Chloe N’gazi. Photos courtesy Chloe N’gazi Facebook and X accounts.
The Uganda women’s national football team, the Crested Cranes, wrapped up their Algeria tour on Saturday with a narrow 1-0 defeat in an international friendly at Tchacker Stadium, Blida.
Ghoutia Karchourni’s expertly delivered free kick in the 34th minute secured the victory for the hosts, handing the Crested Cranes their second loss after a 2-1 defeat in the first encounter last Wednesday.
Despite the setbacks, Algeria's goalkeeper Chloe N’gazi, who plays for French side Le Havre Women FC, heaped praise on the Crested Cranes, noting their marked improvement since their last meeting during the WAFCON qualifiers in September 2023.
“The Crested Cranes look much better than the last time we played them. Players are so fast with good technique and good tactics. I admit we had a very tough time to transit because of their high pressing game with a lot of intelligence. They are strong physically, tactically, and technically getting better. It was indeed hard to play them,” said the French-born goalkeeper.
Uganda showcased resilience throughout the tour, demonstrating improved coordination and high pressing against a strong Algerian side.
However, the Cranes couldn’t avenge their WAFCON qualifying exit, where Algeria advanced with a 3-2 aggregate win. The team will draw lessons from the matches as they continue preparations for upcoming regional and continental engagements.
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