Khalid Aucho has been dismissed from Uganda Cranes Camp for failure to adhere to the National team Code of Conduct and FUFA Circular dated 4th March 2021.
Uganda Cranes is preparing for two crucial AFCON Qualifiers against Burkina Faso and Malawi due next week.
Aucho refused to board the official means of transport organised to pick him from Entebbe International Airport to the team camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel-Kisasi and has not even reported to camp since his arrival in the country.
The player’s club Misr El Makkasa and Egypt Football Association A have duly been informed about the decision and a return air ticket has been issued to him for his travel back to Egypt.
The Uganda National Beach Soccer Team (The Sand Cranes) were treated to good news on Thursday evening after confirming qualification to this year’s Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations.
The development came as a result of Ghana withdrawing from the qualifying phase thus gifting the Sand Cranes an opportunity of playing at the finals for the first time.
The players who were already in camp at the FUFA Technical Centre received the news with delight and can’t wait to represent Uganda at the Championship slated for 23rd -29th May 2021.
Below is what some of the players said;
Meddie Kibirige – Team Captain
Uganda Sand Cranes goalkeeper and captain Meddie Kibirige.
‘It’s an amazing feeling for the hard work and commitment we have put up in the past years. Finally it has paid off. I dedicate this to the UBSA Chairman, Mr .Deo Mutabazi.’
Suleiman Ochero ‘I am so happy and I cannot explain what I feel in my heart. It’s been a long journey with so many heartbreaks when we didn’t use our chances. This time, we knew what we needed after committing mistakes in the past but good enough Ghana has cleared our way . We had the chance to correct. Uganda beach soccer will change as the world will know more about Uganda.‘
Suleiman Ochero (in red) playing for the Sand Cranes
Baker Lukooya
‘It’s a miracle from God because I was only recalled to the team after four years. The last time I played qualification , Ghana humiliated us. It will change our mentality as national team players and a chance for the game of Beach Soccer to change for the better.’
Suleiman Ochero(R) and Baker Lukooya(M) listening to coaches in training.
Godfrey Lwesibwa ‘It was God’ plan for us to qualify for the AFCON Beach Soccer. We shall definitely use this opportunity to express our abilities as players.‘
Uganda Sand Cranes’s player Godfrey Lwesibawa in action.
Rica Byaruhanga
‘Success is sweet. But it’s sweeter when its achieved thorough co-ordination, cooperation & collaboration. Thank you to all of you for delivering such great teamwork and glory be to God .‘
‘I have been waiting for this moment, working tirelessly but finally .it is here and can’t wait to represent Uganda at such a stage.‘
Rica Byaruhanga passes the ball during a recovery training session
Deo, Mutabazi – UBSA Chairman
‘From our humble beginning in 2009, I even feel emotional that we have been able to come this far. Qualification is a true reflection of our efforts from the players, coaches and every stakeholder.’
Uganda Beach Soccer Association Chairman Deo Mutabazi
Uganda national Beach Soccer Team- Sand Cranes has Qualified for the 2020 AFCON Beach Soccer Finals to be hosted by Senegal this year.
Uganda’s opponents Ghana were due to play Uganda over two legs starting with the first fixture at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on 27th March 2021 but the West African giants withdrew from the tournament.
In a communication sent to FUFA by CAF partly reads;
‘Kindly note that Ghana FA has officially withdrawn from the Beach Soccer AFCON. Accordingly, the above mentioned two qualifying matches have been cancelled and Uganda is automatically qualified to the Final Tournament of Beach Soccer AFCON’
The FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein Confirmed the latest developments.
‘We have received communication form CAF in regard to the Beach Soccer Finals. FUFA National Teams Department will provide further guidance on the team camped in Njeru. However we also need to know that there is little time left as the tournament in in May this year. We were supposed t host the tournament in 2020 but passed on the opportunity back to CAF to find a replacement. Now we have the right to play at the Finals’
Goalkeeper Nasser Lwamunda blocks a shot during training. Teh Sand Cranes have been in camp preparing for the qualifier against Ghana
Uganda that started playing beach soccer in 2009, will make its maiden show at the tournament.
From the past-League action: Nkumba University’s Isaac Otto goes for an acrobatic kick during the Uganda Beach Soccer league game at Lido beach Entebbe Nkumba Beat KIU 8-1 With Otto scoring twice.
About Beach Soccer and Futsal in Uganda
16 Facts: Beach Soccer in Uganda
Beach Soccer was introduced in Uganda in 2009
National beach Soccer League (Men) started in 2010 at Lido Beach Entebbe
Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) became a member of FUFA in 2012
The Uganda Women Beach Soccer League started in 2014
Uganda has close to 100 Beach soccer clubs (League and non-League teams).
