FIFA U17 World Cup Qualifiers
Saturday, (FUFA Stadium, Kadiba)
Second LegAt 4pm
Uganda v Zimbabwe (Uganda lead 2-0)
Teen Cranes captain Martha Babirye has struck a confident tone ahead of Uganda’s crucial return leg against Zimbabwe, insisting the team is fully prepared to seal qualification at FUFA Stadium Kadiba this Saturday.
Speaking during training at the Mandela National Stadium Annex, Babirye highlighted the squad’s sharp focus and growing cohesion as key ingredients ahead of the decisive clash.
“It’s a privilege to captain this group. The mood in camp is right, and everyone understands what’s at stake,” she noted, pointing to improved tactical awareness and confidence within the team.
Uganda head into the fixture with a solid cushion after a composed 2-0 away victory in Harare, where Immaculate Acen and Lydia Namaseruka found the net, while goalkeeper Mayimuna Namuwaya delivered a standout performance to keep a clean sheet.
Babirye emphasized that maintaining control will be critical, especially in possession and off-the-ball movement, as the hosts aim to avoid any late scares. She also credited the technical bench for instilling a more progressive approach, with emphasis on exploiting wide areas and creating space in advanced positions.
Despite Uganda’s advantage, Zimbabwe are expected to push hard in Kampala as they attempt to overturn the deficit. However, the Teen Cranes remain firmly in control of the tie and know that a disciplined display will be enough to carry them through.
The aggregate winner will advance to face either Namibia or Kenya in the next round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.Across the continent, the race is intensifying, with teams like South Africa and DR Congo already progressing. Only four nations will ultimately book tickets to the global showpiece hosted in Morocco.
