Kampala Queens ready for CECAFA Zonal Challenge against hosts Kenya Police

CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers

Thursday 4th( Nyayo Stadium)

CBE FC v Rayon Sports 1pm

Kenya Police v Kampala Queens 4pm

Kampala Queens assistant coach Sharon Kiiza has described the opening fixture against hosts Kenya Police Bullets FC as a welcome challenge for her side as they kick off their campaign in the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.

“The players are ready and focused. They’ll have the opportunity to showcase their talent, and we’re committed to working hard to progress from the group,” Kiiza said. “It’s a good challenge to start against the hosts.”

The Uganda Women Premier League champions have already arrived in Nairobi ahead of the tournament, which runs from September 4 to 16, 2025.

Drawn in Group A, Kampala Queens will face Kenya Police Bullets FC and Eritrea’s Denden WFC. Their opening match is scheduled for Thursday, September 4 at Nyayo Stadium.

On Tuesday, September 2, the team officially unveiled new goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu Norah, who joins from Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC. Kaidu is part of the traveling squad for the qualifiers.

The team has also bolstered its ranks with international talent, including Zambian duo Precious Phiri and Square Maiwase from Luyando Foundation Sports Academy, and Ethiopian players Amedu Meadin Sahilu and Tone Turist Lema.

Additional Ugandan signings include Jolly Kobusinge (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Catherine Wujja (Rines SS WFC), and Amangat Marrion (Olila High School WFC).

Former Kickstart FC (India) midfielder Joanitah Ainembabazi has joined Kampala Queens on a two-year deal. Meanwhile, key players Jamirah Nabulime and Catherine Nagadya have extended their contracts, with Nagadya now committed to the club until 2027.

On the departure front, Zaina Nandede has signed with Simba Queens in Tanzania, while goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro and captain Shamirah Nalugya have also exited. Nalugya has joined FC Minsk in Belarus.

In preparation for the qualifiers, Kampala Queens played two friendly matches—losing 4–1 to Msingi Soccer Academy boys before bouncing back with a commanding 7–1 win over UCU Lady Cardinals.

Coach Kiiza reiterated the team’s determination: “The players are focused, and we shall work so hard to get out of the group.”

Only the top team in each group and the best second-placed team will advance to the semi-finals. The overall winner will represent the CECAFA region at the CAF Women’s Champions League 2025.

Defending champions Commercial Bank of Ethiopia will begin their title defense against Rayon Sports WFC on the same day.

Kampala Queens will be aiming to redeem themselves after a disappointing 2023 campaign, where they exited at the group stage despite hosting the tournament.