By 
Uganda’s Teen Cranes saw their dream of reaching the next stage of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers come to an end after a goalless draw against Kenya’s Junior Starlets in Nairobi on Saturday.
The result handed Kenya qualification on the away goals rule after the two sides had played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Kampala. Emily Adhiambo’s crucial equaliser in Uganda ultimately proved decisive across the two-legged contest.
Needing a scoring draw or victory to progress, the Teen Cranes delivered a spirited performance and enjoyed several promising moments throughout the match. Immaculate Achen squandered an early one-on-one opportunity, while Justine Ayerango came close with an ambitious long-range effort that drifted narrowly wide.
Uganda controlled large spells of the first half, dominating possession and dictating the tempo through a composed midfield display. Shadia Nabirye and Martha Nabirye were influential as the visitors repeatedly tested the Kenyan defence.
The Teen Cranes continued to threaten after the break, with Achen again going close after being played through on goal by a superb pass from Shadia Nabirye, only for Kenya captain Beverline Awuor to make a crucial recovery tackle.
Uganda’s best chance arrived in the 76th minute when a dangerous free-kick caused goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo to spill the ball. Joan Namakula reacted quickest but fired wide from close range with the goal at her mercy.
Despite a determined effort and a disciplined defensive display, coach Sheryl Ulanda’s side could not find the breakthrough they desperately needed as Kenya held firm to secure progression.
The Teen Cranes bow out of the qualifiers with heads held high after an encouraging campaign that included a commanding 6-1 aggregate victory over Zimbabwe in the previous round. However, Adhiambo’s away goal in Kampala proved the difference as Kenya advanced to the third qualifying round.
Kenya will now face either Tanzania or South Africa for a place closer to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals.