Uganda Sand Cranes was formed in 2014 and made their maiden international bow in the same year against Zanzibar
The Chairman of Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) is Deo Mutabazi
Sand Cranes featured in AFCON Beach Soccer qualifiers- 2015, 2018 and 2020.
Sand Cranes has featured in the Copa Dar es Salaam tournament since 2017
Uganda has 4 FIFA Beach Soccer referees
Uganda has a CAF Beach Soccer Instructor Ali Mwebe
Uganda has 30 qualified National Coaches
FIFA Beach Soccer referee Ivan Kintu has officiated at 2 AFCON Beach Finals (2016 and 2018)
FUFA President is the Chairman of the CAF Futsal and Beach Soccer Committee
Three Ugandans are on the Africa Beach Soccer Union
Uganda has on off-shore beach soccer pitch at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru
Dear Sports Media, Follow the link below to apply for accreditation to cover the Total AFCON 2021 Qualifier match Uganda vs Burkina Faso on Wednesday 24.3. 2021 at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
The deadline for application is Saturday 20.3. 2021 ia 5pm (EAT).
Note:
1-The Media that got accredited for Uganda vs South Sudan but never picked their tags will not be considered for this match.
We shall pass on the opportunity to other media representatives.
2-The International Matches Organising Committee (IMOC) reserves the right of admission.
The Uganda National Beach Soccer Team (The Sand Cranes) has on Monday entered residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru to start preparations for the forthcoming 2021 Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations qualifiers due this month.
Uganda will face Ghana in a double legged affair, with the first leg taking place at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on 27th March and a return leg away in two weeks’ time.
The team began preparations with a double session at the newly constructed Beach Soccer Facility at the Technical Centre.
Goalkeeper Nasser Lwamunda blocks a shot during training.
11 of the 20 players summoned attended Monday’s training with the rest who still have engagements with teams in the Uganda Premier League expected to join camp by Thursday morning.
These include Captain Meddie Kibirige, Douglas Muganga, Samson Kirya, Brian Nkuubi, Jamilu Maliyamungu, Paul Kato, Alex Emmanuel Wasswa, Rica Byaruhanga and Godfrey Lwesibawa.
Caoch Salim Jamal Muwonge was impressed with the first day and believes the players will be in good shape before the matches.
Sand Cranes head coach Salim Jamal Muwonge(R) and his assistant, Peter Seguya
‘Many of the players have not been active and therefore, the first task is to work on their fitness levels and make sure they are in good shape before the games. We believe entering in camp will have us to access every player.’ Said the coach
Goalkeeper Nasser Lwamunda is optimistic that with better preparations, the team will achieve the target of qualifying to the final tournament.
Sand Cranes goalkeeper Nasser Lwamunda.
‘Our target is to go past Ghana and qualify for the final tournament and I believe better preparations will help us achieve that. We have started off well and hope to keep the same momentum ahead of the games.’
Uganda will host Ghana on 27th March 2021 at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru with the return leg coming between 9th-10th April. The winner on aggregate will qualify for the final tournament slated for May in Senegal.
Suleiman Ochero(R) and Baker Lukooya(M) listening to coaches in training.
Paul Lule (Buganda Royal), Davis Kasujja (MUBS), Douglas Muganga (MUBS), Paul Kato (Buganda Royal), Suleiman Ochero (St. Lawrence University)
Midfielders:
Peter Mukwata (Mutoola Beach), Swaibu Kakwaya (Buganda Royal), Alex Emmanuel Wasswa (St. Lawrence University), Ronald Magwali (Buganda Royal), Rica Byaruhanga (Isabet)
Forwards:
Ismail Kawawulo (MUBS), Brian Nkuubi (St. Lawrence University), Said Munir (MUBS), Swalleh Ssimbwa (St. Lawrence University), Godfrey Lwesibwa (Buganda Royal), Baker Lukooya (St. Lawrence University)
Dr. Patrice Motsepe has on Friday been voted as the new President of the Confederation of African Football(CAF).
Motsepe who was unopposed was confirmed as the new President during the 43rd CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Rabat, Morocco. His four-year tenure will run between 2021-2025.
The South African business mogul who is also the owner of PSL side Mamelodi Sundowns replaces Ahmad Ahmad who has been the CAF President since 2017.
