DAR ES SALAAM: SERENGETI Girls Assistant Coach, Esther Chabruma, has called on Tanzanians to turn up in large numbers to support the national side ahead of today’s CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship final against Uganda at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania booked a place in the final after a commanding 4-0 victory over South Sudan in Sunday’s semi-final, while Uganda secured their ticket with a 3-0 win over Kenya.
Both teams head into the final unbeaten, after strong campaigns in the group stage. Tanzania recorded two wins and one draw before cruising past South Sudan, while Uganda won all three of their group stage matches and maintained form in the semifinal against Kenya.
Just after their semi-final clash, Chabruma told reporters that the technical bench had already shifted focus to the challenge posed by Uganda.
“The final is here, and we must be ready. We have analysed Uganda, and we know they are a good side, so we are preparing our team accordingly,” said Chabruma.
She also urged local fans to rally behind the team, insisting that home support could play a major role in motivating the players.
“We call upon Tanzanians to come and support the girls, because fans can give the players the energy they need in such an important match,” she said.
Reflecting on Tanzania’s semi-final performance, Chabruma praised her players for maintaining discipline despite the comfortable scoreline. “It was an important victory for us, but it was not an easy game. South Sudan were organised and had also performed well in the group,” she said. Uganda Coach, Sheril Botes, acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side, describing Tanzania as a compact team with players capable of making the difference individually.
“We are facing a different kind of team in Tanzania. They are organised and have players with individual brilliance. We will adapt according to the demands of the game,” said Botes.
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The Ugandan coach said his side entered the semi-final against Kenya with a clear game plan after previously losing to the same opponents, a factor he believes helped them produce a convincing display.
Uganda targeted an early advantage and prepared for every possible scenario, including penalties, but eventually sealed victory within normal time to set up today’s showdown against the hosts.