The Uganda Cranes have only 90 minutes to greatness as they prepare for a blockbuster clash with defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. The match is set for Saturday 23rd August 2025 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Uganda enters the tie in high spirits after topping Group C with seven points from four matches. The achievement has set the stage for a defining moment, with the team eyeing a first-ever progression beyond the last eight of the tournament.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso expressed confidence while remaining realistic about the task ahead.
‘We are playing a well-organised team that has been in the tournament for a long time. We have played them in friendlies, and we know their strengths. The Senegalese are very physical, but every team has weaknesses. This is no longer the group stage; mistakes at this level can cost us dearly. The boys are well-prepared both physically and emotionally, so we are good to go,’ said Byekwaso.
While admitting that Senegal will pose a tough test, the Cranes tactician highlighted discipline and composure as Uganda’s key weapons.
‘We must be disciplined as we are facing a disciplined team. We will focus on minimising mistakes and forcing them into errors. That is how we will create scoring opportunities. We also have the advantage of playing in front of our home fans, and we know how much they expect from us. The boys are aware of this, and they are ready.’
Byekwaso also called for massive fan support, underlining the importance of the home atmosphere.
‘This is a tournament where every team is strong, but playing at home gives us a boost. Our fans have been incredible, pushing the team until the last whistle. We call upon them once again to rally behind us. Together, we can achieve great things.’
The players, too, are brimming with confidence. Joel Serunjogi emphasised the unity and focus within the camp.
‘Everyone is happy and focused. We have learned from the group stage that we must never give up. It is an honour to represent the country, and I will give my all on Saturday. I thank our fans for standing by us, and I call upon them to come in big numbers. We will not disappoint—we want to win.’
Kick-off is set for 5:00 PM at Mandela National Stadium.
FUFA wishes to inform members of the sports media that the application process for accreditation to cover the FUFA Super 8 2025 which starts on Wednesday 27th August 2025 is now open via the FUFA Media Channel on https://fufauganda.com/media/login/
You are kindly advised to log into your respective accounts to apply.
The FUFA Tv Cup Showdown 16 has arrived. Out of 54 registered schools, the tournament has now narrowed to 16 who will battle for glory in Gulu at St. Joseph’s College Layibi from 1st to 9th September 2025.
Speaking before the draw, the chairperson of the organising committee, Dr Apolo Ahimbisibwe, highlighted the importance of the competition. ‘This competition is about bringing football into academic institutions,’ he said. ‘Many parents stop their children from playing because they think it interferes with studies, yet we have players who excel in class and also earn government sponsorship at university.’
He stressed the connection between education and sport. ‘Excellent students in class can become excellent players because football also involves the use of the brain,’ he remarked. Alumni from various schools have also been active followers of the competition which continues to grow each year.
This year the final phase has expanded from eight to sixteen teams. ‘We wanted to give more schools the chance to play at this stage’ Dr Ahimbisibwe explained. Teams that fall short of qualification will still compete in classification matches, ensuring everyone gets more playing time.
Explaining the choice of venue, Dr Ahimbisibwe revealed why St. Joseph’s College Layibi was selected. ‘It has one of the best grounds in the country. We also looked at infrastructure, accommodation and logistics to make the finals memorable for the participants,’ he said. He added that future editions may move across the FUFA football regions. ‘We want to spread the competition across the country. Probably next time it will be in Western Uganda or another region.’
He also pointed out the role of the fans. ‘These matches will be open to supporters, and in that way we have more people watching the competition.’
Group Draws
Group A: St. Joseph’s College Layibi, Kako SSS, Muntuyera High School, St. Charles Lwanga Kasasa
Group B: Nabumali High School, Mpanga SSS, Duhaga SS, Jinja College
Group C: St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Dr. Obote College Boroboro, Ngora High School, Mengo Senior School
Group D: Jinja SSS, St. Charles Lwanga College Koboko, Mbale SS, Kibuli SS
The whole country is excited about today’s match with Senegal in the ongoing CHAN tournament at Mandela National Stadium Namboole. The journey for the Uganda Cranes in this tournament has been well documented with results that have left many fans in high spirits. The opening fixture was not the best of the results for the football fans but the players regrouped and returned with seven points in three games to top group C and even qualify for the quarterfinals for the first time since the inception of the CHAN tournament.
The FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim in his capacity as leader of football business in Uganda, took time to address key issues about the Uganda Cranes, status of team in camp and its customised hotel designed specifically for the team to suit a player’s environment while in camp. In his opening remarks of the media address held at FUFA Hotel, Kisaasi, the FUFA President thanked the Members of the Executive Committee who attended the event, media and the fans fr supporting the Uganda Cranes.
His addressed hinged on;
On Fans and Support
This is a national team and we are all Ugandans. I am very certain that what is not about to change is your nationalism. We did not do so well in the first game, but the fans came back for the second game and it was full house. It was a point of confidence in the national team. We came back for the third game and it was still full house. I am very certain that our qualification out of the group stage is purely because of the support we get at home. The fans have been amazing.
Thank you so much. Our fans, to be more specific, Ugandans and everybody else who has made an effort to ensure that the boys feel at home. I also thank, more specifically, the residents of this area (Kisaasi) who have always shown the team a lot of love.
The team now needs more support. We have gone through a phase (groups) and we are now in the knockout stage, where we have a game against Senegal this Saturday and it is very important that the boys are loved.
On Objectives and readiness
We have achieved our first objective, which was getting out of the group stages. It was our primary objective, because it was a monkey on our back. However, we want to go all the way.
The boys are in jovial mood, they are feeling happy, because those of you in the media who have joined us for lunch, you have dinned with them, and you can testify that the boys are happy, and they are willing to go all the way.
On Player Development
I will also take this moment to explain a few things that that player we see in the stadium, he did not start playing football yesterday. That player has been developed for the last 15 years.
Throughout the 15 years, he has gone through so many hands. Most of these hands are private hands.
Because it is such a tedious, long process. You will see Allan Okello today, but he was a player identified by FUFA Junior League that was started in 2015. He went through the structures. So today we are celebrating what he is doing. But he has been going through a process.
The final bit is motivation and logistics. Normally people want to commentate about the motivation. They want to commentate about logistics. But if you didn’t identify the right talent, if you did not develop the talent which you identified, however much you motivate, however much you provide logistics, they will never give you the results.
On Club Football
Because a doctor is developed from a school. Now a professional footballer must also be developed from a football school. Until we appreciate that we need proper academies.
If KCCA, SC Villa do not have the money, if these players we are talking about today do not eat, do not train properly, do not get paid well at clubs, you do not expect a miracle at the national team.
So as FUFA, our next focus is going to concentrate on how we package club football. Because the Ugandans have shown us that you can consume football on a daily. For the last two weeks, tickets have been selling out.
Today, the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim met with the Uganda Premier League Board, Club Chairpersons and Chief Executive Officers at the FUFA Complex Mengo to strategise ahead of the 2025/2026 #StarTimesUPL season. pic.twitter.com/YuCOUKqyLE
Let us support our clubs. Let it be an obligation that every Ugandan has a local football club, he can identify with.
On Team Hotel
I also want to talk about one of the issues that has also been prevalent in the media, it is about the team hotel. It is true that as a Federation, we have seen some of this feedback from the public. But I want to inform the general public that some of the publications that are being made are false.
A football hotel is customised. It is not a general hotel where you want and whatever you want.
This exclusivity gives us a way of preparing our own food our own way. About the hotel, it has its own gym also custom-made for football.
As we speak right now, this facility, we are also developing the outdoor arena. And if you look through the windows, there’s a pitch which is being developed so that this hotel you can even be able to do a night training.
CAF has to come and look at the amenities and this hotel was approved by CAF. According to the standards of the competition, who is more authoritative? Is it you, the competitor, or CAF?
On Long-Term Plans
Our long-term plan is developing the football stadium at Kariba, which is undergoing development. It has a first-class unit which has accommodation, which has all the amenities that we are talking about here at this moment. Eventually, that will be the home of the national team.
FUFA Hosts KCCA officials for inspection of Kadiba stadium
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has today hosted officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) @KCCAUG, led by Deputy Executive Director Benon Moses Kigenyi, for an inspection of the… pic.twitter.com/3FDCuQCmDy
But that is a long-term process. Right now, we have competitions we are undertaking and we cannot stop doing that.
So there is no benefit at all for any people. In any case, I can tell you that this is one of the hotels where CAF paid the receipts, $120 per head full board.
On Infrastructure
I want to conclude by saying that this location we are talking about, is a necessity.
