The FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers heat up this afternoon as Uganda’s Teen Cranes host long-time rivals Kenya in a highly anticipated second-round first-leg clash at the FUFA Stadium in Kadiba.
Beyond the dream of reaching the World Cup, the fixture serves as an ultimate redemption mission for Uganda.
In the last edition of the qualifiers, Kenya handed the Teen Cranes a bitter pill to swallow, eliminating them 5-0 on aggregate.
Despite the history, Uganda head coach Sheryl Botes is heading into the East African derby oozing with confidence.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Botes revealed that her technical team has spent the week fine-tuning tactical details to ensure the girls are mentally and physically primed for the task.
“We have worked on the key details to put the players in good shape. The atmosphere is positive,” a confident Botes stated.
Acknowledging the tactical threat posed by the visitors, Botes insisted her team is ready for whatever Kenya throws at them, prioritising a win at all costs to take control of the tie.
“It’s not our first time playing against Kenya, and we know what they bring. We know it is going to be a competitive match, but our aim is to win,” she added.
While the Teen Cranes concluded their final preparations on Thursday morning at Kadiba, Kenya’s head coach Mildred Cheche opted for an early arrival.
The Junior Starlets have been camping in Uganda for over two days, acclimatising to the local conditions as they look to disrupt Uganda’s home advantage.
Both teams enter the tie in blistering form. Kenya booked their spot in this round by dismantling Namibia 7-1 on aggregate, while Uganda ruthlessly dispatched Zimbabwe with a 6-1 aggregate scoreline.
With both sides proving they know how to find the back of the net, fans should expect an explosive, attacking affair.
The winner on aggregate after 180 minutes will progress to the next round to face either South Africa or Tanzania.
With home support behind them and Coach Botes demanding a statement win, the Teen Cranes are expected to fight tooth and nail.
