For the fifth year running, the FUFA Corporate Tournament will return this time round bigger and better.
Preparations for the 2019 edition are already in high gear with several teams/ organizations or companies already confirming participation.
Running under the theme line ‘Fun, networking and soccer,’ the main objective of the annual tournament is bringing together various companies in one place.
According to FUFA Marketing director, Esther Musoke, the past four editions have yielded dividends in terms of helping the various companies put out their brands.
“Whereas it is a chance for people to play soccer and have fun, the most important aspect is that many companies converge in one place and have their brands known.” She said before adding, “This tournament is a signature brand aimed to draw the corporate world for opportunities to make an impact in Ugandan football.”
Teams confirmed so far
21 teams have so far registered and confirmed their participation in the 2019 FUFA Corporate Tournament.
These include; Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel, Ecobank, BIDCO, Nile Special, National Insurance Corporation (NIC) and Bet Lion.
The others include; Diamond Trust Bank, National Water and Sewerage Corporation, Sanyuka TV, FUFA FM, Uganda Premier League secretariat, AALS, UMEME, Red Pepper, Roke Telecom, SOGEA, Post Bank, Sadolin Paints and Kyagalanyi Coffee Limited.
Registration
Registration to take part in the 2019 FUFA Corporate Tournament is still open up to 15th April at a cost of two million shillings only.
The winner will walk away with a trophy and cash prize of three million shillings.
Red Peppper Publications are the defending champions. They defeated SSL Logistics at Kampala International Schools Uganda (KISU) last year.
Teams confirmed
Civil Aviation Authority
Ecobank
BIDCO
Nile Special
Diamond Trust Bank
National Water and Sewerage Corporation
KISU
Sanyuka TV
FUFA FM 102.1
Uganda Premier League Secreatariat
Airtel
National Insurance Corporation
AALS
Bet Lion
Rock Telecom
SOGEA
Post Bank
Sadolin Paints
MAIN PHOTO: Red Pepper- Winners of the 2018 FUFA Corporate Tournament
FUFA Drum – Match Day 2 Fixtures (All Matches Kick off at 4 PM)
Saturday 13 April 2019
Bunyoro Vs Acholi – Kiyaga Primary School play ground, Hoima
Tooro Vs Kampala – St Paul’s National Seminary -Kabarole
Lango Vs Ankole – UTC -Lira
Sebei Vs Buganda – Kiprotich play ground, Kapchorwa
Sunday 14 April 2019
Rwenzori Vs Busoga – Nyahuka play ground, Bundibudgo
Karamoja Vs West Nile – St Daniel Comboni Primary School, Kotido
Teso Vs Bugisu – Soroti Sports Ground, Soroti
Kigezi Vs Bukedi – Kabale Municipal, Kabale
Match day two of the 2019 FUFA Drum competition will be held this coming weekend on Saturday, 13th April and the subsequent day.
The respective teams are roaring and eager for action following the opening weekend, a fort night ago.
As match day two kicks off, all the teams have received two sets of jerseys that will be used this very season.
This is an improvement from last season, where every province got only one pair of uniforms.
On Wednesday, during the weekly press conference at FUFA House in Mengo, the jerseys were officially launched and displayed before the media by the FUFA Drum local organizing committee chairperson, Rogers Byamukama.
‘There are two sets each for the 16 provinces in the FUFA Drum tournament. We are set for the match day two this weekend and the tournament is getting competitive by the day. Unlike last season, the gap between the teams has been narrowed down and this was proved during match day one where teams as Bunyoro picked a win away over West Nile in Zombo, Kampala lost to Rwenzori and Karamoja fell to Acholi away in Gulu’ Rogers Byamukama disclosed.
Lango Province striker Wanock Petit (L) battling with Buganda Province defender Enock Walusimbi in the opening match of The FUFA Drum. Both teams were in new sets of jerseys provided by FUFA.
Byamukama continued to applaud the great job done by the respective cultural leaders, team committees, sponsors and the media in promoting the tournament.
On Saturday 13 April 2019, there will be four games.
Bunyoro will take on Acholi at the Kiyaga Primary School play ground, in Hoima.
Tooro hosts a wounded Kampala side at the St Paul’s National Seminary in Kabarole district.
Lango, who lost their opening game to Buganda in Mukono faces Ankole at UTC play ground in Lira.
Meanwhile, Sebei will play host to Buganda at the high altitude Kiprotich play ground in Kapchorwa.
The other four games will come on Sunday 14 April 2019.
Rwenzori entertains Busoga at the Nyahuka play ground, Bundibudgo, Karamoja hosts West Nile in Kotido
Bugisu vists Teso at the Soroti Sports Ground as Kigezi will be home to Bukedi at Kabale Municipal, Kabale.
Team managers have been advised to submit their respective match day squads to FUFA within 48 hours from kick off for planning purposes.
The FUFA Drum tournament is embedded along the theme, ‘Celebrating our Ancestry’.