We would like to call upon the authority, KCCA, to improve the road network. That cannot be our responsibility as a federation. But we have been engaged with the authorities at KCCA.
Conclusion
Let us concentrate on our next engagement, and that is Senegal. How will we go to the stadium? How will we be a team?
So, I want to end my address by saying, let us support them. All they need right now is our support. All they need right now is our support to fill the stadium.
All they need right now is to show them that they’re doing this for all of us. This is the most important thing right now.
The 1st Division League (StarTimes Uganda Premier League) that consists of sixteen teams shall be played over three rounds. In Round One, all clubs will compete in a one-leg league format with home and away matches determined by a draw. At the conclusion of this round, the top eight ranked sides will qualify for Group 1, while the bottom eight will form Group 2 in Round 2. Both groups will then play on a full home and away basis. From Group 1, the top six teams will progress to Group 3 in Round 3, while the bottom two will complete the season in positions seven and eight. From Group 2, the bottom six will proceed to Group 4 in Round 3, while the top two will end the campaign in positions nine and ten.
In Round 3, the teams in Groups 3 and 4 will play a one-leg league format, with fixtures reversed against Round 1 to ensure parity. The final rankings in Group 3 will determine positions one to six, with the top team declared league champions. The rankings in Group 4 will determine positions 11 downwards. At the end of the season, teams finishing in positions 11 to 13 will retain eligibility for the following campaign, while the team finishing 14th will contest a two-legged play-off against the 3rd placed team in the 2nd Division League. The winner of this fixture will qualify for the next 1st Division season, while the loser will be placed in the 2nd Division. The sides finishing 15th and 16th will be relegated directly.
New player registration rules will also apply, with only footballers holding contracts of at least two years’ duration eligible for licensing, save for those whose thirty-first birthday falls during the season. All other existing regulations remain in place.
In addition, each club will be obliged to submit both sporting and business data after every fixture. Sporting data, to be submitted within 48 hours on Form F601. The information recorded using Catapult Technology too. While business data, submitted on Form F605, must cover attendances and revenues. Referees will enforce the use of monitoring technology. Failure to comply will attract corrective measures.
Fixtures shall be played as either single-header or double-header events. Double-headers will consist of two league matches staged at the same venue with two to three hours between kick-off times. The Uganda Premier League retains authority to determine which matches are staged as single or double-headers, and retains the power to amend fixtures within fourteen days.
Financially, FUFA will provide five hundred million Uganda shillings as prize monies, to be distributed across all rounds and positions, with a further two million shillings allocated to the winner of the relegation and promotion play-off. Gate collections will be regulated, with all gross takings declared and approved operations costs deducted before revenues are shared. For single-header fixtures, the home team will retain the majority share, while UPL, FUFA and the match winner each receive a small percentage. For double-header fixtures, revenues will be shared across both home and away teams, with FUFA and UPL also receiving their allocations. In matches ending in a draw, the percentage otherwise allocated to the winner will revert to the home team.
These reforms are designed to improve the structure and competitiveness of the league, enhance transparency in club operations, and ensure sustainable sporting and business practices for the future of Ugandan football.
Uganda Cranes qualified for the quarterfinals in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time after their draw against South Africa in a dramatic comeback. Head Coach Morley Byekwaso attributed the team’s success to the unwavering belief from the start.
‘Yes, we believed we could do it, and finally, we are here,’ he said. ‘When we lost our first game at the start of the tournament, it was hurtful, but we kept believing and pushing, and here we are. As I always say, there’s always a reason for something. We have been leading the table, and here we are, past the group stage, waiting for our next opponent.’
Coach Byekwaso also commented on his players’ performance: ‘We played Allan Okello in a different position than what he played in the first game against Algeria because we know he is more productive in that role. Football is football; sometimes it takes some time to pick up, but he is our playmaker. We believe in him, and he has done well. We believe our league is not as strong as the leagues of other teams we are playing against, so there are things that drain us, especially when we are under pressure. But the players have to know how to cope with situations when they are leading. We are working on it, and we believe we will get there with time.’
Regarding the incident of penalty takers on the team, Coach Morley said: ‘The team has players who take penalties, but the game was so tense. Confidence was everything, which is why we saw them exchanging the ball with the captain. Yes, that’s why we selected him to be the captain – he had the heart and belief to take that penalty decider, and yes, he made it.’
