Uganda’s Lady Cranes secured their first victory at the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup with a dramatic 24-20 comeback win over Madagascar at Stade Makis on Tuesday afternoon.
After suffering a tough 62-6 defeat to defending champions South Africa in their opening match, the Ugandan side came into this fixture eager to bounce back.
The game got off to a bright start for Uganda when Bushira Namutebi crossed the whitewash just six minutes into the match. Although the conversion was missed, they took an early lead.
Midway through the first half, Uganda extended their advantage. In the 34th minute, Angella Nanyonjo finished off a well-executed phase play with a try, and Janet Nandudu added the conversion to push Uganda into a 12-0 lead.
However, the hosts struck back before halftime. Madagascar’s Rasoanekena Veronique found a gap in Uganda’s defense and powered over for a try in the 37th minute. While the conversion attempt was off target, the momentum had begun to shift. The Lady Cranes took a narrow 12-10 lead into the break.
Madagascar came out with intent in the second half and quickly took control of the scoreboard. A penalty converted by Ravaoharisoa Malala in the 48th minute gave the home side a one-point lead.
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Just four minutes later, Rasoanandrasana Laurence scored Madagascar’s second try, which was successfully converted by Ravaoharisoa Malala, turning the contest on its head at 20-12.
Faced with mounting pressure, Uganda showed character. In the 60th minute, they responded with a crucial try that narrowed the gap to a single point after a successful conversion. Then, in the 66th minute, Grace Nabaggala burst through the Malagasy defense to score what proved to be the match-winning try. Although the conversion was missed, Uganda had reclaimed the lead at 24-20.
Madagascar’s chances of a late rally were dealt a blow when Shahondramalala Nomenjanaharys received a yellow card in the 74th minute, reducing the hosts to 14 players. Uganda managed the final stages well and held firm to record a vital win in their campaign.
Uganda now shift their focus to the final matchday on June 15, 2025, where they will face fierce regional rivals Kenya Lionesses at 13:00 GMT in what promises to be a thrilling East African derby.
