Teams Profile: Uganda
Nickname: Crested Cranes
FIFA RANKING: 157
HOW THEY QUALIFIED: The Crested Cranes began their journey against their CECAFA rival Ethiopia in the qualification tournament. The Ugandans survived a first-round scare, beating Ethiopia on penalties in Bahir Dar after they had their first leg 2-0 lead canceled in the second leg six days later. In the second round, they confirmed their return to the continent after 22 years of absence after receiving a walkover through Kenya’s withdrawal.
First Round – Uganda 2-0 Ethiopia (0-2) (2-1 APK)
Second Round – Uganda 3-0 Kenya (Withdrawal)
PREPARATIONS: The Cranes are scheduled to announce their provisional squad and begin camping activities for the finals on May 2, 2022. With the FUFA Women’s Super League in progress, coach George Lutalo will be monitoring the top performers in the top-flight season as they gear up for the women’s showpiece.
COACH: George Lutalo Lutalo, who handles Uganda Premier League side Onduparaka replaced erstwhile tactician Faridah Bulega as the head coach of the Crested Cranes in September 2021. He began his reign at the 2021 Cosafa Women’s Cup, where they narrowed missed a semi-final spot despite finishing Group C runners-up. A few weeks later, he guided them past neighbours, Ethiopia in the first round before sealing the ticket thanks to the withdrawal of Kenya. The former Tooro United coach is now saddle with the task of supervising the Cranes’ glory hunt in Morocco.
KEY PLAYERS
Ruth Aturo The former Kawempe Muslim FC and UCU Lady Cardinals goalkeeper have seen her domestic exploits earn her a maiden professional deal with the Finnish side FC KTP Kotka in March.
The 26-year-old, who won four league titles and the country’s best goalkeeper prize twice will bring her leadership qualities and good form to bear for the Crested Cranes on the continent.
Fauzia Najjemba The former Kampala Queens FC joined Kazakhstan champions BIIK Kazygurt, where she instantly hit the ground running, winning the Kazakhstan Women’s Cup in April. The 18-year-old, who won 2021 FUFA Female Player of the Year scored the winner in the first round home triumph over Ethiopia and is one of the youngsters to be relied upon by George Lutalo’s side.
Nambi Viola The 26-year-old is currently leading the campaign for Vaxjo’s return to the Swedish Damallsvenskan this season. Viola, who has been playing in Sweden since 2014, is well known for her speed, skills and clinical display in the front of goal. The 2012 FIFA Women’s Super League champion with St Mary’s Kitende will be a huge addition to Lutalo’s set-up in the competition.
Source: CAF