Morley believes they now have to shift their focus to another target in the tournament: ‘Our first target was to get out of the group for the first time ever, but now the target has changed. We have another game on Saturday, so after the excitement, we are going back to training with new words, new motivation, and a new approach. We need to do well even in our next game, so the excitement is only for a certain period. We have to continue preparing for other games.’
Concerning yellow cards, Morley says: ‘That’s just how football is. We missed Joel Serunjoji in today’s game, but we got the point we wanted. We may not have control over yellow cards, but we must be prepared for them. We are going to miss Hillary Mukundane, who is one of our good defenders, but I believe we have someone who will play in his position because I trust all the boys.’
The Uganda Cranes will play either Senegal, Sudan, or Congo in their next game on Saturday.
Match highlights
🎥 HIGHLIGHTS: 🇿🇦 3-3 🇺🇬
Uganda steal the show with a dramatic comeback in a six-goal spectacle to top Group C. 🚀
FUFA has partnered with Case MedInsurance for a medical insurance cover worth 750M for the 2025/2026 season. This cover benefits 16 clubs in the Uganda Premier League and 12 clubs in the FUFA Women Super League. Each club submits a list of 25 players. The scheme starts on 1st September, 2025.
The cover caters for 400 players in the Uganda Premier League and 300 players in the FUFA Women Super League, making a total of 700 players.
Some players who have benefited from FUFA’s medical insurance cover include Shadia Nankya, former UCU Lady Cardinals player now in the US with Dallas Trinity, Ronald Ssekiganda, formerly with SC Villa and now at APR FC in Rwanda, Josephat Ayebare, a Ndejje University FC defender who appreciated support from FUFA during injury recovery after suffering a horrific injury during the FUFA Drum match playing for Kigezi Province, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa of Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Ronah Nantege, a She Corporate FC forward, and Grace Nassongo of She Corporate FC.
The objectives of FUFA’s medical insurance scheme are to prioritize player health, putting players’ health at the forefront, recognizing their key contribution to national teams, support recovery from injuries to help players recover from injuries and illnesses preventing career-threatening outcomes, potentially expand coverage to more leagues in the future.
Full list of players who were managed under FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme after picking up injuries and have returned to play football.
Women: Nakigozi Elizabeth-Kampala Queens FC, Komuntale Sumaya – Kampala Queens FC, Nandunga Bbira – Olila High School WFC, Nyinagahirwa Shakirah – Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Nankya Shadia – UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Muwugumya Harriet- UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Namiro Neolina-She Corporate, Nabiiri Scovia, Nabatanzi Hanifah, Auki Angel Kigongo – Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, Nantongo Cissy – She Corporate FC, Nandere Everline- Lady Doves FC, Nakasato Rebecca – Makerere university WFC, Namusoke Cathy, Nakuba Harriet -Kampala Queens FC, Olga Butiru Lukia, Akiror Patricia – Kampala Queens FC.
Male players: Ssekiganda Ronald – SC Villa, Ibrahim Magandazi – Kitara FC, Anthony Mayanja (Bul FC), Rwothomio Innocent (BUL FC), Kalyowa Emmanuel-BUL FC, Douglas Muganga-BUL FC, Kirya Ambrose, BUL FC, Opio Belmos, Okwalinga Mathias, Angu James, Ssemayange Simon Kato, Masembe Edward- SC Villa, Lukwago David.
Note: Clubs quoted as per FUFA system when the insurance cover was used by each player.
The long wait is finally over. Uganda Cranes have written a new chapter in their football history, qualifying for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinals for the very first time after a pulsating 3-3 draw with South Africa at a fully packed Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Monday night.
Heading into the Group C decider, the Cranes needed just a point to book their place in the last eight, while South Africa required nothing less than victory. What unfolded under the floodlights was a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and unforgettable moments that will live long in Ugandan football folklore.
South Africa started on the front foot, with Wayde Jooste and Keagan Dolly tormenting Uganda’s backline, but the Cranes stood firm. The first real chance for Uganda came in the 14th minute when Karim Watambala tested goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu, who denied him with a fine save.
The breakthrough came in the 31st minute after a swift counterattack led by Reagan Mpande, who teed up Patrick Kakande to deliver a precise ball for Ssemugabi to slot home, igniting deafening celebrations inside Namboole.
The tide, however, shifted in the second half. South Africa equalized in the 52nd minute through Ramahlwe Mphahlele, with VAR confirming the goal. Moments later, Thabiso Kutulema struck to put Bafana Bafana ahead 2-1. Uganda responded by introducing Ivan Ahimbisibwe, whose energy revitalized the attack.
