On Tuesday, 2nd January 2018, the Uganda Cranes and Netball She Cranes were hosted to a luncheon by the President of Uganda, H.E Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at his country home in Rwakitura, Kiruhura district.
The FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo led the FUFA delegation alongside the Uganda Cranes team that was also flagged off to Morocco for the TOTAL Africa Nations Championship tournament.
President Museveni hands over the Uganda flag to Uganda Cranes CHAN team captain Bernard Muwanga in Rwakitura
Eng. Magogo narrates the significance of the luncheon among others;
Five years ago as we tried to convince government to fund the national team, the then-Permanent Secretary Education wondered how we can look for money to transport people by air to go and play when UNEB was lacking funds.
The destiny of football could not go beyond the whims of the Permanent Secretary neither did it merit any seconds of thought.
Fast forward, today, I am here excited that FUFA’s advocacy agenda has delivered football and generally sports to the highest table of decision making in this country.
We have talked, written, demonstrated, lobbied, appealed, explained, and achieved sporting results to communicate the value of sport to Our Nation.
We are eventually getting there.
I will take the moment to thank HE the President of the Republic of Uganda and the 1st Lady and Minister of Education and Sports (MoES) for hosting both Football and Netball to their Country Home in Rwakitura on 2nd January 2018.
I was personally full of emotions that despite the busy schedule and several important programmes, the head of state and the first lady spent a full day with sportsmen freely talking to everyone, joking, playing, drinking, eating, laughing but most importantly talking sport.
The Grandchildren of the first family demanded to take pictures with the Uganda Cranes and narrated how they follow all Uganda Cranes matches.
Group photo with the head of state (in white shirt) as the grand children joined in the photograph with the Uganda Cranes team
The State house staff did not hide their excitement of mingling with the Uganda Cranes.
This is just a good sample to show how far we have carried the brand.
The Head of State believes that with tapping talent early and with proper feeding, our players will be able to shoot Enyanda.
He would relay minute by minute of the Uganda vs. Ghana AFCON Match where Isaac Isinde gave away a simple penalty and Farouk Miya hit a feeble ball instead of Enyanda like Bunyenyezi used to do.
We also discussed the economics of Sports and the moment of humour was when the 2 neighbours disagreed.
H.E the President thought when the players go out of the country for professional football it is good for them and the country while Maama Janet thought it weakens the league and has a domino effect on the national team as well.
The President and 1st Lady were being engaged in a deeply technical sports discussion and considering that both arguments carried weight, I proposed to postpone the debate of the neighbours to a later date.
The Minister of Education and Sports preached that the talent of sportsmen is a gift from God. She called upon all sportsmen and women to owe allegiance to the one true God.
She gave both football and netball 2 movies to watch thus “Facing the Giants” and “The Chariots of Fire”.
The Output of the Story is that we have delivered football and generally sport from the pitches to the final decision making office.
It continues to reverberate in my ears when Mrs. Janet Museveni in her own remarks said football is no longer recreational but an economic activity that promotes our country.
This attention of the first family has automatically and exponentially elevated the priority level of football and the Sports from a fitness activity to one that must be attended to urgently.
In marketing it is called *”Positioning”* and this is not accidental instead it has taken us strategies and time.
FUFA CEO Edgar Watson greets President Museveni at Rwakitura on Tuesday, 2nd January 2018
With this support, we have within 24hours engaged with the technocrats from the Ministry of Education and Sports, National Council of Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and as we speak, a supplementary funding to a tune of 13b UGX is being processed to support Football, Netball, Boxing, Athletics, Basketball, Rugby and Other Sports in the next 6months to the end of the 2017/8 Budget.
The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has also formally allowed the Ministry of Education and Sports to include the Activities for the 2018/9 Financial Year starting July 2018.
In principle, what the country has been crying for has been answered.
Government will hereafter provide funding in the National Budget for National Teams and the days of over staying the welcome of H.E the President by soliciting for funding from State House are gone.
I must mention specifically that the Minister of State for Sports Hon Charles Bakabulindi has been very instrumental in this achievement. I believe it is a bigger score than qualification to AFCON after 40 years.
L-R: Justus Mugisha (1st FUFA Vice President), Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi (3rd FUFA Vice President), Hon Sam Kuteesa, President Museveni, Sports Minister and first Lady Mamma Janet Museveni, Hon. Charles Bakabulindi (State Minister of Sports), Eng. Moses Magogo (The FUFA President) and newly named Uganda Cranes Sebastien Desabre
Thank you H.E the President, the first Lady and all the government officials who have made this happen
Saturday, 6th January 2018: Uganda Cranes Vs Guinea
Tuesday, 9th January 2018: Uganda Cranes Vs Congo
*Both matches will be played in Rabat City
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) confirms the two practice matches that Uganda Cranes will play before the TOTAL CHAN tournament in Morocco.
