Teen Cranes Dominate Individual Awards at CECAFA U17 Women’s Championship

The Uganda U17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, scooped the most individual awards at the concluded CECAFA U17 Women’s Championship in Tanzania following their impressive title-winning campaign.

Uganda defeated hosts Tanzania 3-0 in the final to lift the trophy and successfully defend the championship they last won in 2019.

Justine Ayerango, Brenda Nassaka, and Flavia Yagala scored the goals as the Teen Cranes produced another dominant performance to secure the gold medal.

The Sheryl Botes-coached side played five matches during the tournament—three in the group stage, a semifinal, and the final—scoring an impressive 26 goals while conceding none.

Meanwhile, Kenya claimed the bronze medal after thrashing South Sudan 7-0 in the third-place playoff.

Following Uganda’s triumph, forward Shadia Nabirye was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament after her outstanding performances throughout the competition.

Goalkeeper Mayimuna Namuwaya also received individual recognition after being named the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, having kept a perfect defensive record as Uganda did not concede a single goal.

Tournament Award Winners

Champion: Uganda

Silver Medalists: Tanzania

Bronze Medalists: Kenya

Most Valuable Player (MVP): Shadia Nabirye (Uganda)

Top Scorer: Bahati Kizanguzi (Tanzania) – 10 goals

Best Goalkeeper: Mayimuna Namuwaya (Uganda)

Fair Play Award: South Sudan

photos by Kamira Asha