Uganda’s Crested Cranes bounced back strongly at the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship with a resounding 5-0 victory over South Sudan on Sunday evening at the Azam Complex in Chamazi, Tanzania. After a disappointing opening 1-0 loss to Burundi, the defending champions showcased dominance and flair, sweeping aside their opponents in a one-sided affair.
Sylvia Kabene’s Masterclass
The night belonged to Sylvia Kabene, who delivered a first-half masterclass with a sensational hat-trick that left South Sudan reeling.
Kabene opened the scoring in the 6th minute, and Shamirah Nalugya doubled the lead with a brilliant free kick four minutes later. Captain Zainah Namuleme added to South Sudan’s misery with a composed penalty conversion in the 16th minute, before Kabene struck again in the 22nd and 34th minutes, effectively sealing the win before halftime.
Controlled Second Half
With the result beyond doubt, Uganda controlled the second half with ease, opting for game management over relentless attack. The Crested Cranes remained solid at the back, preserving a clean sheet and ending the day with renewed belief in their title defense.
Renewed Title Hopes
The emphatic victory lifts Uganda’s spirits and reignites their quest for back-to-back CECAFA crowns, putting them in a strong position ahead of their final group game. Their next challenge will be a highly anticipated showdown against arch-rivals Kenya, who are also in good form after a convincing 3-0 win over Burundi. The midweek clash promises fireworks and could decide the group’s pecking order.