The CAF Executive Committee Representatives for the Zones that constitute the continental football body were also voted at the same Assembly and are as follows;
Wadie Jary (Tunisia) – North
Mustapha Raji (Liberia) – West A
Seidou Mbombo Njoya (Cameroon) – Central
Djibrilla Hamidou (Niger) – West B
Souleiman Waberi (Djibouti) – Central East
Elvis Chetty Flag (Seychelles)- South
Maclean Letshwithi (Botswana) – South
Kanizat Ibrahim (Comoros) – Female
Going to the General Assembly, Africa adopted a unity stance which saw other three candidates, namely Augustin Senghor, Ahmed Yahya and Jacques Anouma withdraw from the race to be President.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was in attendance in Rabat in his remarks in the General Assembly commended the African Member Associates for the unity they have displayed in the last few weeks.
Dr. Motsepe, 59, is an accomplished South African businessman and philanthropist and no stranger to football. For almost two decades, he has been the President of a South African club, Mamelodi Sundowns.
FUFA has on Wednesday held a consultative meeting with Women Football Club officials and also give an update about the restart of both the FUFA Women Super League (Top tier league) and the FUFA Women Elite League (2nd Division).
The meeting held at Jevine Hotel in Lubaga saw Clubs and FUFA deliberate on a number of issues in regard to the various competitions on how they can resume bearing in mind the prevailing circumstances of COVID-19.
A section of Club Officials who attended the meeting.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kizza who represented FUFA 2nd Vice President, Darius Mugoye as the guest of honour at the function lauded officials for sustaining teams amidst the challenging economic environment.
“As FUFA, we extend our sincere appreciation to clubs and owners for staying afloat despite going almost a year without any engagements. We do not take this for granted and we laud you for promoting the game of football,” he said in his opening remarks.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza making a presentation during the meeting.
“The purpose of this meeting is to see how competitions resume but bearing in mind that the principle of protecting health and wellbeing of everyone remains paramount as guided by FIFA. We have registered for International engagements for our national teams and therefore, to have players who are active domestically is important.
FUFA has registered for 2022 Africa Women Cup of Nations Qualifiers, U20 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers and U17 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Ahead of the resumption of the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League, Ivan Kintu Bayige the FUFA Club Licensing Mananger confirmed that both licensing of clubs and the FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda will be effected prior to the start of the season.
FUFA Club Licensing Manager Ivan Kintu Bayige.
“As a requirement prior to the start of every season, FUFA must carry out Club Licensing and FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda as tools to help us attain professionalism. We are aware of the challenges especially in these COVID-19 times and some regulations have been loosened abit.” He said.
Club Licensing covers five main aspects and these include;
Sporting
Administration and Personnel
Finance
Infrastructure
Legal
Some of the minimum requirements that must be adhered to both by teams in the first and second division include;
Sporting
Each Club must have a certified coach. For the FUFA Women Super League, the minimum is CAF C and must be contracted while any grade will work for the FUFA Women Elite League.
A club is mandated to have an assistant coach. For this season, he/she may be contracted or not.
Clubs both in the FUFA Women Super League and the FUFA Women Elite League must have a medical officer.
Clubs in the FUFA Women Super League will be required to have a minimum of five players who are contracted.
Administration and Personnel
Clubs in the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League must have CEOs. In the top division, CEOs must be contracted.
Finance
Every Club will be required to have a finance officer who will monitor the club incomes and expenditure and also help in budgeting of clubs.
A marketing and Communication officer will also be a requirement for every club acros the two leagues.
Infrastructure
It is a must for every club in the FUFA Women Super League to have a physical address(office) that is open regularly.
Clubs will also be required to have a match day field and a training ground.
Legal
Clubs as a requirement must declare their ownership to FUFA.
Compliance to FUFA regulations is also a must for clubs to participate.
Clubs will also be required to show their constitutions prior to the start of the season.
The FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda on the other hand covers 11 areas and this will be done per club a few days to the start of the new season.
The 11 key Players in the Club Pro Agenda
1- Goalkeeper-Structures
2- Right-Back-Finances
3- Left-Back-Medical
4- Centre-Back-Facilities
5- Libero-Stadium
6- Central Midfield-Senior Team
7- 7-Right Wing-Youth Set up
8- Central Midfield-Marketing
9- Forward-Fans
10- Forward-Communications
11- Left Wing-Event Management
Update on 2021 Season
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajatti, Aisha Nalule confirmed that the new season has been given a greenlight to resume after a year without action.
However, due to the prevailing circumstances in regard to COVID-19, there have been changes in the playing format.
“The FUFA Executive Meeting gae us the greenlight to resume Women Football competitions but within the guidelines of COVID-19. Therefore, there will be changes in the playing format with teams converging in one place unlike the home and away arrangement we have had in the past.” She said.
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajjati Aisha Nalule
Both the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League will be played in a tournament format.
