Crested Cranes and Kampala Queens player Zaina Nandede has welcomed her transition in role, expressing confidence in her ability to perform regardless of position.
Despite playing as a right winger for her club Kampala Queens, Nandede has adapted seamlessly to the right-back role at the national team under coach Sheryl Botes.
“I feel comfortable playing in different positions on the pitch, whether as a forward at my club or as a defender for the national team. It wasn’t difficult for me to adapt when the coach changed my position because it’s the same wing (right). I have steadily adjusted, and it’s only a matter of knowing when to do what in each role,” Nandede stated.
So far, Nandede has played as a right-back in four international friendly matches under Botes, featuring twice against the Democratic Republic of Congo and twice against Algeria, delivering impressive performances in all games.
Uganda is currently preparing to take on Ethiopia in the first round of the WAFCON 2026 Qualifiers.
Photos from Crested Cranes training session