‘On Saturday, 6th January 2018, Uganda will face Guinea before taking on Congo on Tuesday, 9th January 2018’ Ahmed Hussein, the FUFA Spokesman, who also traveled with the team to Morocco noted.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre believes the two practice matches will help fine tune the team ahead of the 2018 TOTAL CHAN tournament.
‘These two build up matches are geared towards assessing the players’ readiness for the main tournament.’ Sebastien said in an earlier interview.
After the two build ups, the final team of 23 players will be communicated by the head coach who is working closely with his other technical staff (Fred Kajoba and Mathias Lule).
The team left Entebbe via Doha on Wednesday for a 10 day training camp in Morocco.
At CHAN 2018, Uganda Cranes is in group B alongside Zambia, Cote D’Ivoire and Namibia.
Uganda Cranes TOTAL CHAN 2018 Fixtures (Group B)
Uganda Vs Zambia – 14th January 2018 (Marrakech)
Uganda Vs Namibia – 18th January 2018 (Marrakech)
Uganda Vs Ivory Coast – 22nd January 2018 (Marrakech)
The Uganda Cranes delegation for the TOTAL CHAN 2018 tournament left on Wednesday afternoon.
The players and some officials pose for a group photo at Entebbe International Airport shortly before checking in
There were 25 players from whom the final 23 will be named after the two international build up matches against Congo and Cameroon.
This followed an early morning training session at the Africa Bible University (ABU) play ground in Lubowa before head coach Sebastien Desabre and captain Bernard Muwanga addressed the media.
Some of the Uganda Cranes players at the Entebbe International Airport departures lounge pointSome of the players led by Muzamiru Mutyaba (left) and Ibrahim Sadam Juma walking to the departures section at Entebbe International AirportUganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre with his laggageSome of the team officials pose for a group photographSheif Batte (left) and Nelson SenkatukaThe delegation in a group photograph at Entebbe International Airport shortly before checking in
Head of delegation is Mr. Hamid Juma, a FUFA Executive Committee member.
The team coordinator Joseph Kasana traveled ahead of the team to assist in the crucial team preparations programmes.
Delegation to Morocco:
Players:
Goalkeepers: Watenga Isma, Ochan Benjamin and Saidi Keni
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre has named a total of 25 players for a 10 day training camp in Rabat, Morocco.
The team left on Wednesday afternoon to Morocco in preparation for the Total CHAN 2018 championship.
This was after an early morning training session on Wednesday morning at the Africa Bible University (ABU) play ground before the 25 traveling players were named by head coach.
‘For the period i have worked closely with the team, i have at least assessed every member on the team. I will continue to monitor the fitness and mental readiness of the players as we play two international build up matches against Congo Brazzaville and Cameroon in Rabat’ the head coach noted after the final training session.
The two build up international matches will be played in Rabat city as part of the preparation for the team before the final 23 man team will be named.
The team left aboard Qatar Airways with stop overs in Kigali and Doha.
Team coordinator Joseph Kasana traveled ahead of the team.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Hamid Juma is the leader of delegation.
Some of the players and officials at the Entebbe International Airport shortly before departure
Delegation to Morocco:
Players:
Goalkeepers: Watenga Isma, Ochan Benjamin and Saidi Keni
President Yoweri Museveni has pledged that Government will continue to support Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) vis-a-vis with the Uganda Cranes.
The President made this assurance as he hosted the delegation of Uganda Cranes players led by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo, alongside the three Vice Presidents Justus Mugisha (1st Vice President), Darius Mugoye (Second Vice President) and Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi as well as the FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson
at his country home in Rwakitura, Kiruhuura District on Tuesday.
The President was speaking during a luncheon he co-hosted with First Lady Janet, who is also Education and Sports Minister, for the Uganda Cranes and the SHE Cranes (Netball national team).
He promised to boost support to the sports sector, especially by putting in place the necessary infrastructure that meets international standards, so as to develop the sports industry in Uganda.
Group photo with the head of state (in white shirt)
The President said although government has overtime been pre-occupied and dedicated most of her resources to crucial areas of the economy such as the road and electricity sectors, it was high time the country invested more resources to sectors such as sports which touch a big fraction of the population and have become a source of livelihood for many.
We have to plan and invest in sports because it touches majority of Ugandans.
We have 9.5 million children in primary, 2.5 in secondary and about 1 million in universities, technical colleges and other high institutions of learning and that is a big percentage of our population that can’t be ignored
The President however challenged the education and sports ministry to plan properly for the sports sector if the country is to excel in sports. He said even if resources were in place if there is no proper planning little would be achieved.
He congratulated the Uganda Cranes that finished 8th in Africa in the just concluded World Cup qualifiers and the SHE Cranes who are currently ranked 7th in the world, commending them for excelling even with minimal support from the government.