FUFA Women Super League
The FUFA Women Super League kick-off date has been set for 11th April 2021 at FUFA Technical Centre.
The 10 teams have been divided into two groups of five with the top two in each advancing to the Championship playoffs.
Group A
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC
Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga
Kampala Queens
Makerere University WFC
Tooro Queens
Group B
UCU Lady Cardinals
Olila WFC
Lady Doves
Isra Soccer Academy
She Corporate WFC
FUFA Women Elite League
The FUFA Women Elite League League will be divided into four groups each of four teams with the leaders at the end of a round-robin qualifying to the Championship playoffs and determining the teams that will be promoted to the FUFA Women Super League.
The groups are as follows;
Group A
Asubo Gafford Ladies
Dynamic SS Jjeza
King of Kings
Luweero Giants FC
Group B
Rines WFC
Town View SS
Bunyaruguru Girls
She Kataka
Group C
Ajax Queens
Amuria High School
St. Peters SS
Vision WFC
Group D
Lango Queens
She Maroons
Echoes High School
Wakiso Hills
The FUFA Women Elite League is expected to kick-off on 2nd May 2021.
FUFA will cater for accommodation, feeding and testing costs while the teams are at FUFA Technical Centre.
Each team will be allocated 20 slots, of which a minimum of 16 must be players while one of the officials must be a female.
Only one group will be accommodated at the FUFA Technical Centre at a time and will leave once their games are finished to create space for another team.
As part of the organization procedure for the forthcoming 2021 Africa Beach Soccer Qualifier match when Sand Cranes hosts Ghana , the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has embarked on developing a permanent home .
A team of officials led by the FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza, FUFA Club Licensing Manager, Ivan Kintu Bayige and UBSA Vice President, Peter Seguya had a tour around the facility at the FUFA Technical Centre .
L-R: FUFA Football Development Director, Ali Mwebe, FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza and FUFA Club Licensing Mananger, Ivan Kintu Bayige
This will be the venue to host the qualifier match against Ghana on 27th March 2021.
FUFA deputy CEO-Football, Kiiza expressed that the facility is in good shape and ready for use .
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza(C) with UBSA Delegate, Anthony Tumwesigye(L) and UBSA EXCO Member Adam Kato Juma
“I believe that few thing are remaining and will be ready for the game against Ghana and I expect we shall be able to get positive results.” Said Kiiza.
Ali Mwebe, the FUFA Football Development Director said that the facility is still being worked on so that players find it conducive both during training and on matchdays .
FUFA Football Director, Ali Mwebe listening to FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza
Vice chairman of Uganda Beach Soccer Association, Peter Seguya applauded FUFA for the support given towards the development of Beach Soccer in the country.
“It would be hard to find a playing surface in this country like this one. We have a challenge that many of the beaches we have been using were all affected by the raise of the water levels but this is timely and we hope it will help to host tournaments.” He noted.
UBSA Vice President, Peter Seguya looks on as inspection of the pitch is done.
The Sand Cranes will lock horns with Ghana for the AFCON Beach soccer Qualifier contest slated for Saturday 27th March and return leg away on 9-10th April.
After a successful display of great football in their maiden tournament, the Uganda U20 team fell to West African giants Ghana in the Final by 2-0 at the Stade Olympique in Nouakchott on Saturday night.
Despite dominating the opening 15 minutes of the Total AFCON U20 final game, the Hippos conceded in the 21st and 50th minutes of the game with goals coming from Ghanaian captain Daniel Afriyie Barnieh who later named Man of the Match and Player of the Tournament.
Uganda Hippos forward Richard Basangwa (Yellow) in action
Tournament top scorer Derrick Kakooza had a chance to hand Uganda the lead inside five minutes of the match but his looping ball went over the bar. Substitute Ivan Bogere and Ivan Eyam also got opportunities inside the goal area but their efforts were not timed well.
Midfilder Ivan Asaba with the ball during the Final. He was a menace to the Ghanaians as he was tracked from opening whistle till when he went off in the second half.
‘We wanted to get an early lead in the first minutes but we failed to convert our chances. The boys lost concentration upfront. Ghana had the better experience than us. The champions used their chances and took the day’ daid Head Coach Byekwaso during the post-match press conference.
Striker Derrick Kakooza emerged as the 2021 Total AFCON U20 top scorer with 5 goals. He was rewarded with an accolade.
Uganda Hippos striker Derrick Kakooza receiving the Top Scorer’s accolade
Awards
The Hippos won the Tournament Fair Play Award.
Left Back Aziizi Kayondo and Derrick Kakooza were named in the team of the Tournament while Head coach Byekwaso was picked as the best coach of the Tournament.