MAIN PHOTO: FUFA Drum organizing committee chairperson Rogers Byamukama (right) hands over a kit to Bukedi Province head coach Charles Namakola at FUFA House, Mengo in Kampala
We are back with the FUFA Monthly Newsletter- March 2019
It was an action-packed month that also saw the Uganda National Junior team (Under 17-The Cubs ) travel to Europe for a training camp before they returned home for yet another camp in Nairobi, Kenya all with the aim of preparing for the Total AFCON U-17 Finals.
The FUFA Newsletter brings you highlights of events held in March as per the FUFA calendar.
Bright Stars Vs Express– Champions Stadium, Mwerewe
Semi-finals (1st Leg): 24th – 28th April
Semi-finals (2nd Leg): 5th – 9th May
Finals: 25th May – At Masaka Recreational Ground
The Stanbic Uganda Cup semi-final draws were successfully held on Wednesday, 10 April 2019 at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala.
Kyetume will host Proline at Nakisunga Ssaza play ground in the first leg.
The second leg shall be between Bright Stars and Express at the Champions Stadium, Mwererwe.
Charles Namakola-winner of the Uganda Cup in 1976 with Gangama FC.Sam Timbe-Winner of the Uganda Cup in 1981 with Coffee FC.
The draws were conducted by two legends of the game, Charles Namakola and Sam Timbe, both winners of this prestigious tournament.
The first leg will take place between April 24th and 28th with the return legs expected to be played between May 4th and 9th 2019.
Proline head coach Shafik Bisaso and Kyetume CEO Henry Kayondo were also present to witness the draw first hand.
‘The draw is fair. Like the rules suggest, the winner with most goals will progress to the finals. We shall give our best over the two legs‘ Bisaso told the media.
FUFA Competitions Director Hajjati Aisha Nalule clarifies on the rules
FUFA Competitions Director Aisha Nalule further clarified about the rules of this tournament.
Article 24 (Fifth Round – Semi-finals)
1 – Shall comprise of 4 teams qualified from the fourth round
2 – This round shall be played over two legs played on home and away basis
3 – FUFA shall draw lots to generate fixtures for the fifth round.
4 – The team with more goals at the end of the return leg match shall be the winner of the match
5 – If teams are tying by goals at the end of the return leg match, the away goals rule shall apply
6 – If teams are still tying under Article 24 (5), spot kick shall be applied to determine the winner
Meanwhile, the FUFA Events manager Leila Nankya further urged the public to donate clothes and other items as part of the Social Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) cause attached to the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
Leila Nankya, FUFA Events Manager
‘We have been having such an arrangement where people donate clothes and other items to charity and we shall donate them to an identified project. The campaign is for two months and so far, we have covered one month. I call upon more people to donate clothes. The collection center is at FUFA House’ Nankya called.
The venue for final of this year’s Stanbic Uganda Cup has been confirmed as Masaka Recreational Stadium, hosted by Buganda Region.
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda football legends Charles Namakhola and Sam Timbe holding the Stanbic Uganda cup. Both are former winners of the prestigious cup.
CAF U17 AFCON – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (14th-28th April 2019)
Angola vs Uganda (Sunday 14th April 2019)
Uganda vs Tanzania (Wednesday 17th April 2019)
Nigeria vs Uganda (Saturday 20th April 2019)
Group A: Tanzania, Angola, Nigeria, and Uganda
Group B: Guinea, Cameroon, Senegal, and Morocco
Uganda U17 National Team flew to Dar es Salaam this morning for the Total CAF U17 final tournament to take place from 14th-28th April in Tanzania.
This was after a successful 10 day training camp in Kenya (1st-10th April) meant for acclimatization to the high temperatures of Dar es Salaam where two practice matches were played in Nairobi with Kenya U18 (0-0) and Gor Mahia FC U20 (4-4).
L-R; Ibrahim Juma, Kawooya Andrew, Mugisha Rogers, Idi Abdulwahid, Opira Justine, and Asaba Ivan celebrate their goal against Gor Mahia U(20) at Camp Toyoyo
A contingent of 31 which comprised of 21 players and 10 officials left Nairobi for Dar es Salaam aboard Kenya Airways.
The team is expected to carry out a mandatory MRI test on Thursday 11th April before their first fixture against Angola on Sunday.
Head Coach Paa Samuel Kwesi shared his mind about the two camps in Njeru and Kenya.
‘I think they are doing well, fortunately, we have an able assistant who did a good job, therefore, we are just adding onto what has been done already and so far it’s been good’ Paa Samuel Kwesi Fabin noted.
1st Ass. Magera Jackson Kaddu(L) with Head coach Paa Samuel Kwesi
While speaking about the away camp, he applauded the boys’ performance.
‘It is common knowledge that when you gather children at the U17 level and move them out of their country to another country it gives them enough energy to work hard due to that excitement and since we came in Kenya the boys have performed very well and improved day by day’ he added
Fitness trainer Derrick Osei Owusu with the youngsters during training at Utalii ground Nairobi, Kenya
Uganda is in group A with the hosts, Nigeria and Angola
The top two teams in each of the two groups in the tournament will qualify automatically for the U17 FIFA World Cup that will be held in Brazil.
