CECAFA: Valley Warriors’ ‘Body Armours’ Too Thick For Kenya Police Bullets to Penetrate, Kawempe the Champions
Nabukenya’s Extra-Time Strike Sends Kawempe Muslim to CAFWCL
By Kayiira Jackson
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC have been crowned champions of the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA qualifiers after defeating Kenya Police Bullets 1-0 after extra time in a tightly contested final.
Captain Agnes Nabukenya scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute to seal a historic triumph for the Ugandan side and deliver their first-ever CECAFA title.
Nabukenya, who finished the tournament with four goals, pounced after Anitah Namata headed the ball into her path following a defensive error by a Police Bullets player inside a crowded danger area.
The goal finally broke the deadlock after 90 minutes of goalless football, with Kawempe Muslim having enjoyed the better chances throughout normal time.
Jovia Nakagolo, Nabukenya and Latifah Nakasi all came close to breaking the deadlock, but the Valley Warriors were unable to find the finishing touch before the match headed into extra time.
Kawempe’s dominance was also built on a disciplined defensive display. The Ugandan champions remained compact and organised at the back, restricting Kenya Police Bullets from creating clear opportunities in the final third.
Police Bullets’ Margret Kunihira, a former Kawempe Muslim and Kampala Queens player, provided one of the biggest threats with her pace and shooting ability. However, Samalie Nakacwa kept the forward under control for much of the contest.
The victory underlined Kawempe Muslim’s defensive strength throughout the tournament. The Valley Warriors completed the qualifiers without conceding a single goal while scoring 13 goals in four matches.
The triumph is particularly significant for Ugandan women’s football, as Kawempe Muslim become the first Ugandan club to win the regional CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers.
Kawempe Muslim will now represent both Uganda and the CECAFA region at the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League finals later this year.
CAF is yet to confirm the host nation and dates for the 2026 final tournament.