Botes backs Queen Cranes spirit ahead of crucial Ghana test

Uganda U-20 Women’s National Team head coach Sheryl Botes has expressed strong belief in her squad after naming the final team set to face Ghana in the first leg of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking after the team’s final training session in Uganda, Botes struck a confident tone, emphasising the unity and readiness within the camp ahead of the high-stakes encounter.

“The camp is very positive, and we are looking forward to the match. We have a good squad, and we believe in them,” she said.

Uganda will face Ghana this Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium, knowing that a strong result away from home could prove decisive in their quest to reach the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

BOTES STRUCK BY POSITIVITY AS UGANDA GEAR UP FOR GHANA SHOWDOWN

Botes acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead but remained optimistic, revealing that her technical team has done a thorough analysis of their opponents.

“We know it’s going to be a tough match against Ghana, but we analysed their game against South Africa. We believe it will be a difficult match for both teams,” she noted.

The team departed on Thursday under the leadership of head of delegation Agnes Mugena, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see the young side make history on the global stage.

Botes also rallied support from Ugandans, underlining the team’s determination to fight for qualification.

“We need all the support from the people of Uganda. We are going to fight and make you proud. World Cup qualification is a high possibility; we are going to do this for the Ugandan people,” she added.

Travelling Squad of the Uganda U-20 Women’s National Team

Goalkeepers: Lillian Nakirya, Angella Adele

Defenders: Desire Katisi Natooro, Barbara Anomo, Phiona Arach, Martha Babirye, Zabinah Nambozo, Vicky Atyeronimungu, Ritah Kadondi

Midfielders: Agnes Nabukenya, Krusum Namutebi, Imelda Kasemire, Zainabu Birungi, Patricia Nayiga, Sylvia Kabene, Peace Muduwa, Sumaya Nalumu, Angel Kigongo Auki

Forwards: Mary Katono, Yasmeen Nalukwago

Officials
Agnes Mugena (Head of Delegation), Sheryl Ulanda Botes (Head Coach), Collins Ahumuza (Assistant Coach), David Ribeiro (Goalkeeper Coach), Sefika Pelin Bal (Sports Scientist), Allan Magunda Nsubuga (Video Analyst), Mable Kabatalindwa (Team Doctor), Jackline Nakuya (Physiotherapist), Cissy Gaudensia Nakiguba (Equipment Manager), Leilah Shamirah Nabisere (Media Officer)