FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Author: Ahmed Marsha

Ugandan Players Diaspora: Opondo, Wadri, Kivumbi on target as Nkata guides Gor Mahia to KFK cup victory

A weekend that didn’t have many of Ugandan players in action but nevertheless the less those who turned up pulled up great performances.

www.fufa.co.ug made the usual keen follow up to find out who was in and who was out.

Denmark:

Combative midfielder Moses Opondo found the back of the net in the 87th minute as his Odense FC crushed F. Amager 7-0 in a friendly match.

Kenya:

Creative forward William Wadri continued with his fine scoring form as he scored from the spot in the 64th minute as his Bandari FC side drew 1-1 at home against Nairobi City.

Umaru Kasumba also featured for the hosts.

William Wadri (left) takes on a Nairobi City opponent

Gor Mahia players celebrates their KFK cup success at Nyayo National stadium in Nairobi

Left back Fred Nkata Jr. was an unused substitute as his Gor Mahia FC beat AFC Leopards in the Mashemaji Derby 4-1 on penalties to win he 2021 Kenya Shield cup at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi city.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan was not in the AFC Leopards’ match day squad.

Sweden:

Ritah Kivumbi was introduced in the 79th minute and netted from his first touch as her Mallabackens W side thrashed Jitex W 7-1 in the Ellitettan League.

Viola Nambi was not in the match day squad due to injury as her Vaxjo DFF w lost 2-0 in their own backyard in the Allsvenskun Women.

Alexis Bbakka played 82 minutes before paving way for Embaye as his UMEA FC side beat Pitea 4-0 in the Division One.

Defenders Ronald Mukiibi and Isak Sewankambo were not in the match day squad as their Ostersunds FK side lost 3-1 at Degerfors in the Allsvenskun.

Algeria:

Allan Okello didn’t feature as his Paradou AC lost 3-2 at home to Aso Chief in the premier league.

Egypt:

Striker Derrick Nsibambi played full time as his Smouha lost 4-0 in their own backyard to giants Al Ahly.

Midfielder Allan Kyambadde was not in the match day squad due to injury as his El Gouna drew 1-1 at El-Entag El-Harby.

Abdu Lumala was absent as his Pyramids FC side drew 1-1 at home to ENPPI.

Morocco:

Patrick Kaddu played 85 minutes before being substituted for Naciri as his Youssoufia Berrechid lost 3-1 at Mouloudia Oujda in the Botola Pro League.

Nelson Senkatuka was not in the match day squad as as his Mogreb Tetouan lost 3-0 at Renaissance Zemarma in the Botola Pro League.

Major League Soccer (MLS):

Mustafa Kizza was an unused substitute as his Club De Foot Montreal beat Inter Miami 1-0 at home.

Forward Edward Kizza was not in the match day squad as his New England Revolution drew 2-2 at Columbus Crew.
Mike Azira played full time as his New Mexico lost 2-1 at El Paso in the USL.

Sudan:

Goalkeeper Salim Jamal was an used substitute as his Al Hilal Omdurman beat Ahli Shendi 4-0.

Midfielder Tadeo Lwanga stretches

Tanzania:

Taddeo Lwanga was in as his Simba SC lost 1-0 at rivals Young Africans in the Dar Es Salaam derby.
Czech Republic.

Edrisa Lubega wasn’t in the match day squad as his Pribram Fac lost 2-0 at Mlada in a friendly match.

South Africa:

Goalkeeper Isima Watenga helped his side Chippa United to retain the PSL status.

Goalkeeper Salim Jalim Magoola jumps to collect a high ball

Matches today (05th July 2021)

Egyptian Premier League:

Misr Le Makasa (Home to Khalid Aucho) visit Wadi Degla.

Al Ittihad (Home to Uganda Cranes captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi) visit Ismaily

Kenya:

Kariobangi Sharks (Home to Peter Lwasa) host Western Stima (Home to Martin Mpuuga and Docca Mwiru)

Compiled by Ronald Lusulire. He presents on the “Tugukyangira Bunayira” on 102.1 FUFA f.m every Tuesday from 10pm-12 midnight

MAIN PHOTO: Bandari striker Umaru Kasumba shoots during their home game against Nairobi City Stars (Credit: Bandari FC Media)

July 5, 2021
FUFA Monthly Newsletter (May & June)

Our Newsletter dubbed ‘FUFA Monthly’ is back with the latest edition covering all the key footballing events and activities that transpired in May and June. This edition covers highlights from Women football, performance of the Uganda National teams and the newly crowned League Champions Express FC. Click here

July 2, 2021
Saudi Arabia vs Uganda: Byekwaso looks forward to clash, entire Contingent tests Covid negative

Matches lined up for Uganda Cranes while in Saudi Arabia

Match 1: Friday 2^nd July, 2021 (7.15pm EAT)

Match 2: 5^th July, 2021 (Time to be communicated)

All matches at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

Uganda Cranes tactician Morley Byekwaso has expressed his delight at having a full squad after all his players and the entire 35man contingent returned Covid-19 negative results ahead of the International friendly against Saudi Arabia tonight.

