Uganda Cranes Head Coach Johnathan McKinstry has named a 20 man squad of foreign based players for the two AFCON 2021 Qualifiers against South Sudan to be played between 9th and 17th November 2020.
The announcement of the squad was made during the Press conference held on Thursday morning at FUFA House in Mengo. Mckinstry was flanked at the press conference by his 1st Assistant coach Abdallah Mubiru.
Mckinstry was flanked at the press conference by his 1st Assistant coach Abdallah Mubiru.
In addition to this list of foreign based players, a further selection of Uganda Premier League players will be added to the final squad following further assessment of their current preparedness by the national team technical staff.
The 20 man Squad summoned.
Goalkeepers: Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Magoola Jamal Salim (Al Hilal Omdruman, Sudan)
Denis Onyango, the team captain passes the ball in training.
Goalkeeper Salim Jamal and striker Edrisa Lubega at Lugogo
Defenders: Ronald Mukiibi (Ostersunds FK, Sweden), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Timothy Denis Awany (Sport Club Ironi Ashdod, Israel), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, Democratic Republic of Congo), Alex Kakuba (CD Cova Piedade, Portugal), Elvis Bwomono (Southend United, England)
Left fullback Joseph Ochaya races to the ball
Midfielders: Michael Azira (Chicago Fire, USA), Khalid Aucho (Misr Lel Makasa, Egypt), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Allan Okello (Paradou, Algeria)
Fahad Bayo and Allan Okello lauching an attack in the game against Burundi in the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup in 2019. Both players are in the Sqaud.
FUFA has confirmed that another set of mouth watering games involving 16 FUFA Regional clubs and FUFA Women Elite League will swing into action on Thursday 22nd October 2020.
All the action will be Exclusively live on 1021. FUFA fm and Facebook- Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
There will be 12 FUFA Regional Legaue Playoff matches and One (1) FUFA Women Elite League Play off.
According to the FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, all these 13 matches will be broadcast Exclusively Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and Facebook- Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
Kitara team captain Maxwel Owachgui during the post match interviews.
‘In the new normal where the fans have not been able to access the playing venue, FUFA is committed to broadcast live the proceedings from all the matches to the fans at the convenience in their home steads, offices and on their mobile phones with excellent live streaming. We remain indebted to serve you at all times’ Ahmed Hussein, FUFA Communications Director remarks.
The play offs will kick off with a double header of Buganda Region Teams as Buwambo FC engages Luweero United during the early kick off at 10 a.m
Then, Edgars Youth will entertain CATDA in the subsequent fixture at 2pm in the Kampala Region battle.
One of the pitch side cameramen on duty to capture all the action in Njeru. Social media team on duty
Regional play offs:
21st October 2020 – Arrival of Buwambo United, Edgars, Catda, Luweero United
Buganda: 22nd October 2020 – Buwambo United Vs Luweero United – 10 am (Njeru)
Kampala: 22nd October 2020 – Edgars Vs Catda – 2 pm (Njeru)
23rd October 2020 – Rest Day
24th October 2020 – Final: Buwambo United or Luweero United Vs Edgars Vs Catda – 12 pm (Njeru)
24th October 2020 – Arrival of Gadafi, Sansiro, Admin, Team Church
Eastern: 25th October 2020 – Gadafi Vs Admin – 10 am (Njeru)
North East: 25th October 2020 – Sansiro Vs Team Church – 2 pm (Njeru)
26th October 2020 – Rest Day
27th October 2020 -Final: Gadafi or Admin Vs Sansiro or Team Church – 12 pm (Njeru)
27th October 2020: Arrival for Asingye, Booma, Kigezi, Terrazo & Tiles
Kitara: 28thOctober 2020: Asingye Vs Booma – 10 am (Njeru)
Western: 28th October 2020: Terrazo & Tiles Vs Kigezi – 2 pm (Njeru)
29th October 2020: Rest Day
30th October 2020: Asingye or Booma Vs Terrazo & Tile Vs Kigezi (12 pm) – Njeru
30th October 2020: Arrival for Young Elephant, Calvary, Hot Springs, Northern Gateway
Northern: 31st October 2020: Young Elephant Vs Northern Gateway – 10 am (Njeru)
West Nile: 31st October 2020: Calvary Vs Hot Springs – 2 pm (Njeru)
1st November 2020: Rest Day
2nd November 2020: Young Elephant or Northern Gateway Vs Calvary Vs Hot Springs
2nd November 2020: Arrivals for Aubo Gafford, Tooro Queens
StarTimes FUFA Big League (Promotional Play-off Final):
Wednesday, 21 October 2020: Kitara Vs Kiboga Young
At FUFA Technical Center, Njeru (12 PM)
*Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m & all official FUFA Social Media Play forms
The promotional play off final to determine the third club that will play in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League shall be played on Wednesday, 21 October 2020 between Kitara and Kiboga Young at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru (12 pm).
