FUFA has parted ways with Crested Cranes head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes after deciding not to renew her contract. The federation announced the mutual separation on Sunday, ending her three-year tenure with the Uganda women's national football team. The decision comes just days before Uganda faces Zambia in the second round of qualifying for the women's football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games. FUFA executive director Edgar Watson Ssuubi said the move followed a technical review of the team's performance. "We thank her for the work during the three years, and wish her the best in the future," Ssuubi said. During Botes' tenure, Uganda failed to qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, and the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Her only major title with the team came at the 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women's Championship, where she guided Uganda to victory in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The departure leaves the Crested Cranes searching for a new tactician ahead of the crucial Olympic qualifying clash with Zambia. The timing of the change has raised questions about preparation for such an important fixture. Uganda will hope the new coach can quickly settle the squad and mount a serious challenge for a historic Olympic berth.
- Coach: Sheryl Ulanda Botes
- Tenure: Three years (ended September 2026)
- Major Honour: 2026 CECAFA U-17 Women's Championship (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania)
- Missed Qualifiers: FIFA U-17 World Cup, FIFA U-20 World Cup, CAF WAFCON
- Next Fixture: Uganda vs Zambia (2028 Olympic Games Qualifier, Second Round)
Source: The Independent Uganda