Uganda Cranes were cleared to train on Thursday after they all tested negative for Covid-19. They conducted their first session at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium under the scorching sunshine at around 5pm. The temperatures have left the coach worried though the match will be played under floodlights.

Uganda Cranes players training at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

Nevertheless Byekwaso is ready with his troops for the task ahead.

‘Our training session very successful though worried about the heat here compared to Uganda at this time of the year. The players completed a wonderful session and are geared up to see that we have a good show against Saudi Arabia’ said Byekwaso.

‘We want to make use of these two matches to as we continue with reparations for the forthcoming intentional tournaments for Uganda Cranes’ added Byekwaso.

Uganda Cranes players training at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

Byekwaso has also explained why he chose Express FC Captain Enock Walusimbi to lead the team tonight.

‘About Walusimbi’s position we have appointed him as captain, he deserves it as he has led senior players of Express FC to success. He is a good leader and he has shown all characters of a Captain’. He is a good advisor and above all disciplined’ noted Byekwaso.

Second left is Uganda Cranes Captain Enoch Walusimbi who will lead the team against Saudi Arabia tonight (7.15pm EAT)

The Captain’s word Enoch Walusimbi ahead of the match;

‘I thank God and the technical team led by Coach Morley for the opportunity to lead the team, it is a big opportunity. We are ready as a team and believe the matches will sharpen us more ahead of the CECAFA tournament in Ethiopia’

Enoch Walusimbi

L-R Goalkeepers Eric Kibowa, Charles Lukwago and Matovu Hassan Muyomba training at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

FUFA Statment on the results of the 35 man contingent returning Covid-19 negative;

‘We have been consistent in managing our bubble and the stringent camp rules where players and coaches have been dismissed. It has not earned us friends but delivery of duty is top priority. Staying in our unshared Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi and FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru are part of the tactic’

Pictorial from Thursday’s training

L-R Isma Mugulusi, Saddam Masereka and Kenneth Ssemakula at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

L-R Abdul Karim Watambala, Saidi Kyeyune, Bright Anukani, Stephen Serwadda training at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium

Uganda Cranes players training at Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Stadium with striker Ivan Bogere at the extreme right

Hakim Kiwanuka

Uganda Cranes Contingent in Saudi Arabia

Goalkeepers:

Lukwago Charles (KCCA FC), Eric Kibowa (UPDF FC), Matovu Hassan Muyomba (KCCA FC),

Defenders:

Enock Walusimbi (Express FC), Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers SC), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC), Kenneth Ssemakula (BUL FC), Magambo Peter (KCCA FC)

Midfielders:

Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC), Abdul Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Kyeyune Saidi (Unattached), Steven Sserwadda (KCCA FC), Bright Anukani (KCCA FC), Isma Mugulusi (Busoga United FC), Salim Abdallah (SC Villa).

Forwards:

Mukwala Stephen Dese (URA FC), Ivan Bogere (Wakiso Giants FC), Saddam Masereka (SC Villa), Julius Poloto (KCCA FC), Richard Bassangwa (Vipers SC), Najib Yiga (Vipers SC), Hakim Kiwanuka (Proline FC), Derrick Kakooza (Police FC), Samuel Ssenyonjo (KCCA FC)

Officials:

Rogers Byamukama – Leader of Delegation

Morley Byekwaso – Head Coach

Simeon Massa -Assistant Coach

Stephen Billy Kiggundu-Goalkeeping Coach

Bashir Mutyaba – Team Manager

Emmanuel Nakabago-Team Doctor

Lawrence Bwanika – Media Officer

Samuel Mulondo -Kits Manager

Hamza Jjunju – FUFA Delegate

Sauda Babirye – FUFA Secretariat

July 2, 2021
Uganda Cranes off to Saudi Arabia for training camp, 2 friendlies lined up

The Uganda Cranes has today departed the Country for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to embark on a training camp. A contingent of 35 people, including 25 players and 10 officials left Entebbe International Airport at 11:00PM aboard Qatar Airways QR 1386.

Abdu Aziizi Kayondo with Derrick Kakooza at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday night

The trip is funded by the Saudi Arabian Football Association and while there, the Uganda Cranes will play two games against the Saudi National Team (The Falcons) on 2nd and 5th July 2021. The team will be based in Riyadh.