The winner will earn a berth to the top tier division of the country to join UPDF and MYDA who secured direct slots after the StarTimes FUFA Big League season was abruptly brought to an end because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Here are the official team start lists released by the respective teams.
Kitara XI: Jamil Kiyemba (Goalkeeper – 01), Yasin Mubiru (06), Patrick Mugume (23), Musa Docca (22), Maxwel Owachgiu (02), Daniel Patrick Ekoyu (13), Jamil Kisitu Nvule (04), Benon Mike Baguku (10), Pius Mbidde (19), Brian Mululi Mayanja (08), George Senkaba (09)
Subs: Ivan Akera (29), Phillip Ssempira (15), Denis Monday (17), , Peter Lumoro (21), Samuel Adibo (03), Vicent Kasoki (07)
Wednesday, 21st October – Kitara Vs Kiboga Young (12 pm)
At FUFA Technical Center, Njeru (*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m & all official FUFA Social Media platforms)
On Wednesday, 21st October 2020, Kitara and Kiboga Young Football Club shall square off during the final of the StarTimes FUFA Big League promotional play-off at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru.
To make it to the final, Hoima based Kitara overcame Mbale’s Kataka 7-6 in post match penalties after a goal-less draw in normal time during the first encounter.
The second game witnessed Kiboga Young out-muscle Ndejje University 3-1 with strikes coming from captain Jamaldine Buchochera, Brian Olega and Sula Wambede.
Ndejje University had got the opening goal via a Sulaiman Tumusiime’s kick from the penalty spot.
Kitara FC team that overcame Kataka 7-6 in spot-kicks on Monday
Prior to the final game, the two coaches of the respective sides are positive and ready to deliver their best.
‘We are not leaving anything to chance. Football is maracado. It is termed the beautiful game of hard work. We have worked hard and ready to qualify for the StarTimes Uganda Premier League’ Richard Makumbi, head coach at Kiboga Young remarked.
Richard Makumbi, Kiboga Young head coach during training on Tuesday, 20th October 2020 at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru
His counterpart at Kitara FC Mark Twinamatisko also expressed the readiness to register success.
‘Kitara Football Club is ready to make face Kiboga Young in the final. We are physically ready with no injuries and mentally strong’ Twinamatisko revealed.
Key players to watch:
The StarTimes FUFA Big League top scorer from the regular season, Brian Muluuli Mayanja of Kitara is one of the players to key watch of all.
Others are captain Maxwell Owachgui, goalkeeper Jamil Kiyimba, creative midfielder Jamil Nvule Kisitu, the ‘age-less’ defender Musa Docca and striker George Senkaaba.
The Kiboga Young star players are goalkeeper Steven Mukomba, captain Jamadlin Buchochera, their top scorer Luka Okori, Pascal Irasa, Brian Olega and Gody Otika among others.
Kitara FC players stretch during the last training on Tuesday at Njeru
Meanwhile, FUFA has confirmed the match officials who will officiate this eagerly awaited final of the promotional FUFA Big League play-offs.
The game will kick off by 12 pm and will be streamlined live on FUFA TV and across all the FUFA official social media platforms.
The growth of FUFA Membership calls for strong organization through proper structures to handle the day to day activities at various levels in the Regions.
Click FUFA Member Associations Annual Newsletter
With FUFA Membership now at 34 now, there is need to improve service delivery and operations between FUFA Secretariat in Mengo and the other organs of FUFA. The recruitment of eight Regional General Secretaries has helped improve on the Reporting Systems which trickles down to the District Football Associations (DFAs) for a proper Evaluation System.
The current system also calls for proper administration, accountability of finances (Financial Assistance Programme) and activities which must be enforced.
