NETBALL WORLD CUP

How Ugandans reacted to She Cranes' narrow defeat to South Africa

19:20 - 03 August 2023

Anisha Muhammeed attempts to block a goal against South Africa

Uganda women's netball team, the She Cranes, fell narrowly to a 52-50 defeat to hosts South Africa at the ongoing 2023 Netball World Cup on Thursday.

The She Cranes, who were treated to a hostile home crowd, mounted a second half comeback, that nearly stole the win from South Africa after the latter had held a commanding 33-19 lead at halftime.

Close!

FT: South Africa 52-50 Uganda #NWC2023

After trailing in 3 quarters, She Cranes made a remarkable fight back in the 4th but came short amidst deafening noise from the home fans. #SheCranesTwaake pic.twitter.com/27vBAmpfyF
— Kanyomozi District (@PatriqKanyomozi) August 3, 2023

With the inspiration of Mary Nuba and Shadiah Nassanga in the absence of the ill Margaret Baagala, the She Cranes fought on to win the final two rounds.

@shecranes256 Shadiah is a national treasure. MVP against Jamaica and Against South Africa. #SheCranes #mtn #NCSC
— Adrian Tagoya (@adrian_tagoya) August 3, 2023

If it were me, I would divert the money spent on Uganda Cranes (He Cranes) to the She cranes pic.twitter.com/xxN614Jzkf
— Sudhir Byaruhanga (@Sudhirntv) August 3, 2023

Well done She Cranes. Nice Play despite the loss
— Twine 🪢 Joseph254 (@TwineJosephA) August 3, 2023

While it was defeat, the Cranes left the Ugandans in the stands and especially at home, wholly proud for not only today's display, but throughout the tournament.

U were the best
— kimera vincent (@kimeravincent8) August 3, 2023

Cant be more proud. I wish uganda was qritten allover my face😂🚩. Naye was that footwork??@BaagalaMargret @shecranes256 @marynubas2 @HanishaMuhamed .... nedda bambi abbo babi
— kyanzi_farida😈🙅🤑👻 (@f_farvis18) August 3, 2023

They now await their final game against a yet-to-be determined opponent in Sunday, a game that will determine who finishes fifth and sixth.

The worst refereeing I've ever seen at a world cup. Good Job she cranes. You fought a hard fight. You played an extra man in umpires. I have never been so furious.
— Listen and Obey (@ndyatunga) August 3, 2023