President Museveni however said the surge in numbers in schools and other learning institutions, which have become sports breeding grounds is because of other government programmes like immunization and universal education, which must be commended.
He added that although sports was largely for fitness and entertainment in the past it has now become a big source of employment and income thus deserving serious attention.
FUFA CEO Edgar Watson greets President Museveni at Rwakitura on Tuesday
The President therefore asked the Education ministry to embark on a process of identifying talent from a number of disciplines and ensure that government takes them over and nurtures them.
He proposed that such talented people should be attached to government departments such as the army, the police and prisons so that they can easily be facilitated and given training time and facilities.
Flag off for Uganda Cranes to CHAN 2018 in Morocco:
The President used the occasion to flag-off the Uganda Cranes team that will leave tomorrow to represent the country in the CHAN competitions that are taking place this month in Morocco.
President Museveni hands over the Uganda flag to captain Bernard Muwanga in Rwakitura
Mrs. Janet Museveni, the Education and Sports minister, thanked the Uganda Cranes and the SHE Cranes for their performances over the years that have lifted the country’s name and flag high.
She said although overtime sports has been known for building healthier nations through exercising, a new component of sports as a source of income has made it even more popular.
She, however, warned that the entry of big money into the sports sector poses a great danger to both the industry and sports personalities.
She advised young sportspeople against selling their souls to money and abandoning their country to seek citizenship of other countries that dangle money at them. She advised that they should always put God first in their engagements.
Eng. Moses Magogo, the president of the Federation of Uganda Footballers Association, said sports is a strong emerging industry in Uganda and a great tool for mobilization;
Eng Magogo noted;
Sports is a strong emerging industry in Uganda, whose natural resource is talent that he said is readily available and abundant.
Sports is also a serious tool for mobilization and source of employment that deserves all the support.
The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo with the Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre
Eng. Magogo hailed the Uganda Cranes as a great team that finished 8th in the just concluded World Cup qualifiers and said if African slots at the competition had increased to 10 like will be the case in 2022, Uganda would have qualified.
Uganda Cranes in only team in Africa to qualify for the CHAN competition for the fourth time in a row.
New Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre accompanied by the FUFA President is greeted by the Minister of Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni
The newly named Uganda Cranes head coach, Sebastien Desabre was officially introduced to the President and the minister of sports since his arrival in the country last week.
Meanwhile, the team training for Uganda Cranes continues on Wednesday morning in Lubowa.
L-R: Justus Mugisha, Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Sam Kutesa, President Museveni (white shirt ), Sports Minister Janet Museveni, Charles Bakabulindi, The President, Eng. Moses Magogo and Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Sebasre
Hours after entering the residential camp at the African Bible University (ABU) in Lubowa, the Uganda Cranes optimally utilized the available time with a one hour morning session held at the nearby International School of Uganda play ground.
All the 27 players in the camp responded well to the training session that involved ball work, game situation and lots of stretching drills.
New head coach Desabre Sebastien was fully in charge of the drills, closely assisted by his support staff Mathias Lule (first assistant) and Fred Kajoba (Goalkeeping coach).
Sebastien Desbare demonstrates to the players on 1st January 2018 at the International School of Uganda play ground
The squad will be reduced further to 23 players for the final submission to CAF by 3rd January, 2018.
Meanwhile, the Uganda Cranes delegation will head to the country home of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Rwakitura on Monday afternoon following the invitation from the head of state.
Allan Kyambadde (left) shields the ball away from Moses Waiswa during the Monday morning training session
The players in camp:
Goalkeepers: Watenga Isma, Ochan Benjamin and Saidi Keni
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) appointed a new Uganda Cranes coach Sebastien Desabre on a three year contract. The Frenchman will handle a National team for the first time in his coaching career but has vast experience garnered from some of Africa’s best football clubs.
FUFA Communications Department caught up with the 41 year old tactician and here are excerpts of the Interview.
FUFA: Since your arrival in Uganda, how has the reception been?
Sebastien: Ugandans are wonderful people. From the airport to where I stay now-the people are so friendly. I have received a warm reception. I love the environment.
L-R: FUFA Executive Committee Member Hamid Juma, Uganda Cranes coach Sebastien Desabre and FUFA CEO Edgar Watson
What was your playing career like and how did you become a coach at such a young age?
Sebastien: I played briefly in France in the semi-professional league as a left footed playmaker and soon I made up my mind to focus on the tactics interpretation and at only 26 years I started coaching but with a big dream of coaching a team in the world cup.
I came to Africa, then worked with some of the biggest clubs, won so many titles, gained enough experience and have now switched my focus onto coaching National teams and surely want to win titles with a National team.
FUFA: You have stated that your dream was to become a National team coach at 40 years. Did you ever believe that an African Country would be your first team?
