Botes hails 'disciplined' Teen Cranes after 2-0 win in Zimbabwe

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Zimbabwe 0 Uganda 2

Uganda U-17 women’s national team coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes has admitted that her side was dominant against Zimbabwe in the first leg of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, but insisted the job is not yet done after a 2-0 away victory in Harare on Sunday.

“Uganda was by far the better team, and we could have scored more goals, but the good thing was the players showed discipline, confidence and kept going from the first minute to the last,” Botes said.

Immaculate Acen gave Uganda an early lead in the 11th minute with a composed finish after outpacing the Zimbabwe defence, before Lydia Namaseruka doubled the advantage four minutes later with a powerful strike from outside the box.

“We started well, and our plan worked perfectly in both attack and defence. Scoring early gave us control, and the second goal allowed us to manage the game better. Even when Zimbabwe improved, we stayed organised and controlled the match,” she added.

Zimbabwe attempted to respond after the early setback, but Uganda remained compact and disciplined in defence. Goalkeeper Mayimuna Namuwaya produced key saves to preserve the clean sheet as Uganda managed the game with composure.

“Of course, we think we could have scored more, but at this stage of the competition, it was also about control and game management. The players showed maturity, but we must stay focused because the tie is not finished yet,” Botes said.

Botes also defended her team’s approach in the second half, saying Uganda had to manage the game carefully after taking an early lead while still remaining a threat in attack.

“We understood the importance of controlling the tempo after going 2-0 up. The players managed the match very well and showed great discipline without losing focus going forward,” she explained.

Uganda now turns its attention to the return leg, with the coach stressing the need for focus and discipline.

“We respect Zimbabwe because they are a strong side, and we know the second leg will be difficult. Our target is to stay concentrated, finish the job at home and make Uganda proud,” she said.

Uganda will host Zimbabwe in the second leg on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at FUFA Stadium Kadiba, with the winner on aggregate set to face either Namibia or Kenya in the next qualifying round.

The match is part of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, which have attracted 31 teams across Africa and will be played over three knockout rounds. Only four African teams will qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, where they will join the hosts.