The training camp will help Uganda Cranes prepare for the forthcoming CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup due mid July and the FIFA 2022 World Cup-Russia Qualifiers that kick off in September this year.

The team is under the guidance of coach Morley Byekwaso, assisted by Simeon Massa while Stephen Billy Kiggundu is the goalkeeping coach.

Enock Walusimbi of newly declared Uganda Premier League champions Express FC has been appointed the team captain.

Travelling squad

Goalkeepers:

Lukwago Charles (KCCA FC), Eric Kibowa (UPDF FC), Matovu Hassan Muyomba (KCCA FC),

Defenders:

Enock Walusimbi (Express FC), Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers SC), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC), Kenneth Ssemakula (BUL FC), Magambo Peter (KCCA FC)

Midfielders:

Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC), Abdul Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Kyeyune Saidi (Unattached), Steven Sserwadda (KCCA FC), Bright Anukani (KCCA FC), Isma Mugulusi (Busoga United FC), Salim Abdallah (SC Villa).

Forwards:

Mukwala Stephen Dese (URA FC), Ivan Bogere (Wakiso Giants FC), Saddam Masereka (SC Villa), Julius Poloto (KCCA FC), Richard Bassangwa (Vipers SC), Najib Yiga (Vipers SC), Hakim Kiwanuka (Proline FC), Derrick Kakooza (Police FC), Samuel Ssenyonjo (KCCA FC)

Officials:

Rogers Byamukama – Leader of Delegation

Morley Byekwaso – Head Coach

Simeon Massa -Assistant Coach

Stephen Billy Kiggundu-Goalkeeping Coach

Bashir Mutyaba – Team Manager

Emmanuel Nakabago-Team Doctor

Lawrence Bwanika – Media Officer

Samuel Mulondo -Kits Manager

Hamza Jjunju – FUFA Delegate

Sauda Babirye – FUFA Secretariat

June 29, 2021
FUFA EXCOM decides on UPL Status 2020/2021 season

The FUFA Emergency Executive Committee has on Tuesday 29th June 2021 taken the decision to end the 2020/21 StarTimes Uganda Premier League based on Article 18, Section 1, Sub-section C & D of the FUFA Competition rules.

The above article states;

Where the league format due to circumstances of force majeure is not played to completion the league winner shall be determined as follows.

c) Where at least one club has played more than 75% of the league games, the following formula shall be used by TOC (Tournament Organising Committee) to determine the league positions.

d) Total number of points earned from the number of games played multiplied by the total number of games supposed to be played divided by the number of games played.

Therefore, the following decision have been taken

Express FC who were top of the table declared Champions of the 2020/21 Uganda Premier League.

Kyetume FC, MYDA FC and Kitara FC have been relegated to the StarTimes FUFA Big League.

URA FC who were second on the Uganda Premier League table at the time the lockdown was imposed will represent Uganda in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Stanbic Uganda Cup Status

The competition is at the Semifinal stage but the games will be played to conclusion before the start of the 2021/2022 new season.

FUFA Big League Playoffs

The games will be played to conclusion and determine the third team to the Uganda Premier League but depending on clearance from National Council of Sports and guidelines from the Ministry of Health guidelines about the Covid-19.

June 29, 2021
Broadcast of FUFA Competition matches on Television

Preamble

With the Covid-19 situation raging in the country during the final bend of the 2019/2020 season, FUFA mooted a plan to have its Competitions on Television (TV) to give fans a chance to watch the matches since they were not allowed back in the stadia.

It was also one of the ways of taking the game to the public via TV.

The broadcast started with the promotional playoffs of the Regional Leagues and the Star Times FUFA Big League.

These were produced by FUFA and broadcast on FUFA TV (Facebook Live).

Later on, the FUFA Women Competitions and Uganda Cup were also televised via UBC, the National Broadcaster.

Action between Ajax Queens and Amuria High School at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

Commercial and Broadcast Rights:

In the past, FUFA was not able to sell the commercial rights of the FUFA Women Competitions and Regional Promotions but had sold the commercial rights of the Uganda Cup at 300m UGX (85,000 USD) to Stanbic Bank and 132m UGX (37,000 USD) to Kansai Plascon.

FUFA has not been able to sell the Broadcast (Media) rights of the FUFA Women Competitions, Regional Promotions and the Stanbic Uganda Cup.

In order to create more value for the commercial rights holders of the Uganda Cup thus Stanbic Bank and Plascon, FUFA undertook to pay the cost of production and also agree with a broadcaster to air the matches.

Vipers’ Jamil Kalisa with the ball against UPDF at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende during the Stanbic Uganda Cup match in one of the televised duels

Shafik Bbosa captures the match proceedings on the main camera

Production of Matches

Production is the process of capturing the matches using Video Cameras and converting the captured video content into electric or electromagnetic or optic signal depending on the expected means of transmission.