Sebastien: I started my coaching career at a tender age of 26 in France, thereafter I got an opportunity to take charge of a big African team in Ivory Coast- ASEC Mimosa and this marked the beginning of my career in Africa but all along I have harbored a dream of managing a National team.
Before I could do this I needed to first understand the game in different countries. I am pleased that moment finally arrived for me to coach a National team and here we are now.
FUFA: How easy was it for you to choose International football with a National team especially Uganda Cranes?
Sebastien: I needed to take this step at some point and I think it’s a strong choice for me. It is a great moment for me to take charge of a National team that has potential because in this case Uganda Cranes has a nice and promising project. I feel ready to start given my experience.
Uganda Cranes XI against Ghana Black Stars at Namboole Stadium (2018 FUFA World Cup Russia Qualifier). Sebastien will be in charge of the Uganda Cranes.
FUFA:You have been in charge of some of the best clubs in Africa. As you come here Uganda was the best team in 2016 CAF Awards and undoubtedly the best in the region. What magic attracts you to the best teams?
Sebastien: For a coach it is very important to always strive to improve your knowledge and that is only achievable with big teams because you understand the functioning of so many things. For my last experience in Egypt, I stayed for 6 months and could have stayed longer but such opportunities don’t come every day and most importantly I felt the time was right to achieve one target of my career with a National team.
Sebastein during the Interview
FUFA: How hard was it for you to leave Ismaily FC, a good run of form, on top of the league log only to say bye to the fans after a 5-0 win?
Sebastien: Yes sure, I stayed there for only six months but had a great time and good working relationship with the players, my support staff and the fans. I had no choice at that moment, there was an opportunity befitting in my career target, a very big step in my career.
This team finished I think in the sixth position last season, I left them on top of the table after a very good run surely it was a hard choice but I feel I gave them the best in the time I was there. I would understand the fans’ feeling but now I focus on my new job because we have a very big project and a lot of work we intend to do.
FUFA:When did you fall in love with the Uganda Cranes to the extent that you could actually apply for the coaching job and later get it?
Sebastien: I enjoyed life in Ivory Coast, Angola and Cameroon. These countries have very many things in common with Uganda. FUFA has done a good job and consequently the team has performed very well in the past few years. My choice to come to Uganda was an easy one simply because the team has very great potential. First I am going to try to understand the functioning and organization of FUFA, local football as a whole and see how well I can implement my philosophy and methodology of the game.
Sebastien believes that FUFA has a good football project that he would want to take to another level. The FUFA Executive and Secretariat staff in Njeru shortly after the 16th Executive meeting this month.
FUFA: How easy was it for you to convince FUFA that you were the right man for this job?
Sebastien: The target of FUFA here is to develop and increase professionalism in the country which aligns very well with mine. The previous coach did a commendable job but now it is important for me to bring knowledge and add my input. I am happy and think it is a perfect project for me. I believe with my experience, my assistants and FUFA we can do a good job and go a long way.
FUFA: Working with local coaches as your assistants, how important could they be in this project?
Sebastien: It is very important for me. I need some time to understand so many things and how they are done. For that matter they (my local assistants) are going to be the link between me and the atmosphere (local football). It is also very important for me as a foreign coach to share my experience with the local coaches as well as learning from their experience. In life everybody has something or two that you can learn from one another.
FUFA:Uganda is up against Zambia, Ivory Coast and Namibia in the Total CHAN final 2018 in group B. How do you rate our chances?
Sebastien: I need to first evaluate my players. I know the Zambian team as well as Ivory Coast. They are strong opponents. I am going to check out Namibia and thereafter prepare my team very well. The ultimate target would be to win the competition, maybe it is possible maybe it’s not but we will work very hard to do well in the competition. The players are fresh from CECAFA and I am going to watch the videos. The two friendly games we are going to have before CHAN finals will help us to work on the weaknesses and adjust tactics.
The Uganda Cranes team that started against Rwanda in the return leg at Stade De Kigali during the 2018 CHAN Qualifiers. Sebastien is already wrking with the local crop.
FUFA: The Uganda Cranes boasts of a very huge fan base and confident of winning games when their team plays at home. What philosophy of football should the players and fans expect?
Sebastien: I have one Philosophy and One Methodology. Each coach actually has his style but may adjust accordingly depending on the situation or opponent. Personally I believe in the offensive style of play but in football it is very important to remain compact and to have defensive discipline as you play your fancy football. But this depends on the atmosphere of play, game, type of players, their level of skills, technical abilities among other things. All in all I like winning with style.