FUFA Achievements
FUFA has continued to give financial support to its members; UGX 25M per Member Association (MA) each year.
Improved operations between FUFA Secretariat and the Delegates/Members of FUFA following the creation of the Member Associations Offices (SIGs Offices, RFAs)
Recruited 8 Regional General Secretaries all paid by FUFA to handle daily operations
Football related wrangles that existed in some RFAs or DFAs have been addressed in areas like Kalangala –Buganda RFA, Sebei sub-region in Eastern RFA, Kyenjojo, Bundibugyo -Kitara RFA and Northern Region.
Admitted new members to the FUFA Assembly– Uganda Football Players Association, Futsal Association of Uganda and National Women Football Leagues.
Women representation in the Assembly has increased and now stands at eight.
At least one Delegate travels with the National team on each foreign trip
Leader of Delegation (LOD) of the National team is a reserve of the FUFA Exco Member
FUFA has developed a working guide (FUFA Land Acquisition Manual) that encourages Member Associations to find land to donate to FUFA for development of the game.
The Member Associations and Clubs have organised their Annual General Assemblies as required by the FUFA Statutes.
FUFA provides monthly facilitation to Delegates (Amounting UGX 528M)
Acquired Medical Insurance for Delegates and Members of the Executive Committee
At the 92nd FUFA General Assembly in 2015 held in Soroti, FUFA approved the Regional Football Association Strategy where the following interventions were made to the eight (8) Regions;
Follow Live Stream on FUFA TV – FUFA You-Tube Channel, official Facebook page, Twitter Handle and 102.1 FUFA f.m
Kampala Regional Football Association (KRFA) will host the 96th FUFA Ordinary Assembly at Silver Springs Hotel, Bugolobi – Nakawa Division on Saturday, 17th October 2020, starting at 9:30 a.m.
This Ordinary Assembly will be held pursuant to the FUFA Statutes Article (27).
‘There will be strict adherence of the COVID-19 Government recommended Standard Operating Procedures that include mandatory acts of wearing a mask, maintaining social distance and frequent sanitizing/washing of hands Attendance will henceforth be restricted and arrangements may change impromptly depending on circumstances at hand.’ Edgar Watson, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at FUFA remarks.
The Hall that will host the Delegates and invited guests is ready
All the delegates were served with the assembly convocation on 16th September 2020, as mandated by the consistution.
Everything is well lined up for a tranquil assembly that will be broadcast live on 102.1 FUFA fm with a live stream on FUFA TV and all official FUFA Social Media Platforms.
Programme:
7 am – 8:45 am: Registration of Delegates Breakfast., Delegates submit required Information and documents to FUFA Secretariat staff and Photo & Video interview Session
8.45am: Arrival of Invited Guests 9:30am: Start of FUFA Ordinary Assembly 2pm: Lunch 4pm: Departure of Delegates and invited Guests
A 26 man Uganda Cranes contingent composed of players and officials has on Tuesday morning safely landed in Uganda from Dubai aboard Dubai Airlines following a successful five days training camp.
Only two foreign based players that is Allan Kateregga and TP Mazembe’s Joseph Ochaya returned with the team with the former expected to connect to Kinshasa on Tuesday evening.
Head coach Johnathan Mckinstry aplauded his troops for the efforts and hardwork put up while in Dubai and further urged them to keep working more harder if they are to be considered for the upcoming 2022 AFCON qualification double header against South Sudan in November with the squad expected to be summoned before end of this month.
Uganda Cranes local based players arriving from Dubai at the Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday Morning
Uganda Cranes will host South Sudan on 12th November 2020 before traveling for the away match a few days later.
The Federation will release the detailed programme and updates relating to the two matches.
The Uganda Cranes contigent that returned to Uganda.
Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume, Uganda), Milton Karisa (Vipers, Uganda), David Owori (SC Villa, Uganda), Bright Anukani (KCCA, Uganda), Saidi Kyeyune (URA, Uganda), Paul Mbowa (URA, Uganda), Samuel Kato (KCCA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers SC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA, Uganda), Karim Watambala (Vipers, Uganda), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Allan Kateregga (Erbil SC, Iraq)
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee member)
Johnathan McKinstry (Head coach), Abdallah Mubiru (Assistant Coach), Livingston Mbabazi (Assistant Coach), Ibrahim Mugisha (Goalkeeping Coach),Felix Ayobo (Sport Scientist), Emmanuel Nakabago (Doctor), Regan Innocent Baluku (Doctor), Samuel Mulondo (Kitman), Geoffrey Massa (Team manager), Paul Mukatabala (Team officer), Ronald Lusulire (Media Officer
The FUFA Competitions Department has released the dates and fixtures of the StarTimes FUFA Big , Regional League and FUFA Women Elite League Playoffs.
All playoffs will be hosted at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The FUFA Big League Playoffs will kickoff on the 18th– and end on 21st October 2020.
Four teams; Kitara FC, Kataka FC, Kiboga Young and Ndejje University FC are vying for the final promotion slot to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
The Regional League playoffs commence on 22nd October till 6th November 2020 with sixteen teams battling for four slots to the Second Tier Legaue (StarTimes FUFA Big League).
Full playoff schedules:
18th October 2020 – Arrival of Kitara FC, Kiboga Young FC, Ndejje University FC and Kataka FC
19th October 2020:
M#1 Kitara FC Vs Kataka FC – 10 am (Njeru)
M#2 Kiboga Young FC Vs Ndejje University FC– 2 pm (Njeru)
20th October 2020 – Rest Day
M#3 Final, 21st October 2020 – Winner M#1 vs Winner M#2 at 12 pm
REGIONAL PLAYOFFS
21st October 2020 – Arrival of Buwambo United, Edgars, Catda and Luweero United FC
M#4 22nd October 2020 – Buwambo United Vs Luweero United – 10 am (Njeru)
M#5 22nd October 2020 – Edgars Vs Catda – 2 pm (Njeru)
23rd October 2020 – Rest Day
M#6 Final: 24th October 2020 Winner M#4 vs Winner M#5 at 12 pm
24th October 2020 – Arrival of Gadafi FC, Sansiro FC, Admin FC and Team ChurchEastern:
M#7 25th October 2020 – Gadafi Vs Admin – 10 am
M#8 25th October 2020 – Sansiro Vs Team Church – 2 pm
26th October 2020 – Rest Day
M#9 27th October 2020: Winner M#7 vs Winner M#8
27th October 2020: Arrival for Asingya, Booma, Kigezi, Terrazo & Tiles
M#1028th October 2020: Asingya Vs Booma – 10 am
M#11 27th October 2020: Terrazo & Tiles Vs Kigezi – 2 pm
29th October 2020: Rest Day
M#1230th October 2020: Winner M#10 vs Winner M#11 at 12 pm
30th October 2020:Arrival of Young Elephant, Calvary, Hot Springs, Northern Gateway
M#13 31st October 2020: Young Elephant Vs Northern Gateway – 10 am
M#14 31st October 2020: Calvary Vs Hot Springs – 2 pm
1st November 2020: Rest Day
M#15 2nd November 2020: Winner M#13 vs Winner M#14 at 12pm
FUFA WOMEN ELITE LEAGUE PLAYOFFS
2nd November 2020- Arrival of Asubo Gafford Ladies and Tooro Queens
M#163rd November 2020 Arsubo Gafford Ladies vs Tooro Queens
Uganda Cranes officially ended their nine days training camp in Dubai with a class session on Monday, 12th October 2020.
FUFA Executive Committee member Ronnie Kalema, who led the delegation officiated over this session that lasted for one hour session.
Kalema, also the Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA) chairman handled this session targeted at capacity-building amongst players and coaches based on important corner stone.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Ronnie Kalema
He stressed the essence of the players and coaches, to prove how valuable they are to the beautiful game.
The former FIFA Referee promised more support on behalf of FUFA at all costs to ensure they achieve their number one goal that is to become the best team in Africa on and off the pitch.
The Uganda Cranes players in Dubai during the capacity building session
‘Our vision of becoming the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch. The world of football has changed dramatically over the last few decades, and every country faces it’s own challenges in coping with these changes. If we want to promote the game in Uganda, we must be ready to meet the needs of our strategy as FUFA. This is the idea behind the Pro Agenda programme that offers such a vast array of different possibilities to enhance the capacity of National team, staff (players and coaches). All internal football stakeholders of FUFA ought to know what’s going on at FUFA so as to have a sense of Belonging & accountable to one another.’ Kalema remarked.