Team travelling (21 players and 10 officials )
Goalkeepers:Oyo Delton (Kirinya Jinja SS FC), Jack Komakech (Ndejje University FC), and Mubiru Patrick (Bright Stars FC)
Rest of the Squad:Kevin Ssekimbegga (Express FC), Ibrahim Juma (KCCA FC), Kasozi Samson (Bright Stars FC), Kizito Mugweri Gavin (Vipers SC), Opira Innocent (Ndejje University), Ssekajja Davis (Bright Stars FC), Kakaire Thomas (Bright Stars FC), Iddi Abdul Wahid (Cagliari FC – Italy), Mwaka Polycarp (Ndejje University FC), Opaala Edrine Mukisa (Kirinya Jinja SS FC), John Kokas Alou (URA FC), Jarieko James (Paidha Black Angels FC), Asaba Ivan (Vipers SC), Najib Yiga (Vipers SC), Mugulusi Isma (Kirinya Jinja SS FC), Mugisha Rogers (Mbarara City FC), Opiro Justine(KCCA SA), Kawooya Andrew (Vipers SC)
Team officials:
Ariga Rasoul – Leader of Delegation
Paa Samuel Kwesi Fabin – Head Coach
Magera Jackson – 1st Assistant coach
Hamuza Lutalo – 2nd Assistant coach
Mubarak Kiberu – Goalkeeper coach
Osei-Owusu Derrick – Physical fitness coach
Emmanuel Nakabago – Team Doctor
Bashir Mutyaba – Team Coordinator
Omaria Bosco – Team Media Officer
Bumpenje Frank – Kit Manager
Main Photo: Players and officials at Sports View hotel, Kasarani where the team had the 10 day camp in Nairobi
The Stanbic Uganda Cup semi-final draw will be conducted at FUFA House on Wednesday, 10th April 2019, starting at 10 am.
Two StarTimes Uganda Premier League clubs Express FC and Bright Stars FC are joined by two StarTimes FUFA Big League sides Kyetume and Proline in the draws.
Express is the only remaining club in the competition that has ever won this tournament.
Along with KCCA, Express has also won the tournament for a record 10 times.
The other three clubs – Proline FC, Kyetume FC, and Bright Stars FC shall be playing the semi-finals for their very first time.
Stanbic Bank Head of Corporate Banking Ronald Muganzi (R) and Former ExpresS FC player Ashe Mukasa (L) during the Stanbic Uganda Cup quarterfinal draws at FUFA House
Proline FC eliminated last year’s defending champions Vipers SC 2-1 in the quarterfinals.
Kyetume FC were ejected by fellow Elgon group StarTimes FUFA Big League side Wakiso Giants 4-3 in post-match penalties after normal time had failed to produce any goal.
During the last 16 stage, they (Kyetume) had eliminated Kitara 1-0.
Bright Stars FC out-muscled hard battling Nebbi Central 1-0 in the quarterfinals.
Earlier, Bright Stars were 5-4 post penalty winners over Bumate United after a one all draw in normal time during the round of 16 contest.
The semi-final draws will be graced by two former Uganda Cup winners Charles Namakola and Sam Timbe.
Namakola won the championship with Gangama Football Club in 1976 and Timbe was at Coffee FC as a goalkeeper in 1981.
The defending champions, KCCA were eliminated by Tooro United at the round of 32 stage.
Tooro United was subsequently ejected by Wakiso Giants at the round of 16 level.
Stanbic Bank Uganda is the main tournament sponsor.
MAIN PHOTO: Coach Sam Timbe a former Uganda Cup winner will take part in the semifinal draws
The second edition of the FUFA Drum got underway on 24th March with thrilling action across the different grounds in Uganda.
From a closely contested encounter between holders Buganda and Lango to Bunyoro and Rwenzori stunning West Nile and Kampala respectively, the start quenched the anxiety of fans and lived up to the billing. More is still expected ahead of this weekend’s much anticipated fixtures.
Ahead of match day two slated for 13th and 14th April 2019, here are some of the key statistics that you need to know.
19 goals scored on match day one
A total of 19 goals were scored on the opening match day one in the eight games played. There was at least a goal scored in each of the games played.
However, this is a decline from the 24 goals that were scored on match day one last year.
Closer to the 200th goal mark
Prior to the start of the second edition, 141 goals had been scored in 2018. The addition of 19 goals means the tally has reached 160 goals.
Century mark goal
David Owori of Bukedi province scored the 100th goal of the tournament when his team defeated Kampala at StarTimes stadium, Lugogo in 2018. We wait to see who will score the 200th goal. The landmark comes along with cash prize from 102.1 FUFA fm.
Viane Ssekajugo stamps authority
Ssekajugo was influential as Buganda won the inaugural edition scoring four goals in the process and was also named the Most Valuable player of the tournament in 2018.
He scored the last goal in the first edition and also went ahead to net the first goal of the second edition as Buganda defeated Lango 1-0 at Bishop SS, Mukono.
Viane Ssekajugo scored the last goal of the FUFA drum in 2018 and was it again with the opener in this year’s edtion when Buganda edged Lango 1-0 in Mukono.
Improvement for Sebei province
Last season, Sebei lost all the games in the group and managed to score only two goals.
However, despite losing to Ankole on match day one in the second edition, there’s evident improvement scoring two goals in one game for the first time.
Sebei is a much improved team this year. They kicked off the new season scoring two goals-their grand total last season.