FUFA: Prior to your arrival here, we are certainly sure there could be some Ugandan players that caught your eye
Sebastien: I have watched many games in the past months, and can identify a number of them though no particular ones per say. However going forward it is going to be important to work with two axes; one in the local leagues as well as follow those who play outside. As a coach it is my role to identify new talent in the country but first I am going to focus on CHAN finals as this competition is at hand. I am going to use it to evaluate these players and thereafter embark on the road map to develop football in Uganda perhaps starting with the U20s and U23 teams.
FUFA: Denis Onyango, Uganda Cranes captain and the best goal keeper on the continent. Do you have a word about him?
Sebastien: Denis Onyango’s position is very important for the team and for me a goal keeper contributes about 50% to the team. That position is so vital because so many teams concede from set pieces so you need to have a keeper who can lift the team from the back. Onyango has great experience and spirit and personally feel very proud to have such a player on my team especially for the young players to learn from him. Immediately after CHAN I will have to speak with some of these players to explain to them this project because it is also important for cohesion of the coach and such star players of the team.
Sebastien values Denis Onyango highly between the Uganda Cranes posts
FUFA: What kind of message did you deliver to your players the first time you met them a few hours after being unveiled as Uganda Cranes coach?
Sebastien: I asked them to be professional and by this I want change of mentality, attitude as well as develop self confidence. Uganda has very good and talented players like I have already seen in my brief interactions so far. With discipline and right attitude on the pitch and outside they can be better players and we will achieve this step by step.
Sebastien Desabre with FUFA CEO Edgar Watson at Nambole on Thursday shortly after the unveiling ceremony
FUFA: Football in Uganda boasts of the biggest sports fan base in the country as you will see on one of those days in Namboole when Cranes is in action. What message do you have for the Uganda Cranes fans?
I believe in the saying; One team, one federation, One player, one ball, one staff and the fans. Without fans it is impossible to do those crazy things and create those fantastic stories.
One thing I have admired about Uganda in the time I have followed Ugandan football is the love for their National team. I want the fans to support the team 100% and also believe in the project we are going to work on.
I always labour to make my players understand that each minute on the field of play should be dedicated to the fans and the country.
A section of fans at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal during Uganda Cranes regional tourSebastien expects the players to give in 100% committment while donning the Uganda Cranes jersey.
FUFA: Any final message?
Sebastien: First I want to thank the federation (FUFA) for the confidence and trust they have invested in me. Secondly I thank Uganda as a country for the warm welcome since I stepped in the country on Thursday 28th December, 2017, it is been fantastic and I feel so proud. My promise to you all is that I will give the maximum of my possibilities to do a good job with this team and make everyone proud of Uganda Cranes.
Uganda Cranes Squad has been reduced to 27 players as the team continues with its preparations for the TOTAL 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) Finals in Morocco.
The players have enjoyed 4 days of non-residential training at both Namboole stadium and Maroons Stadium where the new Head coach Desabre Sebastien took full charge since his appointment by FUFA on Thursday.
The team will now head to Africa Bible University in Lubowa for residential camp at 4pm starting today. The squad will be reduced further to 23 players for the final submission to CAF by 3rd January, 2018. All training sessions starting Monday will be held at the nearby International School of Uganda (ISU), Lubowa.
Uganda Cranes coach Desbare Sebastien after training today:
‘It was short time for me to evaluate the players. We took preference for defensive and offensive. Those not selected will be followed at their clubs during the Championship (League). We need to focus on those going to camp so that we work on our targets before the first game against Zambia’
The Players to enter camp today are;
Goalkeepers: Watenga Isma, Ochan Benjamin and Saidi Keni
As part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) cause for the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), the Uganda U-20 side (The Hippos) out muscled Bulemeezi 1-0 in a charity match played at the game played at the Kasana play grounds in Luweero on Saturday.
Maroons’ midfielder Pius Obuya scored the lone goal in the 34th minute of the game after an enterprising move that involved Allan Okello, Julius Poloto and Canadian based midfielder Azake Luboyera.
Allan Okello in action
After that match, team assistant coach James Odoch who was in charge of the team applauded the players for a wonderful display and asked the federation to organized more matches for the Uganda Hipoos so as to keep them together to achieve the best from them .
‘The boys have displayed wonderful football and I promise with them together, the future of Ugandan football is bright’ noted Odoch.
He added that involving the young boys in charity initiatives will also help mould the boys into good citizens.
The match was intended to raise funds to buy maternity equipment for Luwero Health Center IV.
Group photo
Before the team proceeded to Kasana grounds, they paid a visit to the Luwero Health Center IV under the guidance of the in charge Dr Sarah Ogobi who said that the center receives over 400 patients a month amidst the meager facilities at the center.
She added that the maternity facilities aren’t also favourable for the mothers who deserve as a good environment before and after giving birth.
‘We are delighted for the initiative by the football federation to give back to Ugandans. We expect to gain from the initiative especially the mothers of this nation who deserves a conducive environment in the process of giving birth’ Said Dr Ogobi.