But South Africa weren’t done. In the 78th minute, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo converted from a Keagan Dolly assist to make it 3-1, and Ugandan hearts began to sink.
Yet, the Cranes refused to bow out. In the 86th minute, Ahimbisibwe was fouled inside the box, and Allan Okello coolly slotted home from the spot to pull one back. With the crowd roaring them on and eight minutes of added time on the board, Uganda piled on the pressure.
Deep into stoppage time, VAR intervened once again, awarding Uganda another penalty. This time, captain Torach stepped up with nerves of steel, converting to level the game at 3-3 and sending Namboole into absolute pandemonium.
The Cranes held their ground in the dying minutes, securing the crucial point that took them to seven points, finishing as Group C leaders ahead of Algeria, Niger, and South Africa.
After six previous failed attempts, Uganda Cranes finally broke the jinx, storming into the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time in history — in the most dramatic fashion possible.
The Uganda Cranes are just a step away from making history as they gear up for their decisive final Group C match of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 against South Africa at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Monday evening at 8pm.
Workaholic midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala, who plies his trade with Vipers SC in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and featuring in his third CHAN tournament passionately expressed gratitude to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), the Government of Uganda, and the fans for their unwavering support throughout the campaign ahead of the big one against Bafana Bafana.
“We thank FUFA and the Government for everything they have done for the national team up to this day. We also thank the fans who have given us full support in all our games, right from our first match against Algeria, where we disappointed them, but hopefully, we gave them the happiness they deserve in our last two games. We call upon them to come in large numbers tomorrow as we play our last game, and we promise not to disappoint them,” Watambala said during the pre-match press conference on Sunday at Namboole stadium.
Watambala, one of the team’s most experienced players at this level, emphasized the importance of unity within the squad, noting that Uganda’s strength lies in collective effort.
“I also thank my fellow players because you can’t play alone on the pitch; we always have 11 players. We’ve worked together from the start and hope to continue with this spirit going forward.”
On the team’s readiness, Watambala exuded confidence, stressing that the group had learned from early setbacks and is determined to seize the moment.
“The boys are in good shape and aren’t willing to disappoint the fans. We’re all prepared and just waiting for the final day. We know where we’ve come from, and we know what it means. We had a setback in our first game, but we learned from our mistakes. We don’t want to disappoint the coaches and everyone who believes in us. We’ve had good preparations, and we’re good to go.”
The Cranes currently lead Group C with six points from three games, recovering strongly after a difficult start. Their 3-0 win over Guinea and 2-0 triumph against Niger have put them within touching distance of their first-ever CHAN quarterfinal berth.
A draw against South Africa will be enough to confirm qualification, while victory would ensure Uganda tops the group in style.
The Uganda Cranes are just 90 minutes away from making history as they take on South Africa in their final Group C fixture of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole tomorrow, Monday at 8pm.
Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso has emphasized that nothing short of victory is on his players’ minds despite needing only a draw to advance.
“South Africa is a good team, very strong in the final third, but we know what is at stake,” Byekwaso said at the pre-match press conference on Sunday at Namboole stadium.”
“We top the table because we worked very hard for it. We want a win regardless. Passing through the humiliation against Algeria and coming back stronger in the next two games shows we are prepared to make history.” He added.
The Cranes currently lead Group C with six points from three games, rebounding from a 3-0 defeat to Algeria with a 3-0 win over Guinea and a 2-0 triumph over Niger. However, they will be without midfielder Joel Sserunjogi who is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards.
“Missing Joel is challenging, but I trust all the boys. Every player has his moment, and someone will step up to fill the gap,” Byekwaso noted. He also praised the fans’ backing: “We thank the supporters who have been with us since the start. We call on them to come in big numbers and help us finish what we started.”
On the other side, South Africa head coach Molefi Ntseki underlined the magnitude of the tie for Bafana Bafana, who sit third in the group with five points.
“This is a very important match. We know that when we win, we progress to the quarterfinals,” Ntseki stressed. “It’s the final game of Group C, and all three teams want the win. We are ready to fight and will do whatever it takes to go past this stage.”
Group C Scenarios
Uganda Cranes: Need at least a draw to qualify; a win guarantees top spot.