Match Day One Results
Bukedi 3-1 Teso
Ankole 3-2 Sebei
Acholi 2-0 Karamoja
West Nile 1-2 Bunyoro
Bugisu 1-0 Kigezi
Kampala 0-1 Rwenzori
Buganda 1-0 Lango
Busoga 1-1 Tooro
The fixtures for 13th and 14th April 2019
Saturday 13 April 2019
Bunyoro vs Acholi @4:00PM Kiyaga P/Sch -Hoima
Tooro vs Kampala @4:00PM St Paul’s National Seminary -Kabarole
Lango vs Ankole @4:00PM UTC -Lira
Sebei vs Buganda @4:00PM Kiprotich Kapchorwa
Sunday 14 April 2019
Rwenzori vs Busoga @4:00PM Nyahuka Grd -Bundibudgo
Karamoja vs West Nile@4:00PM Booma Ground-Moroto.
Teso vs Bugisu @4:00PM Soroti Sports Grd – Soroti
Kigezi vs Bukedi @4:00PM Kabale Municipal -Kabale
MAIN PHOTO: Bukedi’s David Owori receives his 100,000/= from 102.1 FUFA fm Administrator Medy Sengendo for scoring the 100th goal of the FUFA Drum Tournament
Uganda Crested Cranes has fallen 1-0 to Ethiopia during the return leg of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics qualifiers at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo on Saturday.
The Crested Cranes had a promising start where forward Fazila Ikwaput and Hassifa Nasuna troubled the visiting team.
Uganda also hit the cross bar through Ikwaput after a mistake by the Ethiopia goalkeeper.
Hassifa Nassuna in action
Loza Abera scored the lone goal on the evening in the 68th minute of the well-attended game also watched by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Executive Committee members, delegates and staff.
There were changes to the team in the second half.
Industrious Lillian Mutuuzo was introduced for Resty Nanziri at the very start of the second half.
Riticia Nabbosa and Sandra Nabweteme were later brought on for Yudaya Nakayenze and Fauzia Najjemba respectively.
Ethiopia qualified 4-2 on aggregate after their 3-2 victory in the first leg away in Addis Ababa last Wednesday.
Head coach Faridah Bulega had made four changes from the side which played in the first leg.
Crested Cranes captain Tracy Jones Akiror (right) in action at Lugogo
There were starts to striker Hasifa Nasuna, wingers Resty Nanziri, Fausiah Najjemba and Captain Tracy Jones Akiror.
US based striker Sandra Nabweteme, Lillian Mutuuzo, Phiona Nabbumba and Shamilah Nalujja all who commanded starting slots in the first leg started on the bench in the return leg.
Ethiopia advances to meet Cameroon to determine who goes through to the games next year.
Team captains with the match referees before kick offUganda Crested Cranes XI
CAF U17 AFCON – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (14th-28th April 2019)
Angola vs Uganda
Uganda vs Tanzania
Nigeria vs Uganda
Group A: Tanzania, Angola, Nigeria, and Uganda
Group B: Guinea, Cameroon, Senegal, and Morocco
Uganda U-17 National team (Cubs) played their second build-up match prior to the long awaited AFCON U-17 finals with Gor Mahia U-20 side on Friday at the Camp Toyoyo grounds in Nairobi
Cubs forward Mugisha Rogers amidst Gor Mahia U-20 opponents before a corner kick was taken.
The contest ended four goals apiece with the Ugandan youngsters exhibiting a typical fighting spirit as they recovered a from 4-2 situation at some stage to level matters.
Andrew Kawooya, Idi Abdulwahid and a brace of penalties from Ibrahim Juma lifted the Uganda Cubs.
Gor Mahia U-20 opened the scoring business with a stunner but midfielder Andrew Kawooya brought the game level with a decent free-kick just outside the penalty area before halftime.
L-R; Yiga Najib, Kawooya Andrew and Mugisha Rogers celebrate their equaliser before half time
Idi Abulwahid shot Uganda ahead before the Kenyan side drew level and further stretchered the lead.
Moments later, Ibrahim Juma converted from the penalty mark twice to make it 4 all.
This followed fouls on Idi Abdulwahid and Thomas Kakaire.
A moment of fair play and solidarity between the Cubs and Gor Mahia after the final whistle
The Cubs (Uganda 17) will spend 9 days (from 1st-9th April) before heading to Tanzania on 10th April for the U17 AFCON finals
The final tournament (U17 AFCON) will kick off on 14th and end on 28th April 2019 in Tanzania. Uganda is in group A with the hosts, Nigeria and Angola
The top two teams in each of the two groups in the tournament will qualify automatically for the U17 FIFA World Cup that will be held in Brazil.
Cubs starting XI against Gor Mahia U20, Back row L-R; Sekajja Davis, Idi Abdul Wahid, Komaketch Jack, Yiga Najib, Kasozi Samson and Kizito Gavin Mugweri (Captain). Front row L-R; Mugisha Rogers, Opiro Innocent, Kawooya Andrew, Asaba Ivan, and Ibrahim Juma.