Uganda Hippos players in celebrations after scoring the lone strike of the match at Kasana play ground, LuweeroBulemeezi XI that faced Uganda Hippos team
While receiving the team, the mayor of Kasana Town Council Mukungu Paul Senyonga thanked the Hippos for representing the Uganda during the recent COSAFA U20 tournament and asked them to be mindful of people who support them whenever they are
playing and give back to them.
Dr Sarah Ogobi addressing the gathering
Uganda Hippos XI: Eric Kibowa(GK), Paul Willa, Herbert Acay, Godfrey Wasswa, Salim Kyobe, Victor Matovu, Julius Poloto, Allan Okello, Mujahid Burden, Pius Obuya & Azake Luboyera.
Substitutes (All used): Ali Mwirusi (GK), Charles Sebutinde, Rogers Tabule, Faisal Sekyanzi, David Owori, Frank Semakula and Hassan Jarua
Uganda Cranes preparations for the Total 2018 African Nations Championships (CHAN) finals in Morocco saw the new head coach Desabre Sebastien take full charge of the team at Maroons Grounds in Luzira on Friday afternoon.
The Frenchman who was unveiled on Thursday at FUFA House had a full sight of the entire squad summoned for National team duty except for defender Savio Kabugo.
Time to learn new tactics from Sebastien.
The one and half hour session involved players featuring in 11 aside games with different teams formed from the 38 players who trained today.
Sebastien’s assistant Matia Lule and Goalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba were on duty too.
Sebastien sharing notes with goalkeeping coach Fred KajobaGodfrey Lwesibawa waiting for his turn to get tactics from assistant coach Matia Lule and Head coach SebastienBattle between Milton Karisa (L) and defender Isaac Muleme during training on FridayKasule Abubaker (L) being tracked by Brian Ahebwa during trainingMedia moment for Uganda Cranes coach Sebastien after training
The team will return to Luzira on Saturday afternoon (4pm) for another session.
Sebastien addresses media after the training session on Friday
My job is to be on the pitch. It is important for me and the technical team to assess the players during this first session. It was a good session. We have started official work today until when we play our first game against Zambia during the CHAN Finals in Morocco.
We have about four days left to forward the players’ list to CAF but we need 2-3 three days to take a good decision on the final squad.
I can evaluate players when there is competition and that is what I saw today in training.
Character will be a key element for the entire team but I have seen quality players during training.
Players’ reactions after the training session on Friday
Milton Karisa-Vipers SC
The players expect to learn a lot from the new coach. It is natural that when a new coach comes in, he will deliver on new tactics. It has been good session.
Saddam Juma-KCCA FC
We tried to show the coach what we have in stock in terms of talent and skills. I am looking forward to work with the new coach Sebastien.
Muwanga Bernard –SC Villa Jogoo
It was good experience with him on the first day. We can pick up the language easily with what he says. Communication was very good.
Sheif Batte-Bright Stars FC
It was nice to train with the new coach. He is very technical. He told us to believe in ourselves. Let us wait for tomorrow’s session again.
Thomas Ikara-K-Jinja SSS FC
I expect the team to look different because the coach looks good. However we need to work hard to see that we don’t let down our country. An appearance in Morocco for the CHAN Finals is what all players here are dreaming about.
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes coach pondering the next move of tactics to pass on to his players during training at Maroons Stadium, Luzira on Friday afternoon.
The Uganda Cranes team has officially commenced training at Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Thursday.
A total of 38 players attended the one and a half hours’ session held at the outside training facility under the coaches Mathias Lule and Wasswa Bbosa.
Newly named head coach Sébastien Desabre, fresh from the official unveiling hours earlier at FUFA House also attended the session for at least 40 minutes.
The players in a stretching drills after the training session on Thursday
Sébastien also spared time and shared his experience with the players.
‘I am happy to meet you. I am ready to serve the national team. I call upon professionalism from each one of you to have a great time together. You are good players ready to face anybody’ the coach who was accompanied by the FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson, Hamid Juma, Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee members), Patrick Ntege Kaweesa (National Teams’ manager), Joseph Kasana (Team Coordinator), and the team’s Media officer Ahmed Hussein.
After a few minutes, he was accompanied back to his hotel for rest ahead of Friday afternoon training session alongside his assistants Lule and Fred Kajoba (goalkeeping coach).
Assistant coach Lule expressed delight upon the arrival of the new coach.
New coach Sébastien greets Mathias Lule at Namboole stadium outside training ground on Thursday
‘We are happy to recieve our brother Desabre. We shall give him all the necessary due support as we build a winning team. We are all ready to learn from each other’ Lule stated.
Mathias Lule addressing the media
The final team to Morocco shall be constituted of 23 players.