Uganda Cranes Head coach Johnathan McKinstry and national teams officer Paul Mukatabala also contributed with different statements that carried forth the same message to the players.
Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry with his address to the playersFUFA Executive Committee member Ronnie Kalema with his presentation to the Uganda Cranes players and officials
The team is expected to return back home on Tuesday at 10am with Joseph Ochaya and Jamal Salim who will later connect to their respective clubs while the rest of the foreign based players will fly direct to their clubs from Dubai.
Scottish based defender Bevis Mugabi and midfielder Allan Kyambadde who is stationed in Egypt have already flown back to their respective clubs.
The camp is in line with the Cameroon 2022 AFCON tournament qualifiers as well as the 2020 Cameroon CHAN Tournament.
Officials and players pay keen attention during the presentation
Players who were part of the camp in Dubai:
Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume, Uganda), Milton Karisa (Vipers, Uganda), David Owori (SC Villa, Uganda), Bright Anukani (KCCA, Uganda), Saidi Kyeyune (URA, Uganda), Paul Mbowa (URA, Uganda), Samuel Kato (KCCA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers SC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA, Uganda), Karim Watambala (Vipers, Uganda), Bevis Mugabi (Motherwell, Scotland), Farouk Miya (Konyaspor, Turkey), Nicholas Wadada (Azam FC), Elvis Bwomono (Southend United), Salim Jamal (Al Hilal Omdurman, Sudan), Roy Jayden Onen (Reading, England), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Allan Kateregga (Erbil SC, Iraq), Alexis Bbakka (Umea FC, Sweden), Alex Kakuba (CD Cova Piedade, Portugal), Edrisa Lubega (Paide Linameskond).
Team manager Geofrey Massa
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee member)
Johnathan McKinstry (Head coach), Abdallah Mubiru (Assistant Coach), Livingston Mbabazi (Assistant Coach), Ibrahim Mugisha (Goalkeeping Coach), Alexander McCarthy (Fitness Trainer), Felix Ayobo (Sport Scientist), Emmanuel Nakabago (Doctor), Regan Innocent Baluku (Doctor), Samuel Mulondo (Kitman), Geoffrey Massa (Team manager), Paul Mukatabala (Team officer), Ronald Lusulire (Media Officer)
Alexander McKinstry, Fitness TrainerSome of the players
The Uganda National U17 Women Football team has today embarked on field preparations for the final round the FIFA U17 Women World 2021 Qualifiers against Cameroon.
Midfielder Hadijjah Nandago chest controls the ball in training.
The team under the stewardship of coaches Hadijja Namuyanja, Olive Mbekeka (fitness) and James Magala (goalkeeper) conducted double sessions; in the morning and evening at the StarTimes stadium, Lugogo.
Captain Juliet Nalukenge in training on Saturday.
Uganda is set to host the first of the two legged fixture on October 31st with the return leg due in mid November in Cameroon.
The winner on aggregate will together with two other countries represent Africa at the finals to be hosted by India between February and March.
Goalkeeper Daphine Nyayenga going through the paces in trainingMidfielder Eva Nagayi is one of the players in camp.
The Uganda Cranes camp in Dubai has been boosted by the arrival of Swedish and Portuguese based players in orthodox forward Alexis Bbakka (Umea FC) and silky left back Alex Kakuba (CD Cova Piedade).
The duo arrived on Friday morning at the Dubai International Airport and were warmly welcomed by national teams’ officer Paul Mukatabala and immediately drove to the JA Ocean View Hotel to join the rest of the team.
Defender Alex Kakuba is one of the latest players to join Uganda Cranes camp in Dubai.
Their arrival nows brings the total number of foreign based players currently in Dubai to eleven with Estonia based forward Edrisa Lubega expected to fly in this evening (Friday).
The the duo will join the rest of the team in a class session today before taking part in their first training session under floodlights later this evening at the JA Training Center, Jebel Ali.
The training camp in Dubai is in line with the Cameroon 2021 AFCON qualification campaign double header against South Sudan slated for November as well as the 2020 CHAN Tournament in Cameroon.
Players currently in the training camp.
Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume, Uganda), Milton Karisa (Vipers, Uganda), David Owori (SC Villa, Uganda), Bright Anukani (KCCA, Uganda), Saidi Kyeyune (URA, Uganda), Paul Mbowa (URA, Uganda), Samuel Kato (KCCA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers SC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA, Uganda), Karim Watambala (Vipers, Uganda), Bevis Mugabi (Motherwell, Scotland), Farouk Miya (Konyaspor, Turkey), Nicholas Wadada (Azam FC), Elvis Bwomono (Southend United), Salim Jamal (Al Hilal Omdurman, Sudan), Roy Jayden Onen (Reading, England), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Allan Kateregga (Erbil SC, Iraq), Alexis Bbakka (Umea FC, Sweden), Alex Kakuba (CD Cova Piedade, Portugal)
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee member)
Johnathan McKinstry (Head coach), Abdallah Mubiru (Assistant Coach), Livingston Mbabazi (Assistant Coach), Ibrahim Mugisha (Goalkeeping Coach), Alexander McCarthy (Fitness Trainer), Felix Ayobo (Sport Scientist), Emmanuel Nakabago (Doctor), Regan Innocent Baluku (Doctor), Samuel Mulondo (Kitman), Geoffrey Massa (Team manager), Paul Mukatabala (Team officer), Ronald Lusulire (Media Officer
The Uganda Cranes team on Thursday evening conducted their first training session in Dubai at the JA training Center, Jebel Ali.
The training session spearheaded by head coach Johnathan Mckinstry saw the players undergo some body fitness drills, footwork, ball work as well as a ten aside high intensive and pressing practice match.
Farouk Miya in training
All players looked lively in the session as they all aim at winning the heart of the Irish tactician.
Elvis Bwomono who plies his trade at Southend United and Reading U23 starlet Jayden Onen both impressively took part in their maiden training in national colours.
Defender Elvis Bwomono is one of the players currently in camp.
The camp is in line with the 2021 Cameroon AFCON tournament as well as the 2020 Cameroon CHAN Tournament.
Players who took part in the first training session in Dubai.
Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume, Uganda), Milton Karisa (Vipers, Uganda), David Owori (SC Villa, Uganda), Bright Anukani (KCCA, Uganda), Saidi Kyeyune (URA, Uganda), Paul Mbowa (URA, Uganda), Samuel Kato (KCCA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers SC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA, Uganda), Karim Watambala (Vipers, Uganda), Bevis Mugabi (Motherwell, Scotland), Farouk Miya (Konyaspor, Turkey), Nicholas Wadada (Azam FC), Elvis Bwomono (Southend United), Salim Jamal (Al Hilal Omdurman, Sudan), Roy Jayden Onen (Reading, England), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Allan Kateregga (Erbil SC, Iraq)
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee member)
Johnathan McKinstry (Head coach), Abdallah Mubiru (Assistant Coach), Livingston Mbabazi (Assistant Coach), Ibrahim Mugisha (Goalkeeping Coach), Alexander McCarthy (Fitness Trainer), Felix Ayobo (Sport Scientist), Emmanuel Nakabago (Doctor), Regan Innocent Baluku (Doctor), Samuel Mulondo (Kitman), Geoffrey Massa (Team manager), Paul Mukatabala (Team officer), Ronald Lusulire (Media Officer
As a way and need to understand the players especially the foreign based stars much better in different aspects, Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry has officially started the Dubai training camp with a class session at JA Ocean View Hotel, Dubai on Thursday afternoon.
Uganda Cranes coach Johnthan Mckinstry during a class session with the team
The session that lasted for one hour was aimed at creating a strong bond amongst the players in order to build a formidable team.
All the players for the first time converged together with UK based Roy Jayden Onen and Elvis Bwomono who earned their first call to the Senior Team.
Jayden Onen listening attentively during a classroom session.
McKinstry further highlighted the importance of “TEAM” as Together Everyone Achieves More-something the players digested.
While in Dubai, the Cranes will conduct more class sessions as well as training on the field of play before ending with a friendly game that will be confirmed soon.
The training camp in Dubai is in preparation for the forthcoming 2021 AFCON qualifiers against South Sudan in November and 2020 Cameroon CHAN Tournament which was postponed to January next year.
I have on Thursday 8th October 2020 tested positive for Covid -19. I am now in self-isolation from the camp for a period as guided by the health officials for better medication and recovery.
