Uganda exited the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers after a shocking penalty shootout defeat to Ethiopia, who overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit. Following a tense match that ended 2-0, the teams went to penalties, with Ethiopia winning 5-4. Key moments included Uganda’s Fazila Ikwaput receiving a red card, which shifted the match’s momentum in favor of the host team.
Uganda’s aspirations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) ended dramatically as they succumbed to a penalty shootout defeat against Ethiopia. After securing a 2-0 advantage in the first leg, Uganda faced disappointment when Ethiopia rallied to equalize and force penalties, ultimately winning 5-4 in the shootout held in Addis Ababa.
The match unfolded with Uganda initially displaying confidence due to their prior victory at home. However, reminiscent of their experience in 2021, they struggled in Ethiopia, unable to withstand the pressure. Despite Uganda’s offensive intentions, the turning point came when Fazila Ikwaput received a second yellow card, leaving them one player short.
Ethiopia seized the opportunity, scoring two goals—one from Aregash Tadese in the 70th minute, followed by a brilliant free kick from Etsegenet Girma in stoppage time. These goals were pivotal in leveling the aggregate score, thrusting the match into a penalty shootout, where Ethiopia maintained composure to secure their advancement.
During the shootout, each of Ethiopia’s initial shooters converted their penalties, while Uganda performed well until Phiona Nabbumba’s crucial miss proved detrimental. In sudden death, it was Ethiopia’s Berkie Amare who scored, while Uganda’s Resty Kobusobozi failed to convert, finalizing the score at 5-4 in favor of Ethiopia, thus concluding Uganda’s campaign in the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers.
In summary, Uganda’s journey in the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers ended in heartbreak, echoing past challenges faced in similar circumstances. The team’s inability to maintain their first-leg advantage and cope with the pressures of the penalty shootout proved decisive, as Ethiopia capitalized on their chances, ultimately progressing to the next round of the tournament.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