The 41 players summoned (In Red are the new inclusions):
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) officially unveiled Desabre Sebastien as new Uganda Cranes Head coach on a 3year deal at the FUFA Headquarters in Mengo, Kampala on Thursday, 28th December 2017.
Desabre, a 41 year old French national arrived in the country at noon on Thursday before he was unveiled at a fully packed media presence.
‘I am very happy to be in Uganda. I am more than ready to serve Uganda Cranes’ Desabre told the media in a brief address.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Hamid Juma, New Uganda Cranes coach Desabre Sebastien and FUFA CEO Edgar Watson at the unveiling ceremony in Mengo
The unveiling ceremony was conducted by the FUFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Edgar Watson, flanked by the FUFA Executive Committee Member Hamid Juma who represented the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (away on official duties) and Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Committee member), FUFA Delegates and staff.
Watson warmly welcomed the new coach to Uganda.
‘We welcome our new coach Mr. Sebastien Desabre from France. This is Uganda and please you are warmly welcome. The process to select the National team coach was very successful with 92 applicants, 5 of whom were Ugandans. Government was fully involved in the entire process. Sebastien will supervise all the National Development teams (U-23, U-20 and U-17) because FUFA’s philosophy is to build football from the grass-roots’ Watson noted.
Working Team:
Sebastien will be assisted by Mathias Lule as the immediate assistant coach and Fred Kajoba (Goalkeeping coach) and Ahmed Hussein (National teams’ Communications Manager).
The team coordinator for the CHAN 2018 tournament is Joseph Kasana. Patrick Ntege is the National teams’ Officer.
Physician Ronald Kisolo and Ivan Ssewanyana are maintained as the team Doctor and physiotherapist respectively.
After the unveiling ceremony, the coach was hosted on the federation radio station, 102.1 FUFA fm where he also addressed the general football family.
Coach Desabre on 102.1 FUFA f.mThe unveiling of the new coach drew a mammoth crowd of journalists from the different media housesUganda Cranes new head coach Desabre addresses the media at FUFA House
Later, Desbare wasted no time to gel with the players preparing for the TOTAL CHAN 2018 tournament in Morocco as he watched the first training session at Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole from the sidelines later on Thursday evening.
New Uganda Cranes Head coach Desabre Sebastien meets his assistant Matia Lule at Namboole
L-R FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, National Teams’ Officer Patrick Ntege and new Uganda Cranes coach Desabre Sebastien at Namboole stadium.
FUFA applauds Moses Basena for his efforts during the period he has served as Interim coach of Uganda Cranes.
FUFA appreciates Basena’s achievements with Development and results registered during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup, qualifiers for the CHAN and 2018 FIFA World cup Russia.
As a result, Basena has been selected by FUFA for a Special Coaching Development Programme in the United States of America next year.
Basena will become the first Ugandan coach to benefit from this programme that will involve other domestic coaches in future.
FUFA Introduced the Long Term coaching programme as a way towards developing coaches for further educational progammes with an aim of improving the technical expertise of our coaches actively involved in the League.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo has called upon Ugandan referees to uphold the key values of Integrity, Performance and Fitness to guarantee their status as FIFA referees.
He made the remarks while handing over the 21 badges to the FIFA referees for the year 2018 during the brief ceremony held at FUFA house, Mengo on Wednesday morning.
On the same day National badges were presented to the various FUFA regions.
‘It is very important for you to understand the process we are undertaking. We are trying to be open and transparent as much as we can in the process of determining Ugandans to the International list. It is about Integrity, Performance and Fitness. For as long as you have those 3, you will be on the list for as long as the rules of the game’ said FUFA President.
New kid on the block Shamirah Nabadda (L) receiving her FIFA badge from FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo. Also in the picture is Hamid Juma FUFA Executive Cmmittee Member.
‘In case of challenges with Integrity, Performance and Fitness as a federation we will always come in to protect the game’
Jane Mutonyi receives her FIFA Badge
‘FUFA’s mission is to be the number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field and that includes referees. To achieve that we have put in place a system that will reject you if you don’t meet the criteria, we want to have the best referees’ added Magogo.
Ronald Katenya with the FUFA President at FUFA House
‘We believe you are our best referees so we expect you to perform to the best of your abilities’
The FUFA President further advised the referees to be cautious about conduct both on and off the pitch since they are International referees and are expected to conduct themselves accordingly.
Lydia Nantabo Wanyama receives her badge from FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo
Issa Masembe who spoke on behalf of his colleagues thanked the FUFA President, his Executive, and the FUFA Referees Standing Committee for the opportunity and trust placed in us to be Uganda’s top crop of referees and further promised not to disappoint the country at large.