While I am away, I will help conduct some sessions with my technical team for the players online as we continue with preparations for the FIFA U17 World cup Qualifier with Cameroon.
Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi -Head coach U17 National Women team.
A 25 man Uganda Cranes contingent including officials safely arrived in Dubai in the wee hours of Thursday ahead of the training camp.
The contingent left Entebbe international Airport on Wednesday at 10:30 PM aboard fly Dubai with an express flight and touched down at the Dubai International Airport at 3:25AM.
Upon arrival at the airport, they all underwent mandatory Covid 19 tests before they were driven to JA Ocean view hotel in Dubai, Jumeirah street where they were welcomed by a host of foreign based players like Miya Farouk, Bevis Mugabi and Salim Jamal.
This evening at 3pm EAT, head coach Johnathan Mckinstry will hold a brief meeting with the entire team before they conduct their first joint session at 6pm EAT.
The camp is in line with the 2021 AFCON qualifiers as well as the 2020 Cameroon CHAN Tournament.
Current players in camp in Dubai.
Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC)Joel Mutakubwa (Kyetume FC) Nafian Alionzi (URA FC) Milton Karisa (Vipers SC), David Owori (SC.Villa) Bright Anukani (KCCA FC) Saidi Kyeyune (URA FC) Paul Mbowa (URA FC) Samuel Kato (KCCA FC) Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC) Ibrahim Orit (Vipers SC) Shafiq Kagimu (URA FC) Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Bevis Mugabi (Motherwell FC), Farouk Miya (Konyaspor FC) Nicholas Wadada (Azam FC) Elvis Bwomono (Southend United) Salim Jamal (Al Hilal Omdurman) Roy Jayden Onen (Reading FC), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna FC).
Uganda Cranes coach Jonathan McKinstry is disappointed that captain Dennis Onyango will not be part of the team’s training camp in Dubai.
The captain was stopped from joining the rest of the team in camp with his club Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa citing several reasons.
Below is a statement from the coach regarding the matter.
We are very disappointed in Mamelodi Sundowns position regarding not releasing Denis Onyango for international duty during the October 2020 FIFA dates.
Whilst they have released other team members for international duty for their respective nations; they communicated to us on Monday of this week (2 weeks after receiving notification of invitation for the player) that they wished to keep Denis Onyango with them on the basis that he would have to quarantine upon return to South Africa.
As a national team we have been clear that we would not call players to this camp who would have to quarantine on return to their respective clubs. (Eg. Players based in Isreal and USA)
We asked Sundowns for evidence of the regulation regarding quarantine, and they were only able to provide information regarding tourists arriving in South Africa, and not residents as is the case for Denis Onyango.
Upon further checking on our side, the SA Government position would appear clear regarding any potential quarantine in that:
“Exceptions exist for business travellers with rare and critical skills, diplomats, investors, repatriated individuals and professional athletes. “
Despite all of this, and direct dialogue between myself (Head Coach), our national teams officer and staff from Sundowns, their position has remained the same.
At this point we must continue on with the camp so we maximise the benefit to all other members of the team.
We would like to state however that Denis Onyango has always been eager to join us in Dubai and we feel he has been put in a very difficult position by his employers. As such we attach no blame in this situation to the player who remains a key part of our plans for AFCON 2022 and World Cup 2022 qualification.
Mamelodi Sundowns are one of the leading clubs in Africa, and this situation, in our opinion differs greatly from the levels of professionalism we have come to expect from them over the years.
Johnathan McKinstry Head Coach, Uganda Men’s National Team
The FUFA Executive Committee made key decisions regarding the following football competitions and events based on the prevailing COVID-19 status.
In a circular No. 1119, signed by the Deputy CEO – Football Decolas Kiiza Hantali, FUFA issued guidance on resumption of football activities in the country, in particular, the FUFA Competitions.
Star Times Uganda Premier League (1st Division):
Kick off of the 2020/2021 season is postponed from Saturday 17th October 2020 to Friday 20th November 2020.
The Club Licensing exercise has been extended to 15th October 2020 to enable the process of planning and release of fixtures by Tuesday 20th October 2020.
The player registration period is extended by 4 weeks to 19th October 2020.
