Uganda’s Teen Cranes observed their dream of reaching the next stage of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers come to an end after a goalless draw in the direction of Kenya’s Junior Starlets in Nairobi on Saturday.
The top end result handed Kenya qualification on the away goals rule after the two sides had carried out out a 1-1 draw throughout the first leg in Kampala. Emily Adhiambo’s important equaliser in Uganda lastly proved decisive all through the two-legged contest.
Needing a scoring draw or victory to progress, the Teen Cranes delivered a spirited effectivity and cherished quite a lot of promising moments all by the match. Immaculate Achen squandered an early one-on-one various, whereas Justine Ayerango received right here shut with an formidable long-range effort that drifted narrowly large.
Uganda managed large spells of the first half, dominating possession and dictating the tempo via a composed midfield present. Shadia Nabirye and Martha Nabirye had been influential as a result of the visitors repeatedly examined the Kenyan defence.
The Teen Cranes continued to threaten after the break, with Achen as soon as extra going shut after being carried out via on goal by a superb transfer from Shadia Nabirye, only for Kenya captain Beverline Awuor to make an important restoration take care of.
Uganda’s best likelihood arrived throughout the 76th minute when a dangerous free-kick introduced on goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo to spill the ball. Joan Namakula reacted quickest nevertheless fired large from shut range with the aim at her mercy.
No matter a determined effort and a disciplined defensive present, coach Sheryl Ulanda’s side couldn’t uncover the breakthrough they desperately needed as Kenya held company to protected growth.
The Teen Cranes bow out of the qualifiers with heads held extreme after an encouraging advertising marketing campaign that included a commanding 6-1 combination victory over Zimbabwe throughout the earlier spherical. Nonetheless, Adhiambo’s away goal in Kampala proved the excellence as Kenya superior to the third qualifying spherical.
Kenya will now face each Tanzania or South Africa for a spot nearer to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals.
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