South Africa: Must win to qualify.
Algeria: Require victory against Niger to progress.
Niger: Eliminated, playing for pride.
With history on the line and a passionate Namboole crowd behind them, the Cranes are closer than ever to breaking their group-stage curse. For Byekwaso and his charges, Monday night is more than a football match, it’s a chance to etch their names into Uganda’s football history.
The stage is set for a historic night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole as the Uganda Cranes stand just 90 minutes away from securing a place in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 quarterfinals.
Needing only a point against South Africa in their final Group C fixture on Monday, the Cranes are on the verge of breaking a long-standing barrier, having never progressed past the group stages in their previous six attempts.
The Cranes currently top Group C with six points, following Friday’s dramatic encounters that saw both matches end in stalemates.
Algeria 1–1 Guinea: The Syli Nationale looked set to grab a famous victory after taking the lead in the 62nd minute, but Sofiane Bayazid struck late for the Desert Foxes, ensuring Algeria moved to five points, one behind Uganda.
South Africa 0–0 Niger: In a frustrating night for Bafana Bafana, VAR denied them two penalty appeals, leaving them with just five points in third place. Niger, who are now mathematically out of contention, played spoilers with a resilient display.
The results mean Uganda sit in pole position and require only a draw against South Africa to seal qualification. Algeria face Niger in Nairobi in the group’s other fixture and a win will guarantee them qualification.
For Uganda, Monday’s game is more than just a group decider, it represents a chance to rewrite history. The Cranes have consistently stumbled at the group stage in past six CHAN editions. This time, with the support of a passionate home crowd, they are closer than ever to achieving the long-awaited breakthrough.
The Cranes will have to do without influential midfielder Joel Sserunjogi, who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. His absence is a blow, but the Cranes are expected to rally behind their depth and the energy of the Namboole faithful.
South Africa, sitting third with five points, will throw everything into the contest, knowing that only a win guarantees them a spot in the last eight. Bafana Bafana will lean on their attacking flair and youthful energy, but their inability to break down Niger showed vulnerabilities that the disciplined Cranes can exploit.
Uganda, on the other hand, are likely to balance caution with ambition. A draw is enough, but a statement victory would stamp their authority as genuine contenders for the title.
Uganda Cranes need at least a draw to qualify (a win secures top spot).
South Africa: Must win to progress. Algeria require victory against Niger to progress
Niger eliminated and playing for pride.
All eyes will be on Namboole as the Uganda Cranes aim to book their ticket to the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals with the roar of the home crowd behind them and history within touching distance.
In preparation for the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar, the FUFA Football Development Department, with the National Teams Office, has unveiled plans for an extensive scouting exercise to identify and nurture Uganda’s young football talents.
The U17 National team regional select trials at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru from 18th-24th August 2025, will beef up the squad for the tournament.
The 8 FUFA regions have been merged into combined select teams for balanced competition. The week long trials will be staged in a round-robin format.
The 8 FUFA regions have been merged into combined select teams for balanced competition. The week-long trials will be staged in a round-robin format where the regions will play against each other. Selected players from the trials will join the current U17 National team squad. The U17 National team technical staff will assess players for the provisional squad.
The initiative emphasises FUFA’s long-term vision of player development, ensuring that budding talents across all regions are given equal platforms to shine.
The regional teams will merge to form a team of 22 players for every two regions as follow;
Kampala & Buganda
Eastern & North East
Western & Kitara
West Nile & Northern
The U17 National team technical staff will assess players for the provisional squad. The initiative emphasises FUFA’s long term vision of player development, ensuring that budding talents across all regions are given equal platforms to shine.
FUFA Football Development Director Bashir Mutyaba notes that by merging regions, the programme guarantees a higher level of competition, fostering unity and shared experiences among young players. The trials will focus on teamwork, discipline, adaptability alongside individual performances.
Selected players will form the nucleus of the Uganda U17 National Team for rigorous preparation for the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
Uganda’s Group K opponents will be France, Chile and Canada at the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Uganda goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa has urged his teammates to quickly put aside the latest TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) victory against Niger and concentrate on the crucial final Group C encounter against South Africa.
The Cranes moved to the summit of Group C with a composed 2-0 triumph at Nelson Mandela Stadium on Monday night their first-ever back-to-back wins in CHAN history putting them within touching distance of a quarter-final berth.