The Signal is later transmitted normally via a telecom or satellite provider to the Broadcaster Network.

Production of a football match to be transmitted and aired live is a huge cost ranging from 30,000 USD for international feed standards to a local market price of about 5,000 USD for the current Ugandan Standards.

FUFA received a proposal by Satellite Plus Systems, a company that has been in trade with FUFA over the same business for the last about 10 years to produce 94 matches at a cost of about 1,100 USD per match.

FUFA was saving more than 75% from the local market rates for the same job.

FUFA accepted the offer and contracted Satellite Plus Systems to undertake the job.

FUFA Social media team on duty. Behind is the Satellite Media Plus Outdoor Broadcasting Van

UBC Television – FUFA Partnership:

In order to broadcast the signal produced by Satellite Plus Systems, FUFA agreed terms with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) Television to broadcast the FUFA Women Competitions Matches (56 matches) and Uganda Cup (25 matches).

National Broadcaster UBC TV has offered free airtime for the Stanbic Uganda Cup and FUFA Women football competitions with the hope of making future revenue.

There was no exchange of money from either party but a share of the revenues when eventually broadcast sponsors are found.

Inside the new HD UBC Television Studios

FUFA President Eng Moses Magogo (with microphone) addressing the media during a press conference as Stanbic Bank announced their sponsorship

Revenues:

So far, only Stanbic Bank has agreed to pay 80m UGX (22,800 USD) as a contribution to the cost of production which is about 362m UGX (103,000 USD).

There are currently over 10 prospective brands in negotiations with FUFA to be part of the Live Broadcast Sponsors of FUFA Competitions for next season.

The objective is to generate more revenues from the sale of Broadcast to cover the full costs of production, transmission, and TV airtime.

Whereas these are inelastic cost centres, the rest of the monies shall be for rights for the benefit of FUFA, Clubs, Referees, Coaches, and Players amongst others.

Hakim Matovu on Goal Angle camera 3

Joyful Ugandans cheer the national team, Uganda Cranes. Fans are pertinent of a football match

Fred “Maanso” Ssewankambo in charge of goal angle camera 1

Other Values of Football on Television:

Whereas raising value and hence more revenues is the main objective, FUFA wishes to achieve other objectives such as:

1-Extend viewership of the FUFA Competitions to Homesteads, Offices, Bars, Schools and all other places where masses of people collect;

2-Build the brands of FUFA, Competitions, Clubs, Coaches, Players and Referees;

3-Use the media content for;

a) Performance Analysis of the players and referees;

b) Archiving;

c) Second opinion on matters missed by the match officials;

d) Disciplinary Actions.

Action between Lango Queens and Wakiso Hills at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru during the FUFA Women Elite League

The capturing moment of live images during a football match

FUFA Procurement Processes:

The FUFA Executive Committee, as mandated, enacted the FUFA Procurement and Disposal Manual and FUFA has also hired a fulltime procurement officer in the names of Isaac Natukunda.

In the process of procuring Satellite Plus Systems for the production of the 94 matches, all FUFA procurement processes were followed.

Also, to note, from the documents at the disposal of FUFA received as part of due diligence, Hon. Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim (the FUFA President) is not one of the owners of the Company neither was he involved in the process of its procurement.

June 25, 2021
Latest Development: Postponement Of Fixtures In UPL, Big League And Uganda Cup

Further to FUFA Circular 1141 the FUFA Executive has decided that in view of the prevailing circumstances the following Competitions for the season 2020/21 have been postponed indefinitely;

1.   The StarTimes Uganda Premier League Match Days 27 to 30;

2.  The StarTimes FUFA Big League Play offs.

3.  The Stanbic Uganda Cup semi-finals and Final.

FUFA will communicate new dates in due course after obtaining the necessary clearance from Government.

Meantime the football family is encouraged to continue observing SOPs and abide by the Presidential Directives and Ministry of Health guidelines.

Together we can stop the spread of the Corona virus.

It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

June 21, 2021
CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup 2021: Uganda names Provisional Squad

CECAFA Senior Challenge 3rd-18th July in Ethiopia

Head coach Morley Byekwaso has named a 40 man squad for the 2021 CECAFA Senor Challenge Cup to be hosted by Ethiopia.

The tournament is for players below 23 years of age but tournament rules allow three players above that category to feature for any teams.

Uganda will take advantage of this rule and name three senior players for experience and guidance to the youngsters. The senior players named are; Goalkeepers Watenga Ismail (Chippa United FC) and Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC), Striker Yunus Ssentamu (Vipers SC), defender Murushid Juuko (Express FC) and midfielder Saidi Kyeyune (unattached).

