FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
Uganda U17 Women v Kenya U17 Women
Date: Today Saturday, 8th March 2025
Venue: Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo
The Teen Cranes, Uganda’s U17 Women’s National Team, will take on Kenya in a highly anticipated second-round clash of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
With both teams eyeing a spot in the next round, this fixture promises an exciting showdown between two East African rivals.
Uganda enters the match with strong momentum, having demolished Namibia on an 18-1 aggregate victory in the first round. Meanwhile, Kenya will be looking to utilize their experience, having previously participated in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The winner of this tie will advance to the third round, where they will face either Ethiopia or Cameroon for a chance to move closer to World Cup qualification.
Uganda U17 Women (Teen Cranes) coach Sheryl Botes is confident in her team’s readiness despite a short preparation period.
“We had eight days to prepare the team. From what we have done so far, we are confident we can give Kenya a run for their money.”
She emphasized the need to secure a home victory and hinted at squad changes compared to the team that faced Namibia.
Captain Agnes Nabukenya echoed the coach’s confidence, stating,
“We have been prepared well to get the win against Kenya. The team is ready to show everything that has been learnt in camp.”
However Kenya U17 Women coach Mildred Cheche expressed her team’s determination, stressing that they are fully prepared for the challenge.
“We are not worried. We are prepared. Football is a game of 90 minutes, and a lot can happen within that time.”
She also pointed out Kenya’s player development system, revealing that younger players from the U15 squad have been promoted to replace those who have moved to the U20 team.
Kenya U17 captain Halima Imbachi acknowledged the importance of the match, referring to it as a derby clash and a big day for their team.
“We know that it is a derby match between these two countries. It is a very big day for us, and we know it will not be easy. We are ready to go and face Uganda.”