Brian Nsubuga (L) with FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo
The function was attended by Hamid Juma-FUFA Executive Committee Member, Ronnie Kalema-Chairman Uganda Football Referees Committee and FUFA Executive Committee Member, Ndawula Kalema-Appointments-Referees and Samuel Egesa-Referees Manager
The list of Uganda FIFA referees 2018;
Male referees: Miiro Brian Nsubuga, Muhabi Alex, Ssali Mashood, Sabilla Ali Chelangat and Oloya William.
Assistant referees; Ssonko Mark, Okello Lee, Katenya Ronald, Okello Dick, Balikoowa Musa Ngobi and Masembe Issa.
Beach Soccer: Kintu Ivan Bayige, Mugerwa Shafic and Ssenteza Muhammad
Women referees: Ssemmambo Aisah Nabikko, Naigaga Habiba and Nabadda Shamirah
Women Assistant referees; Nantabo Lydia Wanyama, Nagaddya Catherine Cynthia, Nakitto Marex Nkumbi and Mutonyi Jane
FUFA Badges given out in Regions
FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga (2nd R) with top football brass from West Nile Region FA after handing over the National badges to the referees.
Western region
FUFA Executive Committee Member Chris Kalibbala (L-Front Row) with Chairman Western Region FA Sekka Mutaka (R-Front row) in Mbarara on Wednesday after handing over FUFA badges to the referees.Northern region FA National referees after getting their 2018 FUFA badgesEastern region FA Referees after receiving the 2018 FUFA badges. FUFA Executive Committee member Issa Magoola is carrying the ball.Buganda Region FA Referees with FUFA Executive Committee Member Hajji Addul Lukooya.North East Region FA referees with Cahirman John Odong together with FUFAExecutive Committee Member Agnes Mugena in Soroti.FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Byamukama (holding the ball) with National referees from Kitara Region.
1st Copa Dar Es Salaam Tournament (Group Stage Results for Uganda:
Uganda 5-9 Zanzibar
Uganda 4-7 Malawi
Tanzania 6-5 Uganda Sand Cranes
Third Place play off match:
Tanzania 5-4 Uganda
The team captains with the referees before kick off for the third place match
Results not withstanding, Uganda Sand Cranes head coach Salim Jamal Muwonge believes the first ever Copa Dar es salaam beach soccer championship has provided a great experience for the players and administrators alike.
Uganda finished fourth after losing narrowly 5-4 to the host Tanzania at the Coco beach in Dar es salaam.
The two day’s tournament was played on Christmas and boxing day.
Action from the Uganda vs Tanzania match
According to coach Muwonge, the tournament gave his players the true feel of international football after a months of activity, apart from the league.
‘This was our first engagement in the year and I’m happy that we have learnt from the tournament. We now know our strong and weak points and will work on them before the CECAFA Beach Soccer tournament which also will serve as the AFCON qualifier. We have learnt great lessons from this invitational tournament. First of all, we thank our brothers from Tanzania for inviting us. At the time being, performance on the sand will matter most than the results registered. This is a great preparatory tournament for us ahead of CECAFA 2018 which will also act as an AFCON qualifier‘ Muwonge said.
THE BATTLE FOR THE BALL IN THE SAND: A Tanzanian player battles for the ball with a Ugandan
Players as Ronald Mungwari and Paul Lule, who were first timers on the team stood out with outstanding individual and team displays with odd goals during the respective fixtures.
The team managed one win in the group stages, 7-6 against Tanzania and two losses to Malawi and Zanzibar.
They also lost out 5-4 in the third place play off match.
This was the first time that the Copa Dar es salaam was being organized and it will be an annual event.
Meanwhile, Ronald Magwali of Uganda emerged the top scorer of the tournament with 8 goals.
Ronald Magwali (middle with a trophy) finished as top scorer with 8 goals. On the left is Bashir Mutyaba (UBSA Technical Director) and head coach Jamal Salim Muwonge on the right
Focus now switches to the CECAFA 2018 beach soccer championship that will be hosted in Entebbe, Uganda.
The Uganda National Beach Soccer Team put up a spirited show during the COPA Dar es Salaam over the Festive season but found the going tough against Zanzibar and Malawi on Christmas Day at Coco Beach.
Uganda Sand Cranes that took on Zanzibar
With both games played on Monday, the Sand Cranes kicked off the show with gret resilience but fell to Zanzibar 5-9 where Mugwari Ronald and Katwe Allan netted two goals each. Lule Paul also got his name on the score sheet.
Their next fixture was against Malawi but Sand Cranes lost by three goals (4-7).
Mugwari netted a hat-trick to cap his day with 7 goals while Lule got the other in the game Sand Cranes took on Malawi.
Uganda Sand Cranes head coach Salim Jamal Muwonge is optimistic they will recover from the slow start.
‘We had a spirited performance partially attributed to fatigue. But we shall recover in the subsequent game on match day two’ Muwonge stated.
Here are some pictures from the two matches played on Christmas Day