Gor Mahia(U20) XI
Main Photo: L-R; Ibrahim Juma, Kawooya Andrew, Mugisha Rogers, Idi Abdulwahid, Opira Justine, and Asaba Ivan celebrate the forth goal against Gor Mahia U(20) at Camp Toyoyo
CAF Africa Women’s Tournament Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games Preliminary Round, ReturnLeg
Saturday 6th April 2019
StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo at 4pm
Fees: 5,000/=(Ordinary), 10,000/= (VIP) and 20,000/=(VVIP)
Uganda vs Ethiopia (Ethiopia leads 2-3 agg)
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega has released her team’s starting XI, for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics qualifier return leg against Ethiopia due this evening at Star Times Lugogo, Kampala.
Bulega made four changes from her team that lost 3-2 in the first leg away in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, handing starts to striker Hasifa Nasuna, wingers Resty Nanziri, Fausiah Najjemba and Captain Tracy Jones Akiror.
US based striker Sandra Nabweteme, Lillian Mutuuzo, Phiona Nabbumba and Shamilah Nalujja who started the Addis game, will start on the bench as Burega’s side goes for a do or die game.
Bulega maintained the central defensive pair of Aisha Namukisa and Shadia Nankya with their full backs Viola Namuddu (right) and Grace Aluka (left) while Yudaya Nakayenze will play with Akiror in the central midfield.
The Crested Cranes need only a 1-0 or 2-1 win to advance but a draw of any score will see them eliminated.
The winner from the two legs will advance to meet mighty Cameroon to determine who goes through to the games next year.
Daisy Nakaziro, Marion Amangat, Phionah Nabbumba, Shamilah Nalujja, Lilian Mutuuzo, Ritah Nabbosa, Zainah Namuleme, Juliet Nalukenge and Sandra Nabweteme.
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes captain Tracy Jones Akiror (Green) battles Hasifa Nasuna in a training session at Jinja-Kirinya grounds. Both players have been named in the starting line up to face Ethiopia at Lugogo.
Best Run Sports Federation: Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA)
Nile Special Male Footballer of the Year: Dennis Onyango (Uganda Cranes and Mamelodi Sundowns)
Nile Special Female Footballer of the Year: Ruth Aturo (Crested Cranes and UCU Lady Cardinals)
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) continues to set the trend and the right precedent.
FUFA was named the best run sports federation of the year, 2018 by the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) during the sports journalists’ annual sports awards and dinner ceremony held at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.
FUFA’s award was received by Executive Committee members Hamid Juma and Ronnie Kalema, handled over by Nile Breweries Limited official Onapito Okomolit, the legal and corporate affairs director at the beer company who are also partners of the football federation to finance the Uganda Cranes.
The other FUFA official in attendance was the Federation Marketing Director Esther Musoke.
The USPA accolade is affirmation and confidence in FUFA months after the national sports governing body, National Council of Sports (NCS) also named FUFA as the best sports run of the year, 2018.
To win the gong, USPA picked FUFA for the right governance structures, affluent accountability, good competitions (Star Times Uganda Premier League, Star Times FUFA Big League, FUFA Drum, Stanbic Uganda Cup, FUFA Women Elite League, Airtel FUFA Juniors League, Airtel Rising Stars, the regional leagues among others), as well as assembling different competitive national teams (Uganda Cranes, Crested Cranes, Hippos and Cubs).
In the year 2018, Uganda Cranes returned to the AFCON finals that will be staged in Egypt for the second time in a row following the Gabon championship in 2017.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magog holds the award that National Council of Sports (NCS) gave to FUFA
Prior to the last final group L game played against Tanzania, Uganda Cranes had not lost any game nor conceded any goal.
Also, the national U-17 team (Cubs) qualified for their maiden AFCON U-17 finals that will be staged in Tanzania this April.
The administration of Eng. Moses Magogo, the president of FUFA fronts the vivid vision of being the best on the African continent.
Under the FUFA and its Development Programmes element, the federation also works around the clock to ensure full professionalism, commercialisation of the game, generation of positive sporting results, sports as economic sector (discussions with tourism), strategy on a five year plan in the areas of governance, membership, marketing and communications, competitions (preaching the clubs Pro Agenda), infrastructure, technical development and strengthening the national teams’ brand.
Meanwhile, Uganda Cranes captain and first choice goalkeeper Dennis Onyango was named the Nile Special male footballer of the year.
The Mamelodi Sundowns shot stopper was outstanding for club and country during the year 2018.
In the same vein, Crested Cranes and UCU Lady Cardinals goalkeeper Ruth Aturo was named the Nile Special female footballer of the year.
Frank Kagyigyi Tumwebaze, the current Cabinet Minister of Information Technology and Communications was the chief guest, representing the First Lady, also the minster of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni.
Other high profile guests in attendance included Hon. Charles Bakabulindi (State minister of sports and USPA Patron), David Semakula Katende (Assistant General Secretary at National Council of Sports), other sports federation representatives, among others.
