Uganda Senior Women’s National Team head coach Firew Hailegebreal Asefa has named the leadership team that will guide the Crested Cranes in the 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifiers.
French-based defender Shadia Nankya has been appointed captain, with Ruth Aturo of Tanzanian side Simba Queens named First Assistant Captain and Vanessa Karungi of Danish club Brondby IF appointed Second Assistant Captain.
The appointments come as the Crested Cranes complete preparations for the first leg of the second round of the 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifiers against Zambia’s Copper Queens at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
Nankya returns to the captaincy having previously led the national team, including during Uganda’s successful campaign at the 2022 CECAFA Women’s Championship. She will now lead the team as the Crested Cranes begin their bid for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games.
Aturo also has previous leadership experience with the national team, having served as captain. Her appointment as First Assistant Captain gives her a key role alongside Nankya, while Karungi completes the three-member leadership team.
Uganda will host Zambia in the first leg on Thursday, 8th October 2026, at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:00pm. The return leg will be played in Zambia on Tuesday, 13th October 2026, at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
