Harima Kanyago (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Catherine Wujja (Rines SS WFC, Uganda), Claire Hilder Kebirungi (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Docus Lwalisa (Olila High School WFC, Uganda), Patricia Akiror (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Shakirah Nankwanga (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda)

Midfielders : Krusum Namutebi (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Shamirah Nalugya (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Phiona Nabulime (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Shamusa Najjuma (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, Uganda), Sumaya Nabuto (Isra Soccer Academy FC, Uganda)

Forwards : Latifah Nakasi (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, Uganda), Magret Kunihira (Ceasiaa Queens FC, Tanzania), Zainah Nandede (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon Ladies FC, Cyprus), Catherine Nagadya ( Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Immaculate Kizza (She Maroons FC)

Backing this ensemble of talent is an accomplished coaching and support staff, featuring Assistant Coach Charles Ayiekoh Lukula, Performance Analyst Shawn Robert Bishop, and Goalkeeping Coach David Ribeiro, among other key contributors. It’s a team behind the team, ensuring that every stride, every pass, and every goal is meticulously orchestrated.The journey doesn’t end with the players and coaches; it extends to the dedicated officials ensuring optimal performance and well-being.

From the Team Doctor, Mable Kabatalindwa, to the Equipment Manager, Cissy Gaudensia Nakiguba, each member plays a crucial role in this expedition.As the nation holds its breath in anticipation, Uganda eagerly awaits the debut of the Queen Cranes on the grand continental stage. It’s more than a football tournament; it’s a celebration of passion, unity, and the indomitable spirit that defines Ugandan football. The All Africa Games 2023 beckon, and the Queen Cranes are ready to script their own chapter in the saga of African football excellence.