Uganda Teen Cranes retain regional CECAFA U-17 Women’s title – CECAFA FOOTBALL

When the CECAFA U17 Women’s Championship 2026 kicked off in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on 13th June, two debutant teams, Sudan and Somalia registered a first in the books. Their journeys were marked by challenges, breakthroughs, and a spirit of resilience that will inspire generations in Sudand and Somalia respectively..

Somalia: A Dream Awakened

For Somalia, participation itself was a triumph. Head Coach Mahad Mohamed Hagi admitted he was excited that CECAFA had created such an opportunity for his team. Though results were tough, he emphasized that this was only the beginning: “We will come back stronger than this time.”

Their shining moment came against Sudan, where Somalia secured a commanding victory. Rising star Nagma Mohamed delivered a stunning hat-trick, leading her team to an 8–2 win. That match became a symbol of hope, a proof that Somali girls could compete, score, and celebrate on an international stage.

Sudan: Courage Against the Odds

Sudan’s journey was equally historic, though filled with cultural and logistical hurdles. Assistant Coach Aisha Mohamed spoke candidly about the short preparation time and assembling a team, with cultural challenges noting parental consent that is not always a guarantee. Eitherway they did turn up in the international stage, despite these barriers and took the field with determination.

Head Coach Burhaneldin Yousif Tia Ahmed praised the effort as the start of a journey that gives hope for future progress. Sudan finished last in their group against Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia, conceding 21 goals. Yet, they celebrated two historic strikes , goals by Fatin Fadol and Naswa Abbas, moments that symbolized courage and possibility. Everybody now knows Sudan has a U17 Women’s national Team and theres is path we are creating into senior women’s team.

Beyond the Scoreline

While the scoreboards told of defeats and heavy losses, the deeper story was one of breaking barriers. For both Sudan and Somalia, this was their first-ever appearance in a CECAFA women’s youth tournament. The challenges of culture, resources, and experience were immense, but stepping onto the pitch itself was a victory.

Their participation planted seeds of progress: inspiring young girls back home, proving to federations that investment in women’s football matters, and showing the region that the future of the game is inclusive.

In Dar es Salaam, the girls of Sudan and Somalia didn’t just play football