Stanbic Uganda Cup 46th Edition (2019/2020):
There will be no further action of the Stanbic Uganda Cup 46th Edition. FUFA and the sponsor will soon announce the sponsorship details.
Play offs for season 2019/2020:
Play offs for the 2nd Division (FBL) 3rd Division (FRL), and the FUFA Women Elite League (FWEL), will be organised at the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru.
Fixtures to be released by the Competitions Directorate.
Only players holding licenses for 2019/2020 are eligible for play offs.
A player who has expressed interest to transfer or has transferred to another club, such a player shall not be eligible to play in matches involving the two clubs.
Other Leagues and Competitions:
Club Licensing and player registration will continue to conclusion.
The player registration period is extended by 4 weeks to 19th October 2020.
Further guidance will be given on fixtures and kick off dates.
There was action during the weekend for a number of Ugandan players in the diaspora at their respective clubs.
In this edition, Ronald Lusulire looks at the players who were summoned by Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan Mckinstry ahead of the training camp in Dubai.
Out of the 14 players summoned, 9 of them got playing time while 5 and their respective clubs were not in action.
In Tanzania, Nicholas Wadada featured for 90 minutes as his Azam FC side beat Kagera sugar 4-2 to go on top of the table.
Nicolas Wadada (R) in action
In Turkey, Miya Farouk was introduced in the 61st minute for Shengelia as his Konyaspor FC side drew 0-0 against Denizlispor FC.
In DRC in the Linfoot Liege, Joseph Ochaya played full time as his TP Mazembe drew goalless against Blessings on match day one.
Joseph Ochaya playing for TP Mazembe
In the English League 2, right back Elvis Bwomono played full time as his Southend FC side drew 1-1 at Crawley.
In the Portuguese Segunda, Alex Kakuba started before paving way for Chinese Chen Jiayu as his CD Cova Piedade lost 0-2 at home to Arouca.
Alex Kakuba in action
In the English U23 Premier League, Jayden Roy Onen played full time as his Reading U23 side drew 1-1 at Wesbrom U23.
In the Estonia Meistrilliga, Edrisa Lubega started before paving way for Luts in the 63rd minute as his Paide Linameskond side beat Levadia 1-0 at home.
In the Swedish Suprettan, Alexis Bbakka was introduced in the 65th minute for Deprem as his Umea FC side drew 3-3 at Akropolis.
In Egypt, Derrick Nsibambi started before coming off for Nadi in the 64th minute as his Smouha FC side drew 1-1 at Ismaily.
In Denmark, Moses Opondo played 64 minutes as his Odense lost 1-0 at home against Vjle in Superliga.
Robert Kakeeto wasn’t in the match day squad as as his Aalborg FC side drew 1-1 at home to Aarhus.
In the Morocco Botola pro League, Nelson Ssenkatuka wasn’t in the match day squad as his Mogreb Tetouan side defeated Moloudia Oujda 4-0 at home.
In Swedish Allsvenskun, Isak Ssewankambo featured for 68 minutes before coming off for Baptiste while Ronald Mukiibi was introduced in the 64th minute for Mensiro as their Ostertunds lost 1-2 to AIK Stockholm.
In the Burundi Primus Liege, midfielder Allan Brian Kizza and defender Steven Mugisha made the match day squad as thier Le messager Ngozi claimed a 4-2 win over sleeping giants Vital O.
In the Swedish Allsvenskun Women, Viola Nambi wasn’t in the match day squad as her Vaxjo DFF W side lost 2-1 at Djurgarden W.
In the Ellitetan League, Ritah Kivumbi was introduced in the 46th minute for Ahlberg as her Mallbackens W side lost 1-3 at home to AIK W.
In the English Championship, striker Karl Mubiru Ikpeazu wasn’t in the match day squad as his Wycombe Wanderers side lost 2-0 at Luton.
Meanwhile Khalid Aucho wasn’t in the match day squad due to suspension as his Misr Lemakasa side lost 2-3 at home to Pyramids FC.
In the MLS, Mike Azira was an unused substitute as his Chicago Fire side drew 2-2 at Montreal Impact.
Midfielder Boban Zirintusa wasn’t in the match day squad as his Mtibwa Sugars side lost 1-0 at Biashara United. Custodian Cleo Ssetuba and Jospeh Zziwa didn’t feature for Biashara.
