Uganda’s WAFCON 2026 hopes ended after a dramatic loss to Ethiopia, who overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit and won on penalties 5-4. Both teams displayed strong performances, but Uganda’s key player red card and missed penalties sealed their fate. Ethiopia advances to the next round, while Uganda faces disappointment once again in Addis Ababa.
In a dramatic turn during the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers, Uganda’s journey ended disappointingly against Ethiopia. Despite leading 2-0 from the first leg, Uganda saw their advantage vanish in a penalty shootout following a 2-0 loss in the return match in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia triumphed 5-4 on penalties, mirroring Uganda’s previous history in similar circumstances from 2021.
The match commenced with Uganda optimistic after their home win, but Ethiopia quickly asserted dominance. Early opportunities for Ethiopia saw star player Loza Abera miss two critical chances, while Ugandan goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro, filling in for the injured Ruth Aturo, made key saves.
The match changed drastically when Ugandan player Fazila Ikwaput received a second yellow card for a foul, reducing Uganda to ten players. Ethiopia exploited this advantage, with Aregash Tadese scoring the equalizer in the 70th minute, followed by a stunning free kick by Etsegenet Girma during stoppage time to level the aggregate score and force penalties.
In the shootout, Ethiopia successfully executed four of their penalties, while Uganda’s Phiona Nabbumba missed a crucial attempt, ultimately leading to a 5-4 defeat for Uganda. Ethiopia’s next challenge awaits against either Tanzania or Equatorial Guinea, while Uganda’s aspirations for WAFCON 2026 come to a painful conclusion once more.
Uganda’s exit from WAFCON 2026 qualifiers highlights their struggle against pressure in decisive moments, specifically in penalty shootouts. Despite a commanding first-leg victory, they faltered in crucial situations and lost a second-leg lead to Ethiopia. Historical performance reoccurs, marking a significant setback for Ugandan women’s football, now looking to rebuild and learn from this experience.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