CAF Africa Women’s Tournament Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games
Preliminary Round, ReturnLeg
Saturday 6th April 2019
StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo at 4pm
Fees: 5,000/=(Ordinary), 10,000/= (VIP) and 20,000/=(VVIP)
Uganda vs Ethiopia (Ethiopia leads 2-3 agg)
Uganda National Women football team-Crested Cranes conducted their last training session on Friday evening at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Crested Cranes during training at Lugogo on Friday
The one and a half hour session mainly focused on team work, attack and transition under the watchful eye of head tactician Faridah Bulega, her assistant Edward Kaziba, Goalkeeping coach James Magala and physical fitness trainer Oliver Mbekeka.
Head coach Faridah Bulega showing the players some skills during training
The session was also watched by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (3rd L) and other FUFA staff at Lugogo watching Crested Cranes final training session.
After the session, Bulega assured Ugandans that she has prepared her team in the best way and ready for the encounter.
We are in good shape and ready for the game. The team has had a good recovery process since returning from Ethiopia. Our target is to win and qualify for the next level. We are at home and we must play to home advantage’ said Bulega.
Team Captain Tracy Jones Akiror is optimistic that the Crested Cranes have the ability to overturn the 3-2 defeat by Ethiopia.
We did not get the result we wanted but I’m happy that we got those two goals. I believe we have the ability to score not just one but many here’ said Tracy
CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympic Games Tokyo 2020
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia (Agg. 2:3)
StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Charges for Saturday 6th April 2019: Ordinary: 5,000/-, VIP 10,000/- VVIP 20,000/-
The National women football team, Crested Cranes today conducted a light training at the Prisons stadium in Luzira, Kampala.
The team returned in the early hours of Thursday morning from Addis Ababa, where they played but 3-2 to Ethiopia in the first leg of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games qualifier on Wednesday.
Head Coach Faridah Buega and her assistants talk to the players at Prisons ground in Luzira
On return, the team was ushered in at Sky Hotel in Naalya where they will stay till match day on Saturday at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Today, the players were taken through light drills but were interupted by a heavy downpour just like the case when they conducted their final training in Addis Ababa on Tuesday.
‘We are happy with the spirit with in camp but teh two goal are kepeingthe fire burning. I am hopeful we shall take on the advantage of the two away goals to overturn the result and qualify to the next round’ said Head Coach Faridah Bulega.
L-R Edward Kaziba-Assistant Coach, Olive Mbekeka-Trainer, Faridah Bulega-Head Coach, James Magala-Goalkeeping coach in a deep discussion
Uganda needs only 1-0 win on Saturday to qualify to the next round, where giants Cameroon stand in the way of whoever goes through.
Sandra Nabweteme leads the players into a stretching exercise (3)
The Crested Cranes team
Goal keepers:Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Defenders-Shadia Nankya (Uganda Martyrs), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens), Vola Namuddu (Makerere), Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Marion Amangat (Olila High School)
Midfeilders-Phionah Nabbumba (Ajax Queens), Tracy Jones Akiror (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Shamilah Nalujja (Isra Academy), Fausia Najjemba (Isra Academy), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens), Ritah Nabbosa (Lady Doves).
Strikers-Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals), Zainah Namuleme (Kampala Queens), Resty Nanziri (Kampala Queens), Sandra Nabweteme (Southwestern Oklahoma State University, USA) and Fazila Ikwaput (BIIK Kazygurt, Kazakhstan)
CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020
1st leg Ethiopia 3-2 Uganda
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Charges for Saturday 6th April 2019: Ordinary: 5,000/-, VIP 10,000/- VVIP 20,000/-
Uganda National women football team- Crested Cranes will be grateful to the two goals sored away in Addis Ababa against Ethiopia in the CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 1st leg fixture.
Ethiopia won the match 3-2.
The home side took an early lead following an own goal by Aisha Namukisa. As the first half was coming to a close, Uganda was handed a lifeline to level matters but Sandra Nabweteme’s well taken penalty kick hit the woodwork.
On resumption Loza Abera doubled for the home side in the 78th minute before Serkaddis Guta made it two minutes later.
The Crested Cranes never gave up as they kept looking for an away goal and their efforts paid off with two late strikes to carry back home for the return leg on Saturday at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Ugandan fans in Ethiopa cheering the Crested Cranes
They forced an error that led to Tarikuwa Debiso putting the ball in her own net under pressure while substitute Hasifah Nassuna got the other.
Crested Cranes will fly back from Ethiopia and arrive at Entebbe Airport at 1am. Ethiopia will jet in tomorrow afternoon.
Crested Cranes Head coach Faridah Bulega during the post match press conference in Ethiopia
1st leg Ethiopia Vs Uganda on Wednesday April 3 in Addis Ababa
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm at 4pm.
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega has named the starting team to face Ethiopia at the National Stadium, Addis Ababa on Wednesday evening. The match will be broadcast live on 102.1 FUFA fm starting 4pm.
Ruth Aturo has retained her position between sticks and will lead the team as regular skipper Tracy Jones Akiror starts from the bench.
The front three will have two foreign based stars Sandra Nabweteme, Shamirah Nalujja and stylish Zaina Namuleme.
Utility player Yudaya Nakayenze will play in the midfield together with Lilian Mutuuzo and Phiona Nabbumba.
The defensive duties will be controlled by Shadia Nankya, Aisha Namukisa, Viola Namuddu and Grace Aluka.