Allan Okello opened the scoring midway through the first half, moments after seeing his penalty saved, before Joel Sserunjogi doubled the advantage with a clinical finish. Mutakubwa’s outstanding saves preserved the clean sheet and earned him the man of the match accolade.
‘We thank God for this moment. It’s something I’ve worked hard for and, most importantly, for the three points we’ve earned,” Mutakubwa said with visible pride after the match. “Following the loss to Algeria in the first game, we knew every match from then on was like a cup final, and the next one will be no different. South Africa are a strong side, so we have to regroup and prepare well.’
Okello admitted it was a tough battle but praised his side’s readiness.
‘It wasn’t an easy match, but we were prepared and fought for the nation,” the attacking midfielder said. “When I stepped up for the penalty, I was a little nervous, and unfortunately, it didn’t go in. Luckily, the rebound came my way and I made it count. Now our focus shifts fully to the last game against South Africa.’
Sserunjogi, who will miss the South Africa clash through suspension after accumulating two yellow cards, expressed faith in his teammates.
‘Of course I would love to be on the pitch, but I believe in the quality we have. Whoever gets the chance to play in my position will deliver,’ he assured.
Patrick Kakande echoed the team-first mentality.
‘For us, it’s always about the team, not individual performance. Everyone is working for the same goal, and we hope to finish the job against South Africa and qualify,’ he said.
The Cranes will face South Africa in their final group match, knowing a positive result could seal their place in the knockout stages.
FUFA wishes to inform members of the sports media that the application process for accreditation to cover the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier matches of Uganda against Mozambique and Somalia at Mandela National Stadium on the 5th September 2025 and 8th September 2025 is now open via the FUFA Media Channel on https://fufauganda.com/media/login/
You are kindly advised to log into your respective accounts to apply.
In line with the Club Licensing Regulations, all Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs are required to have head coaches holding a minimum CAF A licence starting from the 2025/26 season. This move, enforced by FUFA, is designed to raise coaching standards, improve the quality of play, and align the league with the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) professional requirements.
FUFA’s Club Licensing Committee confirmed that all 16 clubs have complied by submitting the names and qualifications of their head coaches ahead of the new campaign. The 2025/26 season will therefore kick off with every team led by a technically qualified and certified coach.
Belgian tactician Ivan Jacky Minnaert, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, will lead Vipers SC, while SC Villa will be under the guidance of Serbian coach Kovacevic Zeljko, a holder of a UEFA A Licence. KCCA FC have appointed Jackson Magera Kaddu and Brian Ssenyondo, both with CAF A Licences, to steer their technical bench.
NEC FC will be coached by Hussein Mbalangu (CAF A), BUL FC by Bogere Kikomeko Abbey (CAF A), and URA FC by Alex Isabirye Musongola (CAF A). Kitara FC will be in the hands of Lutalo George William (CAF A), while Maroons FC will look to Abdallah Loi Umar (CAF A) for leadership.
Express FC have entrusted Kaddu Badru Mukasa (CAF A) with the role, UPDF FC have appointed Gitta Alex (CAF A), and Police FC have Lule Mathias (CAF A). Mbarara City FC will be led by Mugerwa Simon Peter (CAF A), while Lugazi FC will have Mugerwa Francis (CAF A) in charge.
Calvary FC have appointed Kintu Jimmy Mwera (CAF A), Entebbe UPPC FC have Abdallah Mubiru (CAF A), and Buhimba United Saints FC will be coached by Anjelo Lonyesi (CAF A).
The introduction of a uniform coaching standard is also expected to inspire more local coaches to pursue advanced qualifications, bridging the gap between Ugandan and international football coaching standards.
FIFA has confirmed the dates for Uganda’s upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Mozambique and Somalia.
Uganda will first face Mozambique on 5 September 2025 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. Kick-off is at 7:00PM. On the same day Somalia will play Guinea at the same venue with an earlier kick-off at 3:00PM. Three days later Uganda will return to the Mandela National Stadium to take on Somalia on 8 September 2025. The match will start at 7:00PM.
These fixtures are part of matchdays 7 and 8 of the Group G qualifiers.
Uganda is forth in the Group G standings with 9 points above Guinea and Somalia. Algeria, Mozambique and Botswana sit above Uganda with 15, 12 and 9 points respectively.
