Uganda’s Lady Cranes battle Kenya Lionesses as curtains come down on Rugby Africa Women’s Cup

The Lady Cranes faced the Kenya Lionesses in November 2023 at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu, and let’s just say every Ugandan wishes that story had ended there.

It was thunderous 87-03 whooping and two years later, the scars are still fresh for the six Uganda players who take to the pitch on Sunday in the Africa Women’s Cup, having been a part of that contingent that suffered at the hands of our next door neighbours.

Whereas seeking retribution for that embarrassment may be the natural reaction going into the 1 p.m. kick-off game, this cruel sport has taught us that proper preparation and not feelings shall give you a chance at winning games. The Lady Cranes have had plenty of action since April of this year in Ivory Coast, a factor that played a major role in their victory over the hosts, Madagascar. 

Going into the Kenya game, the plan is to build on that win and set aside a Kenya team that has 12 returnees from that Kisumu fixture.

The Cranes are going to be without fullback Samiya Ayikoru, who has been left out of the squad due to precautions. In her place, Mastula Namboozo starts for the first time in this tournament, in a back three that sees Latifah Tiko make a start as well, while mainstay, Janat Nandudu keeps her place. The other change in the backline is scrumhalf, Sarah Nakafeero, who makes her first appearance at the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup – 2025.

The starting forwards have remained unchanged, indicating stability in Coach Charles Onen’s side. The coaching team has again gone for a 3-5 bench split of forwards and backs, respectively, a decision that points to Onen’s game philosophy of playing a running game.

The Lady Cranes maintained their 33^rd world ranking place despite the win against Madagascar, while the Kenyans climbed up two places to 2Oth, making them the highest ranked side in Africa, just behind South Africa.

Full Squad

1. Doreen Sijali
2. Phiona Nantongo
3. Doreen Mbabazi
4. Proscovia Mukyala
5. Hellen Acanit
6. Peace Nemira
7. Suzan Adong
8. Angella Nanyonjo
9. Sarah Nakafeero
10. Bushira Namutebi
11. Latifah Tiko
12. Lydia Namabiro
13. Grace Nabaggala
14. Janat Nandudu
15. Mastula Nambozo
16. Jenepher Nakale
17. Christine Kokoi
18. Cabrine Kirabo
19. Comfort Angayika
20. Agnes Nakuya
21. Tina Akello
22. Juliet Nandawula
23. Racheal Mufuwa

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