1st leg Ethiopia vs Uganda on Wednesday, April 3 in Addis Ababa
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia on Saturday 6th April 2019 at StarTimes Stadium
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm at 4pm
Crested Cranes lead striker Sandra Nabweteme is optimistic that they will pick up a decent result in Addis Ababa to carry back home for the return leg. Uganda and Ethiopia clash in the 1st leg of the CAF Africa Qualifiers- Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 on Wednesday.
Nabweteme joined the Crested Cranes on Tuesday evening after she had a scheduled interview with the US Embassy in Kampala.
Sandra Nabweteme during training in Njeru
‘I feel happy to join the team. We want to get a very good result here to take back home for the return leg. The players in camp are confident and ready to deliver come today. We shall work as a team and take responsibility of representing our country at all times’ said Nabtweme who plies her trade in the US with Southwestern Oklahoma State University, USA where she is a student.
Tuesday’s training session at the National Stadium in Addis Ababa was interrupted by heavy rains but head coach Faridah Bulega and her technical team took time to address the players on sevral key areas in preparation for the game.
Crested Cranes players warming up at the National stadium in Addis Ababa before the skies went loose with heavy rains
‘Apart from the rains that disorganised our training plans, the rest is very fine. We have had goof preparations for the fixture. I have a lot of trust in this team. We want to make this chance count a lot towards development of football in Uganda’ noted Bulega.
Team talk after heavy downpour disrupted the Crested Cranes training on TuesdayCrested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega in Ethiopia chacking on her watch before disrupted the training session on Tuesday
Crested Cranes Contingent in Ethiopia
Team Officials-
Leader of Delegation Agnes Mugena
Faridah Bulega-Head Coach
Edward Kaziba-Assistant Coach
James Magala-Goalkeeping coach
Olive Mbekeka-Trainer
Mable Kabatalindwa-Team Doctor
Paul Ssali-Team Coordinator
Team Media Officer-Muzamiru Mayiga
Prossy Nalwadda-Kits Officer
Ismail Kalanda Buyego –FUFA Delegate (Buganda region FA)
Shafik Mutebi- 102.1 FUFA fm
Harriet Nakimbuggwe- FUFA Secretariat Staff
Players
Goalkeepers: Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Defenders-Shadia Nankya (Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens), Viola Namuddu (Makerere-She MAK), Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslem SS Ladies FC), Marion Amangat (Olila High School)
The Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Museveni has applauded the Government of Uganda led by H.E the President Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the efforts it has invested in sports and the kind of motivation that has seen individuals and teams excel at different events.
She made the remarks while handing over the new luxurious and executive Uganda Cranes bus pledged by the President when he ho9sted the team at his country home in Rwakitura in January 2018.
‘I hope that the team (Uganda Cranes) will be excited about this bus. I am excited handing over this bus because it surely shows the Government’s commitment towards the development of sports in this country. I want to thank the Government and specifically the President for the immense support that has been extended to sports’ remarked the First Lady.
Minister of Education and Sports Mama Janet Museveni in a meeting with FUFA and NCS officials at Statehouse Nakasero before she handed over the Uganda Cranes bus.
The brief function held at State House Nakasero was also attended by officials from the Ministry of Education and sports led by minister of state for sports Hon. Charles Bakkabulindi, officials from the National council of sports with their chairman Bosco Onyik and acting General Secretary Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel.
The FUFA delegation was led by 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha who received the keys for the 49 seater bus from the First Lady.
The second vice President Darius Mugoye, third vice president who also doubles as state minister for youth and Children Affairs Hon. Nakiwala Kiyingi, Ex Com member Hamid Juma, deputy C.E.O Humphrey Mandu and Finace Director Decolas Kiiza witnessed the ceremony.
Uganda Cranes Vice Captain Hassan Wasswa represented the players. Assistant Uganda Cranes coach Matia Lule also attended.
Minister of Education and Sports Mama Janet Museveni greets Uganda Cranes Vice Captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda at Statehouse Nakasero.
In his acceptance speech Justus Mugisha thanked the Minister on behalf of Government for the consistent support to sports in the country that has resulted into enormous achievements.
Minister of Education and Sports Mama Janet Museveni greets FUFA Vice Preident Justus Mugisha who led the FUFA Delegation to Statehouse, Nakasero.
‘We are here to thank you and the Government for the consistent support you have given to sports in Uganda. Thank you also for offering to host us in Rwakitura at the start of last year for that visit has changed sports in unimaginable ways. Your support has enabled us achieve so much. We also want to thank NCS and the ministry for the support. However we have one other request, now that we have qualified let the funds be released on time such that the preparations start right away otherwise we promise you we are going to continue making you proud.’
Minister of Education and Sports (L) Mama Janet Museveni with Minister of Youth and Children Affairs also FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon Florecne Nakiwala Kiyingi at Statehouse Nakasero.Hassan Wasswa, Decolas Kiiza and Uganda Cranes bus driver Ahmed Kabali enjoying the comfort of the new bus.Minister of Education and Sports Mama Janet Museveni coming out of the new Uganda Cranes bus.Minister of Education and Sports Mama Janet Museveni in a group photo with the teams that attended the brief ceremony at Statehouse Nakasero.