It is form this list that three players will be named in the final squad of 23 players for the tournament.

The players will meet at FUFA House in Mengo on Friday 18^th June 2021 at 8am and then head to Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi for residential camp.

The Squad Summoned

Goalkeepers: Watenga Ismail (Chippa United FC), Lukwago Charles (KCCA FC), Otim Dennis (Express FC), Keni Saidi (SC Villa), Kibowa Eric (UPDF FC), Matovu Hassan Muyomba (KCCA FC)

Defenders: Kizito Mugweri Gavin (SC Villa), Begisa James Penz (UPDF FC), Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Kayondo Abdu Aziizi (Vipers SC), Ndahiro Derrick (SC Villa), Kaddu George (Wakiso Giants FC), Juuko Murushid (Express FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC), Ssemakula Kenneth (BUL FC), Magambo Peter (KCCA FC), Mukundane Hillary (Mbarara City FC)

Midfielders: Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Kiggundu Derrick (Soltilo Bright Stars FC), Watambala Abdul Karim (Vipers SC), Kyeyune Saidi (Unattached), Sserwadda Steven (KCCA FC), Ssenyonjo Hassan ( Wakiso Giants FC), Anukani Bright (KCCA FC), Mugulusi Isam (Busoga United FC), Kabonge Nicholas ( SC Villa), Salim Abdallah (SC Villa).

Forwards: Bogere Ivan (Wakiso Giants FC), Masereka Saddam (SC Villa), Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Basangwa Richard (Vipers SC), Yiga Nagib (Vipers SC), Kiwanuka Hakim (Proline FC), Ssentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Kakooza Derrick (Police FC), Ssenyonjo Samuel (KCCA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC), Ssebufu Frank (Wakiso Giants FC), Kambale Eric Kenzo (Express FC) and Lwanga Charles (KCCA FC).

Officials:

Byekwaso Morley- Head Coach

Massa Simeon-Assistant Coach

Kiggundu Stephen Billy-Goalkeeping Coach

Mutyaba Bashir Team Manager

Ssewanyana Ivan-Team Doctor

Bwanika Lawrence- Media Officer

Mulondo Samuel-Kits Manager

June 16, 2021
Covid-19: No more fans in stadiums at FUFA Organised and authorised Competitions

FUFA has issued Circular number 1136 directing all clubs not to admit fans to the stadiums until further notice.

The communication signed off by the FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza was issued on Thursday 3^rd June 2021.

The circular is addressed to FUFA Members, Special Interest Groups of FUFA and Stakeholders reads;

As you are all aware according to statistics from the Ministry of Health there is an upsurge in the number of COVID-19 cases as well as deaths in Uganda.

FUFA had earlier allowed up to 200 fans to watch FUFA organised and FUFA authorized competitions with strong adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This is no longer tenable in the current situation.

Therefore, in order to ensure the Health and Safety of players, Technical staff and all stakeholders, all matches shall be played without spectators or fans until further notice.

As we wind up the 1st Division, 2nd Division and the Uganda Cup there shall be no fans in the stadiums. Teams are further strongly encouraged to limit all other authorized personnel to the bear minimum. SOPs must be strictly observed and COVID-19 vaccination enhanced by football officials and players throughout the country.

It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

June 3, 2021
2020/21 Season: Kickoff of FUFA Regional Leagues Postponed

In a circular No. 1135 dated 2^nd June 2021 and signed by FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza, FUFA has taken a decision to postpone the Regional leagues that were due to kick off in the near future. The communication reads;

‘As you are all aware, according to statistics from the Ministry of Health there is an upsurge in the number of COVID-19 cases as well as deaths in Uganda. Therefore, in order to ensure the Health and Safety of players, Technical staff, and all stakeholders, the FUFA Regional Leagues anticipated for kick off in the near future are hereby postponed until further notice. Clubs and all stakeholders are advised to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccination is taken by all;

It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

June 3, 2021
She Maroons win 2020/21 FUFA Women Elite League title

FUFA Women Elite League

Final

She Maroons 1-0 Rines SS WFC

Third place playoff

Wakiso Hills 1-2 Bunyaruguru Girls FC

She Maroons FC are the Champions of the 2020/21 FUFA Women Elite League after defeating Rines SS WFC in the final played on Thursday at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

In a closely contested affair, striker Millicent Namwembe scored the all-important goal to guide the Sentries to success.

The lethal forward struck home in the 75^th minute capitalizing from the rebound after goalkeeper Elsie Najjemba had saved initially.