‘I am privileged to win the top scorer’s accolade, it wasn’t my own effort but for the whole team. I thank God for it and it has given me the courage to work hard for the best in my career’ said Derrick Kakooza after receiving the Top Scorer’s Award
The Hippos ended the tournament with 8 goals scored and conceding 5 from the 6 games played.
Uganda Hippos Captain Gavin Kizito receiving the Fair Play Award
Isma Mugulusi (shirt 10), Aziizi Kayondo (shirt 3) and Derrick Kakooza (shirt 20) are the three players that managed to win Man of the Match accolade against Mozambique, Mauritania and Tunisia respectively.
Uganda Hippos XI that started against Ghana in the Final; Back Row-L-R: Jack Komakech, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Kenneth Semakula, Derrick Kakooza, and captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri. Front Row: Aziizi Kayondo, Steven Sserwadda, Ivan Asaba, Isma Mugulusi and Bobosi Byaruhanga.
The 2021 AFCON U20 Tournament in Mauritania will climax on Saturday night (11pm EAT) with the Uganda Hippos battling Ghana in the historical final at the Olympique Stadium in Nouakchott.
While at the Pre-Match Press Conference, Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso believes it is time for his team to accomplish the mission by winning the trophy.
‘It has been a long journey to the final. We have gone through many challenges but we remained strong and victorious. Calmness is the key to our victories since the beginning and we have no pressure. We shall only be fighting to become champions. Ghana is good but we believe in ourselves and ready to challenge them. Like we have been playing in the previous games, we shall bring out what we are best at doing naturally. We expect a very tough match but it is for us to accomplish our mission by winning the trophy’ said Byekwaso.
Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso at the Pre-Match Press Conference on Friday
‘We are not under pressure. We know that if we are fit, we can take on any challenge that comes our way. We are fit and ready to face Ghana. We believe in our selves and we shall come out as victors in the final.’ noted Hippos captain Gavin Kizito during the Pre-Match Press Conference
Hippos captain Gavin Kizito at the Pre-Match Press Conference
The match will be played at 8:00pm (11:00pm E.A.T)
Road to the Final
Group A Stage matches
Uganda 2-0 Mozambique
Cameroon 0-1 Uganda
Mauritania 1-2 Uganda
Quarterfinals
Uganda 0(5)-0(3) Burkina Faso.
Semifinals
Uganda 4-1 Tunisia
Uganda U20 striker Derrick Kakooza is the leading top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals followed by Ghanaian Preciuos Boah with 3 goals.
The technical team in charge of the Senior Men’s National Team has on Friday summoned a total of 31 players that will feature in the final two 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualification games against Malawi and Burkina Faso.
Abdallah Mubiru, the Uganda Cranes assistant coach together with coach Livingstone Mbabazi named the team on Friday morning in a brief function held at FUFA Complex, Mengo.
Uganda Cranes assistant coach Abdallah Mubiru.
Mubiru confirmed that the team will enter residential camp on 18th March at the Cranes Paradise Hotel.
‘The team will enter residential camp on 18th March 2021 at Cranes Paradise Hotel to prepare for Burkina Faso and Malawi.’
Coach Abdallah Mubiru and Livingstone Mbabazi
The team comprise of four goalkeepers, ten defenders, eleven midfielders and six forwards.
Two players from the Uganda Hippos (U20) who are currently playing at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Mauritania have been included on the team named today.
These are captain Garvin Mugweri Kizito and midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga.
Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru who features for Wycombe Wanders in the English Championship is also part of the team. Despite earning calls previously, this will be his first team to be part of the squad.
Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru(Left) in action
Uganda is second in group B on seven points and will face leaders Burkina Faso on 24th March in Kampala before ending the campaihn away against Malawi.
At the same function, FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein launched the tag line for the home against Burkina Faso.
FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein
This is translated in four languages namely; English, Luganda, Runyakitara and Luo.
English- Seal it
Luganda- Tukiggale
Runyakitara – Tukimalirize
Luo- Opung Wie Oko
“The Uganda Cranes are still in contention for qualification to 2021 AFCON and we believe this can be achieved in the penultimate game against Burkina Faso at home. The purpose of the this message to call upon fans to rally behind the team and support them from home because no fans are allowed in the stadium at the moment.’ He said.
