CECAFA WOMEN’S CHALLENGE CUP: Burundi stop South Sudan to qualify for semis

Burundi have booked the final semi final slot at the on-going 2019 Cecafa Senior Women’s Challenge Cup in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The team handled by Daniella Niyibimenya stopped South Sudan 3-0 in their last Group A match played at the Chamazi Stadium on Wednesday.

Burundi took a first half lead through an own goal by South Sudan’s defender Annet Adebo Vita Nakirijja.

In the second half Sakina Saidi made it 2-0 with a converted penalty before Charlotte Irankunda also scored. Burundi finished second in Group A and will face the Group leaders in Group B at the semi final stage.

Belyse Ininahhazwe, Burundi’s assistant coach said they have achieved their first objective of making it through the group for the knock out stage. “We need to improve and also learn to take our chances because it is now the knock out stage,” added Ininahahazwe.

South Sudan’s coach Simon James Yor said he was happy that they have played in a women’s tournament for the first time. “The start is always not easy, but we are happy we have finally started,” said Yor.

In the second Group A match defending champions Kilimanjaro Queens of Tanzania defeated Zanzibar Queens 7-0.

Donisia Minja and Asha Rashid netted two goals each, while Diana Lucas, Philomena Daniel and Anastazia Katunzi also had their names on the score sheet

Tanzania’s head coach Shime Bakari said he is happy with the way his team is playing. “It is good we are scoring goal with 21 now, but it’s also good we are not conceding,” said the happy Bakari.

On Thursday Djibouti will face Ethiopia in a Group B match before Kenya and Uganda Crested Cranes face-off in a match that will decide who tops the group.