Kampala Queens used their final group outing at the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers to make a statement—not just with the scoreline, but with the breadth of talent at their disposal. Their 7-0 demolition of Eritrea’s Denden FC at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi was less about the three points, and more about showcasing a squad that looks increasingly built for continental football.
The Ugandan champions rotated smartly, yet never lost their edge. Goals came from every angle—Kamiyat Naigaga’s explosive runs, Peace Muduwa’s clinical finishing, and Turist Lema’s composure in front of goal—but perhaps the bigger story was how debutants and squad players seamlessly slotted in.
New signing Precious Phiri impressed on her first outing, adding creativity and energy to the flanks, while teenage goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu Norah was thrust into action after Daisy Nakaziro’s injury. The youngster held her nerve, showing Kampala Queens have depth even between the posts.
Coach Asefa Firew Hailegebreal’s side now sit atop Group A, at least temporarily, with a staggering +6 goal difference. Whether they qualify automatically or have to wait on results from the Kenya Police Bullets–Denden fixture, the Queens have already sent a strong message: this is a team not dependent on one or two stars, but on a collective.
Even in moments of adversity—like losing their starting goalkeeper—they remained ruthless, with Naigaga, Lema, and Muduwa each bagging a brace before a late own goal sealed the rout. Denden never recovered, and their brief offside “goal” only underlined Kampala’s dominance.
The emphatic performance was not just about points on the table; it was a reminder that Ugandan women’s football has matured to a level where even debutants can rise to the continental stage without fear. For Kampala Queens, the bigger battles are still ahead, but in Nairobi they proved that their squad depth could be the difference between surviving and conquering Africa.