Namboole Stadium, Monday Night, Uganda Cranes recorded their second successive victory in the CHAN 2024 Group C campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Niger, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages firmly alive. The win sees Uganda climb to six points from three matches, setting up a potential group decider against South Africa on 18th August.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso maintained the same starting XI that convincingly beat Guinea 3-0 in the previous outing, and his charges once again repaid the faith with an energetic performance in front of a passionate home crowd.
The Cranes started on the front foot, creating early pressure and winning their first corner in the 2nd minute. The high tempo was briefly interrupted in the 7th minute when Joel Sserunjogi was booked for a foul.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute after Enock Ssebagala delivered a dangerous cross from the left. Reagan Mpande’s attempted tap-in was blocked by a Niger defender, but in doing so, the ball struck his hand. Referee Ousmane Diakate of Mali consulted VAR before awarding a penalty.
Allan Okello stepped up, and although his initial spot kick was saved by goalkeeper Mahamadou Tandja, the playmaker reacted swiftly to slot home the rebound, sending the crowd into wild celebrations in the 25th minute.
Uganda nearly doubled the lead in the 32nd minute when Abdu Karim Watambala released Ssemugabi on the right, but the forward’s low effort whisked inches past the far post. Niger responded with a double substitution in the 35th minute, introducing Moussa Kassa and Samaila Danja to inject fresh energy.
The visitors almost leveled in the 40th minute through Latif Djibril, whose close-range attempt sailed just over the crossbar. Uganda held firm to take a deserved 1-0 lead into the break.
The Cranes resumed with the same attacking intent, and three minutes into the second half, Ssemugabi missed a good chance with a header from a Mpande cross.
In the 56th minute, Uganda found their cushion. Okello turned provider, slipping a clever pass to Joel Sserunjogi, who fired a precise strike into the net for 2-0. Moments later, Ssebagala was forced off with injury, replaced by Elvis Ngonde.
Niger made further changes in search of a way back, but the Ugandan backline, marshalled by a commanding Joel Mutakubwa in goal, remained resolute.
Byekwaso introduced fresh legs, with Patrick Kakande replacing Okello in the 75th minute, and later Ivan Ahimbisibwe and Usama Kiza coming on for Mpande and Ssemugabi in the final stages.
Mpande came closest to adding a third late on after a selfless pass from Ssemugabi, but his shot flew over the bar.
With six points from three games, Uganda will now turn their focus to a crucial final group fixture against South Africa on 18th August at Namboole. The Bafana Bafana will come into the match buoyed by their 2-1 win over Guinea earlier in the day – setting the stage for a potential group-deciding showdown.
Having regained momentum after their second game against Guinea, where they won 3-0 with goals from Reagan Mpande, Allan Okello, and Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Morley’s troops are more than ready to take on Niger in the third CHAN match.
With zero points in one game played, Niger sits last in Group C, while the Cranes sit second, one point behind the table leaders who have four points from two games played. The Cranes will face Niger tomorrow at 8:00 PM at Uganda’s Football Stadium, Mandela National Stadium, with high hopes of securing a top spot in their group.
Speaking during the final press conference, head coach Morley Byekwaso expressed confidence in his team, highlighting their readiness for tomorrow’s win.
‘All games are different; each has its unique challenges and technical approach. I can’t promise you that we’ll have the same lineup, but we might make a few changes depending on the opponent. The players who performed well last time will be given a chance tomorrow.’
Morley credited the fans for their support, promising not to disappoint them.
‘This game means a lot to us. We appreciate the fan base and the energy, but mostly, I thank them for showing up in large numbers last time. It was my first time seeing such a big crowd behind us. We respect them greatly and promise to give it our all best because winning this game would significantly increase our chances of advancing past the group stages.’
Regarding team news, Morley said, ‘The players who were injured last time are recovering well, but they’re not yet fully fit to start. We’ll make a final decision this afternoon on how to utilize them in tomorrow’s game. We need everyone – the technical team, fans, and players – to do their part. The boys have high morale, even more so than last time. We know Niger will be eager to win after losing their first game, but we’re ready to face them and secure the 3 points.’
Player Gavin Kizito added, ‘We lost our first game and bounced back with a win in the second. It’s possible for Niger to do the same. We can’t take them for granted; we need to win this game. Yes, we are ready to make every minute on the pitch count. Every player in the camp is prepared, and we’re ready to take on Niger tomorrow.’
The Uganda Cranes will play their last game on Friday, August 18, against South Africa.