The final was graced by several dignitaries such as FUFA 1^st Vice President, Justus Mugisha who was the guest of honour. The others included; FUFA Executive Committee Members Issa Magoola and Chris Kalibbala plus Uganda Women Football Association Chairperson, Margaret Kubingi.

She Maroons showed class throughout the tournament, winning all the six games played, including the final.

Road to the Final

Group D

She Maroons 6-1 EHCOS WFC

She Maroons 2-1 Wakiso Hills WFC

She Maroons 1-0 Lango Queens FC

Quarterfinal

She Maroons 3-1 Ajax Queens

Semi-final

Wakiso Hills 1-2 She Maroons

Final

She Maroons 1-0 Rines SS WFC

For winning the League title, She Maroons earned a cash prize of UGX 8M while the runners-up Rines SS WFC got UGX 5M.

In the third place playoff, Bunyaruguru Girls overcame Wakiso Hills winning the game 2-1.

Norah Alupo scored a brace for the Rubirizi based outfit to end the tournament with 5 goals. Wakiso Hills got their consolation through Sarah Namatovu.

Namwembe finished the tournament as the top scorer while her teammate Joan Naggayi was named the Most Valuable Player(MVP).

Elsie Najjemba of Rines SS WFC took the goalkeeper of the tournament accolade while Kataka She were awarded with the Fair Play gong.

June 3, 2021
Covid-19: FUFA amplifies drive for Vaccination of football stakeholders

FUFA embarked on the mass vaccination exercise for the football family against Covid-19 across the country.

Having received clearance and backing from the Ministry of Health through the National Council of Sports, FUFA issued a circular for all its Members and football stakeholders to enroll for the vaccination in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The exercise at FUFA House was for all members of the Executive, Standing Committees, Judicial Bodies, Delegates, Secretariat, Clubs at all levels of both Men and Women Leagues and other stakeholders. However some players and officials have taken the vaccination from upcountry at various Government Health Centres.

For any further details in this regard the FUFA Covid 19 Official Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe on +256 700 669 922 or email apolloni04@yahoo.com.

FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Mulindwa who represented FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo

FUFA CEO Edgar Watson who led all staff for the vaccination said the aim of the exercise is to try and stop the spread of covid19. He added this is being done in partnership with Lubaga Hospital in compliance with the Ministry of Health guidelines, National Council of sports guidelines, FIFA, CAF and all stakeholders that fall in the game of football.

FUFA CEO Edgar Watson

National Beach Soccer team Head coach Salim Jamal Muwonge also got vaccinated

FUFA Exco Member Hamid Juma

FIFA Referee Issa Masembe took part in the exercise

FUFA Legal Manager Denis Lukambi had his turn for vaccination

Uganda Cranes defender and Express FC Captain Enoch Walusimbi

National Women Senior team Captain-Crested Cranes- Ruth Aturo

Uganda U-17 Head coach Hamuza Lutalo

FUFA Finance Assistant Muhamud ‘Blatter’ Kalema

FUFA Communication Department represented as well during the exercise- Conrad Musiime

Futsal heavily represented as well during the vaccination exercise

Kireka United FC’s Semwanga Norman

Buganda Region’s Walakira Mukisa Andrew from Nakaseke

FUFA Competitions Officer in Charge of the Big League Phoebe Kutamba flashed her certificate after vaccination

FUFA Competitions Officer Shirah Nakagwa will carry the same smile for the 2nd dose in three months time. She is seen here displaying her certificate after the vaccination.

Uganda Cranes and Police FC defender Muhamud Hassan

Both staff of Lubaga Hospital and FUFA after completion of the vaccination exercise in Mengo on Tuesday

MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes Players after taking their Covid-19 vaccination jab at FUFA House on Tuesday

June 1, 2021
Rines SS WFC, She Maroons sportingly promoted to FUFA Women Super League

FUFA Women Elite League

Semi-final

Rines SS WFC 0(4)-0(3) Bunyaruguru Girls

She Maroons 1-0 Wakiso Hills

She Maroons and Rines SS WFC have earned promotion to the FUFA Women Super League on sporting grounds after winning their respective Semi-final games on Tuesday at the FUFA Technical Centre.

Rines SS WFC from Buganda region overcame Bunyaruguru Girls FC in the first semifinal while She Maroons on the other hand went past Wakiso Hills.

Like it was the case in the quarterfinals, Rines SS had to endure another tense penalty shootout to advance to the finals.

Normal time ended goalless but Rines SS won 4-3 on penalties to eventually secure a slot in net season’s FUFA Women Super League.

Halima Katushabe and Adella Aine missed for Bunyaruguru while Florence Nakalule on the other hand failed to find the target for Rines WFC.

Eva Nagayi, captain Shakira Nalule, Yuster Kayesu and Catherine Wujja scored from the spot to guide the Wakiso based side to victory.