Position: Defender but occassionaly deployed in attack (has 8 goals in the FUFA Women Elite League, Leading scorer with 7 goals in the FUFA Women’s Cup this season).
Nominee Airtel FUFA Women player of the year 2018
Winner-Two COSAFA Player of the match awards during the 2018 tournament in South Africa.
Shadia Nankya is Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga and Crested Cranes central defender, who only started playing soccer five years ago.
As a young girl in S.2 at Uganda Martyrs Lubaga in 2014, Nankya did not know exactly what she was doing, but only started getting excited to join boys to play the ball, but not on a serious note.
What started as a joke and a leisure activity for Nankya, has now paved way to stardom in women football, something she had never dreamt about.
Born 18 years ago to Kasimu Kizito and Rehema Nampijja of Kasangati in Wakiso district, Nankya is the last born in the family of five (one boy and four girls).
She is currently on the Crested Cranes team trying to qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games starting with a two-legged qualifier against Ethiopia.
Shadia Nankya is one of the finest female defenders in Ugandan football.
When did you start playing football? It is not far, I started playing the ball in 2014 when I was in S.2.
How did you get interested?: I had no interest in playing, because I didn’t even know there were girls that played football. Only, I would join boys both at home and at school, to play for leisure.
What was your parents’ reaction towards this? My mother did not like it at all; she used to discourage me. She never wanted me to play football, but I persisted outside her knowledge.
Crested Cranes defender Nankya Shadia (Red) takes on a player from Kampala Select team player Halima Katusabe at Kabojja IUIU Campus during a build up match for the National Team in March 2018
Did she react after finding out you kept playing secretly? The good thing my school (Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga) took me on a study bursary because I had the basics of the game. So when she learnt I had secured a bursary, she started feeling fine with my career. She is among the happiest people now.
Who has inspired you to keep on playing football? My siblings especially-my brother Shafiq Mubiru has been behind me and supports me so much. My coaches too have encouraged me both at club and National team.
What has been your lowest moment in football? Not really, but my first experience in the Elite Women’s League was a teaser. We were playing against relegation.
What is your highest moment in football? We have consecutively won the Lammenies’ football tournament, but again, having been summoned to play for the national team and of all, my double Player-of-The-Match accolade during the 2018 COSAFA event in S. Africa remains the greatest memory.
Nakya Shadia recieves the Player of the Match accolade from Timothy Shongwe-Chairman Competitions COSAFA.
How did you feel when you were called up to the National team? To be honest, my first time I felt scared but I only shared the scare with myself, I did not want to tell anyone. Because I was imagining how I would carry the whole nation on my shoulders, everyone was to see me, but I kept strong and we had a good game against Kenya in Machakos though we lost (1-0) and later held them to a 0-0 here in Kampala.
You one time played as a striker and scored many goals in a single game: Yes, after realizing my potential as a footballer, I have tried out several positions because I have kept having a growing ambition and determination. I can play anywhere but I love the central defence.
Check the height. Who can jump higher than me? Shadia Nankya goes for the ball in the air.
Talk about the CECAFA and COSAFA experience: It was all team work and determination that we performed the way we did in both tournaments. We were just unlucky that we lost the CECAFA title to Tanzania just on goal difference. We were underdogs but we surprised and challenged our critics.
For COSAFA still, we were guests and the smallest team in the event on record, but we still rose up to the occasion and were counted among the best teams. Finishing third and beating good teams like Zimbabwe and Zambia was encouraging.
Shadia Nankya (3rd L) taking on a Zambian player during the 2018 COSAFA Tournament in South Africa. She always keeps it tight in the backline for club and country.
You were voted MVP twice in the 2018 COSAFA: Yes, but the team work and the hard work led me to the accolades. I won’t take them as an individual achievement but for the whole team because we worked hard together.
What are your future plans? Playing for the national team for a long time is my major target because I want to keep representing my country. But I want also to focus on becoming a professional player.
Shadia Nankya celebrating with Yudaya Nakayenze while on National team duty after scoring against Tanzania in the 2018 CECAFA Women championship
Any attributes? Yes, I want to thank FUFA for having enabled girls to play football, opening up our career doors in the sport. They have involved us in every international event now. The AWCON qualifiers, the CECAFA and COSAFA outings last year then the Olympic qualifiers that we are involved in. This international involvement is going to improve our game, expose us to the world and keep us in love with the game and also encourage women football development in the country.
I also thank our parents for having enabled and allowed us to play soccer. The coaches, fans, teammates and everyone.
Shadia Nankya (3rd L) leaves her opponents fully beaten as she drives the ball away when Crested Cranes faced Kampala Regional side at Lugogo.
Who do you admire as a player? Locally I admire myself but for a male player I admire Hassan Waswa (Cranes central defender) because of what he does and how he makes everything appear easy. He was not originally a central defender but brought into the position which he has perfected well.
Internationally, I admire the S. African senior defender Janine Van Wyk because of her determination and hard work.
Any message to the young girl-footballers? Let them work hard and be focused. They should keep good discipline and respect their coaches and parents as well as committing their lives to prayer. They will realize their goals.
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes star player ShadiaNankya