Full Squad summoned
Goalkeepers:
Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Jamal Salim (Al Hilal, Sudan), Charles Lukwago(KCCA FC-Uganda), Kigonya Mathias ( Azam FC- Tanzania)
Defenders:
Mugabi Bevis (Motherwell FC- Scotland), Kizza Mustapha (DC Montreal- USA), Ronald Mukiibi(Ostersunds FK, Sweden), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam, Tanzania), Timothy Denis Awany (Sport Club Ironi, Ashdod, Israel), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, Democratic Republic of Congo), Lwaliwa Halid (Vipers SC-Uganda), Elvis Bwomono (Southend United, England), Juuko Murushid (Express FC-Uganda), Kizito Mugweri Gavin (SC Villa- Uganda)
The growth and development of Ugandan football has been evident over the years and there is no doubt that the game is headed for the right direction.
The performance of the Uganda Hippos at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Mauritania is one of the indicators of progress and the consorted efforts made by FUFA .
Below is an excerpt of a story by published on the CAF Website.
Returning to the finals of Total Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2017 after a 39 years absence was just a remark that Ugandan football is living a prosperous period where it does not let any competition without leaving their mark.
Uganda was there at senior level (2017 and 2019 AFCON, 2018 and 2020 CHAN), and they did not also miss any youth competition (U-20 and U-17). This Saturday they will face Ghana in the final match of the Total U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Mauritania 2021.
CAFOnline.com talked to former Uganda Cranes captain Edgar Watson, and to Rogers Mulindwa, member of the Ugandan Football Association (FUFA) Executive Committee, to provide answers to this Ugandan football spring that they hope will last long.
Asked about how they see this return to continental football front after last appearing in AFCON in 1978 when they reached the final against hosts Ghana, they cited several factors.
“We have had the chance to experience real stability in our football management lately,” explained Mulindwa, who is also the head of Uganda delegation in Mauritania.
ROGERS MULINDWA
“Current FUFA president Moses Magogo worked for several years as a member of the Executive Committee,” recalled Watson, former Cranes captain and in charge of youth football for several years, before holding the position of FUFA General Secretary General and Technical Director.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Mulindwa
Watson, who is also a member of CAF Technical Study Group during the ongoing Total U-20 AFCON, added that the launching of a junior league and inter-school competitions played a role in Ugandan football revival.
“A junior league was launched across the country, and all elite teams were obliged to have a junior team,” recalled the two leaders, noting that most of the squad that reached this Total U-20 AFCON final were selected from these youth teams.
“The inter-school competition throughout Uganda, providing sponsors to it, and substantial contribution from the state in recent years also made the difference,” added Mulindwa.
EDGAR WATSON “The government gave support to the Cranes, which gave FUFA the means to deal with development and youth football,” added Watson, highlighting the presence of three main sponsors alongside the Ugandan football governing body.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) CEO Edgar Watson addressing the media at FUFA House, Mengo.
“There are more ways to motivate national team players, and all young Ugandans dream of playing for national teams, hence there is fierce competition to reach these selections,” continued Watson.
FUFA has also set up committees for youth football development, with a priority for U-15s.
Watson underlined the contribution of CECAFA (Council of Football Associations of East Africa) in organizing zonal competitions as well in youth football (U-17 and U-20), among women than in senior categories.
“These competitions are interesting in many ways, since they allow young Ugandans to play against their counterparts in the zone and raise their level,” concluded Watson who played for Uganda between 1996 and 2004.
Uganda Beach Soccer National Team (Sand Cranes) head coach Salim Jamal Muwonge has summoned a squad of 20 players to begin preparations for the 2021 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier against Ghana.
Uganda will face Ghana on 27th March 2021 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru and a return leg away between 9th-10th April.
The team will enter residential camp on Monday, 8th March at the FUFA Technical Centre.
Defenders Paul Lule (Buganda Royal) Davis Kasujja (MUBS) Douglas Muganga (MUBS) Paul Kato (Buganda Royal) Suleiman Ochero (St. Lawrence University)
Midfielders Peter Mukwata (Mutoola Beach) Swaibu Kakwaya (Buganda Royal) Alex Emmanuel Wasswa (St. Lawrence University) Ronald Magwali (Buganda Royal) Rica Byaruhanga (Isabet)
Forwards Ismail Kawawulo (MUBS) Brian Nkuubi (St. Lawrence University) Said Munir (MUBS) Swalleh Ssimbwa (St. Lawrence University) Godfrey Lwesibwa (Buganda Royal) Baker Lukooya (St. Lawrence University)
Officials Head coach – Salim Jamal Muwonge Assistant Manager – Peter Sseguya Fitness Coach – Charles Lukula Ayiekoh Team Physician – Ivan Kulika Team Manager – Tonny Ssebagala Media Officer – Julius Bazzeketta
About the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (added information via internet)
The 2021 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations will be the fourth edition of the Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations (BSAFCON), the premier beach soccer championship in Africa contested by men’s national teams who are members of the Confederation of African football (CAF). Originally organised by Beach Soccer Worldwide (BSWW) under the title FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup CAF qualifier (informally known as CAF Beach Soccer Championship), in 2015, CAF became organisers and began using the BSAFCON title to which the competition was officially renamed the next year.