Coach Bright Nyanzi indicated the target has been achieved and dedicated the success to the late Richard Byamukama who passed on in March.

On the other hand, Bunyaruguru coach Medie Nyanzi lauded his team for the effort and believes there are positives picked that will them next season.

In the second semi-final, She Maroons fought hard to edge past Wakiso Hills thanks to Kautharah Naluyima’s first half strike.

She Maroons and Rines WFC will face on Thursday to determine the Champion while Wakiso Hills and Bunyaruguru Girls will play in the third place playoff.

June 1, 2021
Ugandan Football: Every human activity in the modern game requires expertise

Ugandan Football is a hospital where the ambulance driver undertakes brain surgery and is applauded by the gallery.

Modern Day Football is a highly technical practice that requires a lot of human expertise in;

Governance

Business

Sport

Expertise is developed by experience and/or training. A brain Surgeon is prepared for over 10’s of years and so is a football player, coach, referee, administrator and any professional support staff.

Many an occasion, you find individuals without any experience nor training, aggressively providing expert opinion on how to play, coach, officiate (as in refereeing) and administer the game.

1. A Journalist with hours of experience on air will inform the audience on how Arsene Wenger made mistakes in the team chosen or player signed and will be applauded by the audience.

2. A football administrator will dismiss a coach over failure to perform when the team is lacking basic needs and get applauds from the gallery.

3. A football fan will not buy a ticket or replica jersey but expect the referee to give a penalty to his team to win and will be applauded by the gallery

4. A Referee will make an ‘intended’ mistake that everyone at the match sees but himself and will explain using the 18th Law of the Game- the Common Sense Law.

5. A player will feel cheated for not being paid even when the club he is playing for does not make any income from his trade and will be applauded by the gallery.

6. A Coach will tell the media at the post match press conference of how his/her team lost because the referee was the 12th opponent player and will be applauded by the gallery.

We need to respect that every human activity in the modern game of football requires expertise gained over training and practice.

It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

The Author is

Hon. Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim

President of FUFA

CAF Executive

MP Budiope East

June 1, 2021
FUFA Women Elite League: She Maroons obliterate Ajax Queens to complete semi-final puzzle

FUFA Women Elite League

Sunday, 30^th May 2021

Amuria High School 0-1 Wakiso Hills

She Maroons Ajax Queens

She Maroons secured the final slot in the Semi-finals of the 2020/21 FUFA Women Elite League in scintillating fashion after obliterating Ajax Queens on Sunday.

In a one side affair, She Maroons showed their mighty and dominated in every aspect to dispatch hapless Ajax Queens.

Right from onset, all indicators showed the Prison Warders were in perfect shape and looked the better side.

As early as the second minute, the floodgates were opened as striker and captain of the day Millicent Namwembe set the tone of the game with a sweet finish.

She beat Joanita Nassali for pace to slot past onrushing goalkeeper Pamela Nakayondo, thanks to Kautharah Naluyima who set her up.

Five minutes later, Babirye produced one of the best goals at the tournament with her intended cross beating the goalkeeper and going straight into the back of the net.

With Ajax Queens still at sixes and sevens, She Maroons kept surging forward and Namwembe got her second on the day in the 13^th minute to stretch the lead further.

Ajax Queens seemed to have calmed their nerves and She Maroons contended with the big lead slowed down the tempo a bit.

At the start of the second half, Ajax Queens lost goalkeeper Nakayondo through injury and striker Annet Namwenge switched to goal.

Jacinta Nanjobe who replaced Nakayondo got the consolation for Ajax Queens with her left-footed effort beating goalkeeper Esther Akujo in the 67th minute.

She Maroons FC will face Wakiso Hills in the semifinals on Tuesday. The latter edged Amuria High School 1-0 in the first Quarterfinal on Sunday.

Full Semi-final Fixtures

Rines SS WFC vs Bunyaruguru Girls WFC

She Maroons vs Wakiso Hills WFC

SHE Maroons Starting XI

Esther Akujo, Lydia Nayunju, Justin Kiiza Najjuko, Diana Nantongo, Joelia Babirye, Jackline Adong, Joan Naggayi, Anita Babirye, Millicent, Lilian Veronica Masinde

Ajax Queens Starting XI

Pamela Nakayondo, Patricia Akiror, Joanita Nassali, Agnes Namirembe, Sharon Nanyonjo, Alizik Namakula, Moureen Nangozi, Annet Namwenge, Martha Nalubega, Margaret Nalubega, Caroline Nakyanzi

May 30, 2021
FUFA Women Elite League: Wakiso Hills stun Amuria High School to secure third semi-final slot

FUFA Women Elite League

Sunday, 30^th May 2021

Amuria High School 0-1 Wakiso Hills WFC

Wakiso Hills defied odds to overcome Amuria High School WFC on Sunday and earn a slot into the semi-finals.

