Uganda Crowned Women’s Woodball World Cup Champions After Beating Malaysia
Uganda have been crowned women’s Woodball World Cup champions after a dominant 3-0 victory over hosts Malaysia in the final held yesterday at the University of Malaysia Perlis City Campus.
The Ugandan women’s team, comprising Sanyu Mirembe, Joyce Nalubega, Denise Nanjeru, Joan Mukoova, Shakira Nagudi, Florence Mukooya and Babirye Nalwoga, produced a masterclass performance throughout the knockout stages to claim the prestigious title.
Uganda began their title charge with a convincing 3-0 victory over pre-tournament favourites Hong Kong in the quarterfinals before defeating Chinese Taipei by the same scoreline in the semifinals.
The victory over Chinese Taipei was a repeat of Uganda’s success at the 2018 Woodball World Cup in Thailand, where the Ugandan women also defeated the same opponents in the final to lift the world title.
In the final, Uganda faced hosts Malaysia, but the home advantage did little to unsettle the East African side. Despite the pressure from the home crowd and the challenging climate and turf conditions, Uganda remained focused and disciplined to complete a commanding 3-0 victory and secure the gold medal.
Team captain Denise Nanjeru attributed the historic triumph to teamwork and discipline within the squad.
“I’m very happy we are taking home the World Cup title, but that has been possible because of teamwork and discipline,” Nanjeru said.
Uganda also secured a podium finish in the men’s competition, emerging as second runners-up after suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to Indonesia in the semifinals.
Indonesia went on to win the men’s World Cup after overpowering hosts Malaysia 3-0 in the final.
The Ugandan men’s team, comprising Thomas Khedi, Samson Rugongesa, Daniel Apita and Bridge Byamukama, had put up a strong display throughout the competition and secured a notable 2-1 quarterfinal victory over pre-tournament favourites Hong Kong.
However, their impressive run came to an end in the semifinals against Indonesia, with the Ugandans unable to get the better of their opponents in the decisive moments.
Coach Onesimus Atamba praised his players for maintaining their composure and focus during a highly competitive tournament.
“It is not easy to be a world champion, and I thank the players who were focused and controlled the pressure because the games were very competitive and tight,” Atamba said.
“These victories are going to motivate these players tomorrow as they play the doubles and singles in the stroke competitions,” he added.
Earlier, His Highness Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra, the Royal Prince of Perlis, visited the Ugandan team camp and encouraged the players to remain focused and committed in everything they do.
Uganda’s women’s triumph, coupled with the men’s third-place finish, marks another significant achievement for the country on the international Woodball stage.