Overall, this will be the 10th edition of the event.
The tournament was due to take place in Uganda between 23 and 29 November 2020. However, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic and rising water levels on the shores of Lake Victoria affecting the host beach, Uganda withdrew from hosting.Senegal were subsequently chosen as the new hosts,with the tournament rescheduled to take place from 23 to 29 May 2021,in the city of Saly.
The event also acts as the qualification route for African teams to the 2021 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Russia; the winners and runners-up qualify.
‘The FUFA Executive Committee has asked the Head Coach of the National Senior side-The Uganda Cranes Mr. Johnathan McKinstry to step aside from managing and coaching the team for the period from 2nd- 31st March 2021.
In the meantime Assistant Coaches Mr. Mubiru Abdallah, Mr. Mbabazi Livingstone and goalkeeping coach Mr. Kajoba Fred will take charge of the team during this period. The rest of the Technical team remains unchanged.
FUFA will use the period to assess and monitor the performance of the team.
The Total AFCON U20 final has been decided. Uganda and Ghana will contest for the top honours on Saturday 6th March in Muaritania. Many fans and high profile figures in Uganda have followed the tournament. The 4-1 for Uganda U20 over Tunisia sent the social media platforms buzzing with little space left to breath as the Hippos strolled heavily over their North African opponents.
The President of the Republic of Uganda HE Yoweri Kaguta Museveni with 2.1 Million followers was among those to congratulate the team.
‘Congratulations to the #UgandaHippos for that emphatic victory against Tunisia which gives us a shot at the trophy in the #AFCONU20 finals. Your country is solidly behind you!
The First Lady who is the Minister of Education and Sports alos sent her message to the team on her twitter handle.
‘Hearty congratulations to the Uganda Hippos upon reaching the finals of #TotalAFCONU20 .This is the first time to play in this tournament and we have reached this far. Keep up the good fight and we shall bring the trophy home’
The Speaker of Parliament RT. Hon Rebecca Kadaga Alitwala posted on her twitter handle in ecstasy.
On behalf of Uganda Parliament, I congratulate the HIPPOS for thier sterling performance at the U20, reaching the semi – finals of Afcon, Boys we are nearly there! GO UGANDANS Go!
The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo who is MP elect Budiope East kept it simple and precise.
It is not the win but how and against who!! Yes it is: #TotalAFCONU20 Semi Final Uganda 4 vs Tunisia 1 Football is not an event, It is a process It is Our Game, It is Our Country.
FUFA President’s tweet after Uganda beat Tunisia 4-1 to qualify for the Final.
Minister of State for Sports Hon Hamson Obua
Uganda Cranes Captain Dennis Onyango congratulated the boys. Prior to the match he sent a message of good luck to the Hippos
KCCA FC Chairman Martic Ssekajja has an array of wonderful players on the team
Former Presidential Candidate (20216) Kizza Besigye had a moment to congratulate the Hippos
League Champions Vipers SC also had a message for the Hippos. Richard Basangwa who opened the floodgates for the goals on the night plays for the Venoms.
Experienced journalist Usher Komugisha also congratulated the youngsters while a fan Bumari Innocent had a word too.
Uganda U20 Team Skipper Gavin Kizito
A light moment from a fan Oscar Juniors on Facebook about the 200,000 USD promised to the team as winning bonuses.
A message from National Council of Sports
Aldrine Nsubuga-seasoned opinion writer on football
Henry Thierry Musabe has witnessed the growth and playing career of most of the boys on the Uganda U20 team.
Debutants Uganda U20 Team- the Hippos are in the final of the Total AFCON U20 after a well drilled 4-1 win over Tunisia 4-1 at Stade Cheikha Ould Boïdiya in Mauritania.
Striker Derrick Kakooza recorded the first hattrick of the tournament hitting the back of the net in the 36th, 50th and 73rd minutes.
Before the final Head coach Morley Byekwaso has said a the Pre-mathc Press Conference that winning had become part of his teams DNA while FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo asked the players to go and eat Grass for 90 minutes against Tunisia.
The youngsters, many of them (20 out of 25 products of the FUFA Juniors League started in 2015) listened to the two statements very well on Sunday ahead of the semifinal clash.