Despite struggling to qualify out of Group D and garnering just 4 points, Wakiso Hills managed to defeat Amuria High School who topped Group C with 9 points and scored 12 goals.

In the absence of skipper Faridah Nanyonjo who was suspended because of card accumulation, Wakiso Hills played as one unit.

The decisive moment came in the 67^th minute when Amuria defender Josephine Atilong directed a corner kick into the back of her own net.

Amuria looked a shadow of themselves and failed to replicate the performance they had had in the Group stages.

The absence of influential captain Emmanuel Akoel and Evans Kunihira seemed to have destabilized the game approach for Amuria who looked to be at sixes and sevens.

Wakiso Hills therefore become the third team to secure a berth into the semi-finals, joining Rines WFC and Bunyaruguru.

The Antelopes will face either She Maroons or Ajax Queens who face off in the final quarter final game.

Amuria High School Starting XI

Stella Adiao, Pauline Anyakun, Slyvia Oleo, Rukia Aringo, Catherine Akello, Grace Nasongo, Rehemah Akurut, Irene Akareut, Barbara Akwii, Josephine Atilong, Martha Kongai

Wakiso Hills Starting XI

Zulaika Ayikoru, Justine Birabwa, Faith Namuddu, Jalidah Nagawa, Faridah Namirimu, Shubayiyah Namale, Catherine Tibasiima, Patricia Nayiga, Jeridah Nanyonjo, Sarah Namatovu, Slyvia Namiwanda

May 30, 2021
FUFA rewards Uganda Sand Cranes team with Shs 185.9M

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has rewarded the 24 man Uganda Sand Cranes with Shs. 185,900,000.

This is as per the FUFA allowance and bonus system for their exceptional performance at the 2021 AFCON BEACH Soccer tournament in Senegal, West Africa.

For the 22 days spent in camp preparing for and taking part in the tournament, each member of the 24-man Contingent will be entitled to; camp allowances, appearance fees, winning bonuses for matches and reaching the Semi-finals.

Therefore, each member of the contingent will earn about UGX 7.7M.

This was communicated to the team by FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye on behalf of FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo before their departure for the tournament in Senegal.

The team finished fourth at the tournament on the debut appearence.

They return home on Monday, 31st May 2021.

May 30, 2021
FUFA Women Elite League: Rines SS WFC edge Dynamic Jjeza on spot kicks to storm Semi-finals

Saturday, 29^th May 2021

King of Kings 0-2 Bunyaruguru Girls WFC

Rines SS WFC 0(5) -0(4) Dynamic SS Jjeza WFC

Rines Women Football Club became the second team to confirm their place in the Semi-finals of this year’s FUFA Women Elite League after overcoming Dynamic SS Jjeza in a closely contested game on Saturday.

The game had few scoring opportunities for either side. The two teams struggled to find the breakthrough.

For instance, the opening stanza had only two chances one falling to Shadia Nabukenya of Dynamic SS Jjeza while Rines skipper Shakirah Nalule blasted wide at the death of the clock.

In the second half, Rines started on the front foot and made several inroads but failed to find efficiency in the final third.

Substitute Yuster Kayesu nearly broke the deadlock with five minutes on the clock but her feeble effort was saved by goalkeeper Scovia Kabiiri.

In the kicks from the penalty mark, Rines WFC were perfect and had goalkeeper Elsie Najjemba to thank after saving Victoria Namakula’s effort.

Shakira Nalule, Eva Nagayi, Yuster Kayesu, Florence Nakalule and Maureen Nankinga all converted their kicks.

On the other hand, Daphine Nalubowa, Aisha Namukaaya, Frankline Natumanya and Sandra Nakalya scored for Dynamic SS Jjeza.

Rines WFC will now face Bunyaruguru Girls in the semi-finals on Tuesday. The latter overcame King of Kings in the other quarterfinal.

Rines SS WFC Starting XI

Elsie Najjemba, Catherine Wujja, Hariat Khaudah, Hilder Nankya, Peace Aloyo, Anitah Nantume, Lydia Nababi, Shakirah Nalule, Eva Nagayi, Maureen Nankinga, Betty Nakubulwa

Dynamic SS Jjeza Starting XI

Scovia Kabiiri, Frankline Natumanya, Dorothy Nagawa, Lillian Kataike, Phiona Namusoke, Sandra Nakalya, Shadiah Nabukenya, Daphine Nalubowa, Cythia Morgan, Victoria Namakula, Aisha Namukaaya

May 29, 2021