Celtic Cup 2025 the Easy Catch for the She Cranes

By Kayiira Jackson 

Uganda’s She Cranes wrapped up their Scottish tour with a commanding 70–48 victory over the Welsh Feathers on Sunday, a result that not only secured the Celtic Cup but also reaffirmed their growing influence on the global netball scene.

What began as a stiff, high-pressure encounter quickly evolved into a showcase of experience, tactical intelligence and sheer competitive maturity—traits Uganda has long aimed to perfect as the team pushes for a return to the world’s top six.

Wales threatened an early upset, capitalising on Uganda’s slow start to open a four-goal lead. But the She Cranes responded with composure rather than panic. They steadied their passing, slowed the tempo, and re-established control through patient build-up play. Gradually, the momentum shifted.

A crucial turning point came in the second quarter with head coach Rashid Mubiru’s bold tactical switch. Midcourter Malisera Akello made way for the nimble Lillian Achola, a change that immediately eased the burden on playmaker Margaret Baagala and injected fluency into Uganda’s transitions. The attack began to purr; the defensive end followed suit.

Falidah Kadondi and Gloria Aya were immense at the back, dismantling the Welsh supply line and forcing turnovers that led to easy conversions. Their anticipation and defensive reads broke the Feathers’ rhythm and gave Uganda the kind of breathing space they had been searching for.

By halftime, the She Cranes had engineered a 12-goal lead—an advantage built on discipline, energy management, and smarter use of possession. From then on, they tightened the screws with a champion’s calm. No unnecessary risks, no costly drops in concentration, just steady, methodical dominance.

This victory capped a near-perfect run in Glasgow. After surviving Scotland’s physical intensity earlier in the tournament, Uganda’s emphatic dismissal of Wales underscored their adaptability and growing mental steel—qualities they will need in larger doses when confronting top-ten giants where every mistake is magnified. Uganda rounded 

For now, though, the She Cranes return home with silverware in hand and renewed optimism. Beyond the trophy, the bigger prize may lie in their world ranking, with the team expected to climb once the new standings are released as they warm-up for the 2025 Africa Nations Cup in Lilongwe Malawi in December.