Uganda conquer Malaysia to lift women’s Woodball World Cup tit
In the final on Sunday (July 26), Uganda faced a determined Malaysia side backed by home support, but the Ugandans remained focused and defied the pressure of the crowd, climate and unfamiliar turf to secure a convincing 3-0 victory.
The men's team carry the women players in celebration of winning the World Cup . (Credit: Johnson Were)
Uganda’s women’s woodball team were crowned World Cup champions after defeating hosts Malaysia 3-0 in a dominant final at the University of Malaysia Perlis City Campus.
The 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, starting with a commanding 3-0 victory over pre-event favourites Hong Kong in the quarter-finals before overcoming Chinese Taipei by the same margin in the semi-finals.
The victory over Chinese Taipei was a repeat of the 2018 World Cup final in Thailand, where Uganda defeated the same opponents to lift the title.
Aroyal Blessining, The Royal Prince of Perlis Region His Highness Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putr visited the Uganda camp in the morning. (Credit: Johnson Were)
Team captain Denise Nanjeru credited teamwork and discipline for their historic triumph.
"I’m very happy we are taking home the World Cup title, but that has been possible because of teamwork and discipline," Nanjeru said.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s men’s team finished as second runners-up after losing 2-1 to Indonesia in the semi-finals. Indonesia went on to win the title after defeating hosts Malaysia 3-0 in the final.
The men’s team, comprising Thomas Khedi, Samson Rugongesa, Daniel Apita and Bridge Byamukama, had shown strong form throughout the competition but fell short in the decisive moments.
Joyce Nalubega swings the ball during the final. (Credit: Johnson Were)
On their way to the semi-finals, they eliminated pre-event favourites Hong Kong 2-1 in the quarter-finals.
Coach Onesimus Atamba praised the team’s performance, saying the players showed focus and composure 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," Atamba added.
Earlier, the Royal Prince of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra, visited the team camp and encouraged the players to remain focused in whatever they do.