On the astroturf of the St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende on Friday afternoon, Uganda needed Hadija Nandago’s solitary effort to defeat South Africa in the first leg of the U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
In the 19th minute, the attacking midfielder headed home winger Margaret Kunihira’s corner kick past South African goalkeeper Nthabiseng Ramaisha, giving Uganda a much-needed lead and victory.
South Africa drew level in the second half after Ugandan goalkeeper Daphine Nyayenga misjudged Lithemba Sam-delivery, Sam’s but Sumaya Komuntale came to the rescue with a timely clearance.
Kampala In the 81st minute, Queen’s attacker Lillian Mutuuzo came close to doubling Uganda’s lead, but her pounce on striker Fauzia Najjemba’s cross at the far post went wide.
Fauzia Najjemba, the game’s livewire forward, had the game’s final moment with a powerful close-range stunner that razed off the goal post in added time. Regardless, Uganda won at home.
Both teams will meet again in Johannesburg on December 17, 2021, before the winner on aggregate meets Ghana or Zambia in the final qualification phase for a spot in Costa Rica.
Daphine Nyayenga (GK), Sumaya Komuntale, Nantongo Aisha, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Samalie Nakacwa, Juliet Nalukenge, Hadija Nandago, Fauzia Najjemba, Margret Kunihira, Bira Nadunga, and Nakibuuka Asia make up Uganda’s XI.
Kanyago Harima, Eva Nagayi, Catherine Nagadya, Aluka Grace, Saidah Namwanje, Zaina Nandede, Mutuuzo Lillian are the substitutes.
South Africa XI: Nthabiseng Ramaisha (Gk), Sharol Dineo Ramoaka, Thimna Mpehle, Lonathemba Mhlongo, Nthabiseng Ramaisha (Gk), Nthabiseng Ramaisha (Gk), Nthabiseng Ramaisha (Gk), Nthabiseng Ramaisha (Gk), Nthabiseng Ram Fikile Magama, Zethembiso Vilakazi, Wendy Shongwe, Chelsea Joy Daniels, Sphumelele Shamase, Lithemba Sam-Sam, and Mmabatho Mogale are among the participants.
Samkelisiwe Promise Salena, Thubelihle Shamase, Nthabiseng Ronisha Majiya, and Reitumetse Mosuoe are the replacements.
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