Kawempe’s Journey to the 8th Fresh Dairy Girls’ Football Title: A Triumph of Skill and Determination

By Brian Sentuuya || In a thrilling climax to an extraordinary season, Kawempe Muslim Secondary School clinched their eighth USSSA National Girls Football Championship on Friday, June 21, 2024. The highly anticipated final, held at Standard High School Zzana – Ndejje Campus, witnessed a heart-stopping 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Rines Secondary School after a goalless draw in regular time. The match was a testament to the grit, resilience, and sheer determination of both teams, with Kawempe emerging triumphant in a fashion that will be remembered for years to come.

Under the astute guidance of Coach Nkaata Moses, and with the inspirational leadership of captain Sharifah Nakimera, Kawempe Muslim SS showcased an exemplary display of teamwork and skill. Throughout the tense 90 minutes, both sides fought valiantly, but it was the dramatic penalty shootout that sealed the outcome. Kawempe’s players, including Agnes Nabukenya, Halimah Kampi, Sumaiyah Nabuto, and Babirye Hadijah, kept their nerves to score their penalties, equaling Rines’ four successful shots. The decisive moment arrived when Kawempe’s goalkeeper, Haira Nabbosa, made a heroic save on Rines’ final penalty of the initial five, cementing their victory.

The path to glory was not without its challenges. Kawempe had the chance to secure the win earlier when Namazzi Vanessa stepped up for their fifth penalty. Her shot, however, was brilliantly saved by Rines’ goalkeeper, Nansamba Bridget, momentarily rekindling Rines’ hopes. The tension was palpable as Kawempe’s midfielder, Krusoom, converted the next penalty, restoring their advantage. The final twist came when Nabbosa saved Halimah Mapyango’s penalty, triggering jubilant celebrations as Kawempe secured their eighth championship title.

A Remarkable Journey:

Kawempe’s journey to the championship was a saga of determination and dominance. At the district level, their intentions were clear from the outset. They won all their Group B games in a one-day fixture at Kibuli SS Playground, signaling their dominance early on. In a stunning display, they thrashed Lakeside Luzira 20-1 in their first match, followed by a 3-0 victory over Caltec Academy Makerere. These victories set the tone for their campaign, demonstrating their offensive prowess and solid defensive structure.

The team’s relentless march continued with a 2-0 win against Gaddafi Integrated Academy and a 4-0 triumph over Namungoona, ensuring their place in the semi-finals. Their path was marked by precision, skill, and a collective will to succeed. In the Kampala zone semi-finals, held on April 12, 2024, at Kibuli SS Playground, Kawempe secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Highland SS Kisaasi, earning a berth in the finals. However, history seemed to repeat itself when Uganda Martyrs once again defeated Kawempe in the final, thanks to a spectacular strike by Latifah Nakasi, echoing their previous year’s encounter.

Undeterred by their loss to rivals Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga in the Kampala District title match, Kawempe’s dominance in the national championship was undisputed. They topped Group D with a flawless performance, winning all five matches against thir group stage opponents such as Moyo Star Secondary School, St. Mary’s Magdeline, Bishop Comboni College, Kyeizooba Girls Secondary School, and hosts Ndejje Senior Secondary School. Their offensive prowess was evident as they scored 24 goals while conceding just one, underscoring their attacking might and defensive solidity. This remarkable feat set a benchmark for excellence in the tournament, showcasing Kawempe’s unwavering determination and superior footballing skills.

Defensive Prowess:

Throughout the tournament, Kawempe’s defense was a fortress. They conceded only two goals — one in the group stage and one in the round of 16 — showcasing an impenetrable backline. Their defensive strategy, orchestrated by Captain Sharifah Nakimera and anchored by the formidable goalkeeper Haira Nabbosa, was instrumental in their success. In the round of 16, they faced a stern test against Masaka SS but emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 win. The temporary halt of the tournament in May 2024 for the national U17 Teen Cranes’ World Cup qualifier against Zambia only added to the drama, delaying the quarterfinals as players were summoned for national duty.

Upon resumption on June 18, 2024, Kawempe faced Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga in the quarterfinals. After a goalless draw, they triumphed in the penalty shootout, avenging their earlier loss in the Kampala District trophy. Their semifinal clash against St. Noa Girls School Zana, the team that had bested them in the 2022 final, was another tense encounter. A decisive 31st-minute header by Hadijah Babirye secured their place in the final, underscoring their relentless pursuit of excellence.

A Legacy Cemented:

Kawempe Muslim Secondary School’s eighth title solidifies their legacy as the powerhouse of Ugandan women’s football. With championships in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, and now 2024, they are the undisputed record holders in the Fresh Dairy Girls’ Football Championship. This latest triumph is a testament to their consistent excellence, strategic acumen, and the remarkable leadership of Coach Moses and Captain Nakimera.

Honorable Mentions:

Rines Secondary School’s journey to the final was equally commendable, earning them a well-deserved silver medal. Their resilience and determination throughout the tournament were noteworthy. Meanwhile, 2023 champions Amus College School secured the bronze medal with a 2-0 victory over St. Noa Girls School Zana in the third-place playoff, showcasing the depth of talent and competition in the championship.

Kawempe’s victory is a shining example of skill, determination, and exceptional leadership. As they celebrate their historic eighth title, they continue to set the standard in the Fresh Dairy Girls’ Football Championship, inspiring the next generation of female footballers in Uganda. Their journey is not just a story of triumph but also a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes across the nation.

Individual awards:

The individual awards at this year’s Fresh Dairy Girls’ Football Championship highlighted the exceptional talents that graced the tournament. Bridget Nansamba of Rines Secondary School was deservedly named the best goalkeeper, her remarkable saves and unwavering composure under pressure proving pivotal throughout the competition. St Noa’s Sylvia Kabene showcased her striking prowess by scoring an impressive 22 goals, earning her the coveted golden boot and solidifying her reputation as a lethal forward. Prisca Ayerango of Rines Secondary School was honored as the most valuable player of the tournament, a testament to her extraordinary influence on the field, her playmaking abilities, and her leadership that inspired her team to their maiden final.

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