Uganda Hippos starting Lineup: Back Row; Jack Komakeck, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Kenneth Semakula, Derrick Kakooza and Captain Gavin Kizito. Front Row; Aziizi Kayondo, Steven Sserwadda, Isma Mugulusi, Najib Yiga and Bobosi Byaruhanga
Police FC’s Derrick Kakooza netted a hat-trick-the first if the entire tournament while Richard Basangwa gave the Hippos the early lead on five minutes for the match to end 4-1 as Uganda stormed the final to face Ghana who ejected Gambia 1-0 in the other semifinal.
Do you watt to try our celebrations? Goal scorers Derrick Kakooza (left) and Richard Basangwa celebrating
It will be a repeat of the 1978 Nations Cup Final when the two teams faced off but at senior level. Ghana won 2-0 in Kumasi. This time round the final is in a different country and for a junior tournament.
Except for the game against Cameroon where they lost 1-0, the Hippos have been enjoying such moments in every game they have played in Mauritania. The celebration in this photo is from Monday’s 4-1 semifinal win over Tunisia
The match had enough highlights ranging from Basangwa’s early goal to Isma Mugulusi’s well struck shot that hit the crossbar just before halftime. The first half three goals including Tunisia’s strike but the attention was on how Basangwa coolly controlled the ball in the penalty area for Uganda’s opener before he set up Derrick Kakooza for his first of the three goals on the night.
Tunisia Defender Adam Karim Benlamine pulled back the consolation goal in the 39th minute.
Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso was forced to make a first-half substitution after midfielder Najib Yiga suffered a groin injury. He was replaced by Ivan Bogere.
Halftime ended 2-1 in favour of Uganda.
After the break, Tunisia piled a lot of pressure on Hippos with raid after raid but the Hippos never lost their shape in team formation and play. Bobosi Byaruhanga who was at CHAN in Cameoroon this year but never played in the tournament, bright out all the experience he learnt during the camp with a million dollar long range pass over the Tunisian defence to spot out Kakooza who headed over goalkeeper Damergy for Uganda to lead 3-1. At this stage Uganda took control of the game but were yearning for more on the night as they also stuck to their game plan that has characterized their style of play with accurate passing, relentless pressing, never give up attitude and desire to win.
Defender Kenneth SSemakula made a monster clearance off the line in the second half.
The Hippos goal poacher Kakooza was named Man of the Match and he is the leading top scorer of the tournament with five goals followed by Ghanaian Percious Boah with three goals.
Kakooza was named Total Man of the Match.
Derrick Kakooza with his Man of the Match accolade
‘We spent days focusing on how to stop the Tunisians. It was easy for us but God was on our side. We tried to prevent them from possessing the ball. It was challenging to play against one of the Africa strongest teams but our game plan worked for us’ said Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso
Uganda Hippos will play Ghana in the Final on Saturday 6th March 2021 at the Stade Olympque in Nouakchott.
This is the third time both teams are meeting in U20 competition. They played each other in the AFCON U20 Qualifiers in 2012 where the Hippos won 3-1 at home before losing 3-0 away in Ghana during the 2nd leg.
MAIN PHOTO: Derrick Kakooza celebrating his first goal of the day against Tunisia
The history makers Uganda U20 TeamHippos will be back in action on Monday night for the semifinal match against Tunisia at the ongoing Total AFCON U20 tournament in Mauritania.
Uganda is playing at the tournament for the first time and the Hippos have continued to showcase resilience, strong character and beautiful football for good results.
Another task awaits the Hippos at the next stage after ejecting Burkina Faso on penalties in the Quarterfinals.
While attending the Pre-Match Press Conference on Sunday afternoon, the Hippos head Coach Morley Byekwaso made it clear that he wants winning to be part of his players’ DNA as he looks forward to the last four stage clash against the North African opponents.
‘We have come a long way to this stage. Believing in ourselves and working together as a team has been key to our progress. Winning games at this level has now become part of our DNA and we hope to put up a strong fight against Tunisia to qualify for the final‘ said Byekwaso.
Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso during the Pre Match Press Conference on Sunday
‘Any team at this level can win the championship. We respect our opponents but we are more than ready to face any strong side on the continent’ added Byekwaso.
The Team Captain Garvin Kizito Mugweri called on his teammates to continue with the fight.
‘We want to keep playing well as we continue making history. We are a strong force because of the bonding in the team. The next match is very important as we want to perform well’ noted Kizito who has grown through the ranks starting with the Uganda U17 team.
Tunisia eliminated Morocco in the quarterfinals on penalties just like the Hippos did against Burkina Faso.
Uganda Hippos has scored 4 goals in their match to the Semifinals and conceded 2 goals so far while Tunisia has netted 3 goals and let in 2 goals since the beginning of the tournament.
The match will be played at Stade de Olympique in Nouakchott on Moday 1st March 2021 at 7:30pm (10:30pm E.A.T)
