Uganda’s participation in the 2024 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers concluded on a bittersweet note as the Crested Cranes faced a heartbreaking defeat against Cameroon. In a dramatic encounter at Stade Re la Reunification in Douala, the Ugandan team succumbed to a 3-0 loss in extra time, allowing Cameroon to progress to the next stage with a 3-2 aggregate score.
Normal time concluded with a 2-0 scoreline, resulting in a level aggregate, as Uganda had secured a similar victory at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru just the previous week. The thrilling two legged clash left fans on the edge of their seats as both teams fought fiercely for a spot in the Olympic tournament.
Ajara Njoya, Monique Ngock, and Brigette Omboudou showcased their prowess on the field by each scoring a crucial goal for Cameroon, ultimately securing their path to the next phase of the qualifiers. Their collective performance demonstrated the formidable strength of the Cameroonian team.
Although Uganda’s Crested Cranes had to bid farewell to their Olympic dreams, Coach Charles Ayiekho was full of praise for his players. He acknowledged the difficulty of the circumstances in which they had competed and highlighted the determination and resilience of his team. Ayiekho expressed his disappointment but emphasized the positive takeaways from the experience, vowing to continue working hard and improving for the future.
Captain Fauzia Najjemba echoed her coach’s sentiments, recognizing the valuable lessons learned from facing some of Africa’s best teams. Despite the elimination, she believed that the players had gained significant insights and invaluable experience that would benefit them in their future endeavors.
As we reflect on the journey of the Crested Cranes in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers, it becomes evident that their determination and tenacity have left an indelible mark. The starting lineup and substitutes for the Crested Cranes in the decisive match against Cameroon are as follows:
Crested Cranes Starting XI
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Vanessa Edith Karungi | Goalkeeper |
| Desire Natooro Katisi | Defense |
| Sumaya Komuntale | Defense |
| Bridget Nabisaalu | Defense |
| Shadia Nankya | Defense |
| Joan Nabirye | Midfield |
| Jackline Adong | Midfield |
| Shamirah Nalugya | Midfield |
| Fazila Ikwaput | Forward |
| Catherine Nagadya | Forward |
| Fauzia Najjemba | Captain/Forward |
Substitutes
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Daisy Nakaziro | Midfield |
| Gloria Namakula | Midfield |
| Asia Nakibuuka | Forward |
| Zaitun Namaganda | Defense |
| Joanitah Ainembabazi | Midfield |
| Anita Namata | Midfield |
| Elizabeth Nakigozi | Forward |
| Phiona Nabbumba | Forward |
| Lillian Kasuubo | Midfield |
The Crested Cranes’ journey in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers might have ended, but their spirited performance has left a lasting impression, and they look forward to building on this experience for the future.
