FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Author: Ahmed Marsha

Youth Football: Exciting FIFA Grassroots festival held in Kampala

The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) Grassroots girls and boys football youth programme has continued to take shape in Uganda.

After the ground breaking ceremony over 12 months ago at the Busega Community primary school in Kampala, the programme was rotated in the various divisions of Kampala – Kawempe and Rubaga.

Later, it spread wings across the various parts of the country in Jinja, Mbale and lately Mbarara in Western Uganda (the programme will continue to expand to the other regions of the country).

Over 100 children enjoyed the Grassroots football festival at the Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo in Kampala

On Friday, 23rd September 2016, the festival returned to Kampala Central at the Phillip Omondi stadium, Lugogo as part of the activities to officially mark the start of the second edition of the FUFA Juniors league.

FIFA Technical Development Officer and Grassroots football instructor Govinden Thondoo from FIFA’s development offices in Gaborone, Botswana, FUFA Technical Director Asuman Lubowa, National Grassroots Coordinator Willis Muwanguzi and other trained grassroot football instructors graced the festivities.

Grassroot football is part and parcel of the football development process.

This is a way we can tap and develop talent.The festival gives opportunity to many kids to realize their dreams

About 100 children (girls and boys) from schools around Kampala and the surrounding areas attended the festivities.

In the opening match of the day of the FUFA Juniors’ League, KCCA Soccer Academy defeated Police Armless Brigade 4-1.

The match was also attended by the FUFA second and third Vice president Darius Mugoye and Dennis Mbidde respectively.

Commissioner from the Ministry of Education and Sports, Daniel Omara Apitta, KCCA F.C head coach Mike Mutebi, FUFA Secretariat staff also graced the opening day.

September 23, 2016
Tekwo nets solitary goal as Express beats Vipers in the Azam Uganda Premier League

Former URA midfielder Derrick Tekwo netted the all important goal for Express FC who edged Vipers SC 1-0 at Nakivubo stadium on Friday evening.

Tekwo netted in the first half to send his team to third on the table at 11 points, one point behind leaders KCCA FC who play BUL FC on saturday at Kakindu stadium. Express FC are tied on 11 points with eternal rivals Sc Villa Jogoo but the red eagles have played a game more than Villa who are on 5 outings.

Saturday fixtures-Kick off 4pm

Lweza vs JMC Hippos

Soana vs Bright Stars FC

ONduparaka vs Police FC

The Saints vs Kirinya Jinja SS

Proline vs URA

September 23, 2016
FUFA Juniors League (U-17) 2016/17 season kicks off on Friday at Philip Omondi stadium
Programme for Launch of the FUFA Juniors League (U-17) at Lugogo on Friday
- 1 p.m -Grassroots Football festival for players under 12 years
- 4 p.m: Opening Match; FUFA Juniors League match KCCA Soccer Academy vs Police Armless Brigade Junior Team
- The league will resume on 2nd October with seven games on card in the FUFA Juniors League
Groups:

Treble: BUL Junior Team, URA FC Junior Team, Onduparaka FC Junior Team, Police Armless Brigade Junior Team, KCCA FC Soccer Academy, Vipers Junior Team, Sadolin Paints Junior Team, Proline Soccer Academy

Hat trick: JMC Hippos FC Junior Team, Lweza Orange Brigade, Express Junior Team, The Saints Junior Team, Sc Villa Jogoo Junior Team, Soana Soccer Academy, Kirinya Jinja Junior Team, Bright Stars Junior Team

FUFA has confirmed that referees who uderwent the FIFA Youth Refereeing course at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru last month will be appointed to handle all matches of the FUFA Juniors League this season. The course was for participants below 20 years.

The Juniors League for clubs in the Azam Uganda Premier League for the 2016/17 season will be launched on Friday 23rd September at the Philip Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

The FUFA Referees Manager Samuel Egesa has released the appointments made by the FUFA Referees standing committee.

‘These young referees will fit in well with the players of almost their age. FUFA has taken football to various parts of the country and we are now giving different stakeholders to handle matches after attaining the proper qualifications’ said Egesa.

Referees named for the opening match

Emmanuel Opio from Bukedea (North East) will officiate the opening match between KCCA FC Soccer Academy and Police FC Armless Brigade Junior Team.

Opio will be assisted by David Ssengonzi (Kampala region), Beine Bernard (Western Region) and Mukasa Abdul Razak (Eastern Region).

Onduparaka FC CEO Anthony Afeti (L) receiving equipment from FUFA Technical Director Asumani Lubowa.

‘We have finalized plans for the launch of the new season on Friday.

Teams have received the equipment donated by FIFA in support of youth football development in Uganda’ said FUFA Youth Development Officer Bashir Mutyaba.

FUFA has also confirmed that no club will be allowed to use players who have not undergone the mandatory MRI tests conducted at Mulago Hospital of players to establish the true age for the U-17 category.

Teams receive equipment

Equipment donated by FIFA include a full set of jerseys-20 pieces, 20 shin guards, 20 football boots, 20 training bibs and 15 soccer balls were distributed to the clubs on Thursday morning at FUFA House in Mengo.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by FIFA Technical Development Officer Govinden Thondoo and FUFA Technical Director Asuman Lubowa.

Soana FC CEO Moses Tusiime admiring the equipment given to his club at FUFA House on Thursday.

‘It is clear indication that FIFA and FUFA have continued to support football development at youth level’ said FUFA Technical Director Lubowa.

Vipers Junior Team celebrate after winning the FUFA U-17 league last season

Vipers SC Junior Team is the defending champion following a 4-2 penalty shoot out win over KCCA FC Soccer Academy at Kawempe Muslim Senior Secondary School sports ground in June.

MAIN PHOTO: Sc Villa Jogoo CEO Ivan Kakembo at FUFA House receiving sports equipment from FUFA Youth Development Officer Bashir Mutyaba.
September 22, 2016
FIFA President Congratulates FUFA upon Uganda Cranes qualification for AFCON 2017 Finals

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has sent a congratulatory message to the President of FUFA Eng. Moses Magogo upon Uganda Cranes victory over Comoros that led to the country’s qualification to the 2017 AFCON finals in Gabon.

The top most head in world football wrote the message and signed it off dated 20th September, 2016.

Cranes edged Comoros 1-0 thanks to a Faruku Miya goal to end Uganda’s drought at the appearance of the continent’s soccer show piece that had eluded the country since 1978.

Here is the congratulatory message from FIFA President Gianni Infantino;

‘I would like to send you my heartfelt Congratulations on your qualification for the Africa Cup Of Nations 2017 after beating Comoro 1-0 on Sunday, 4 September 2016.

This is the first Uganda National team qualification for the AFCON since 1978 and it is certainly no fluke. It is the result of a long effort by you, the Uganda football community and thanks to the tireless government assistance.

After saying that, i simply encourage you to continue to develop football in Uganda and send you my assurances that we shall be beside you every step of the way.

With my best wishes for the future of Ugandan football’

Infantino’s message follows others from the National Council Of Sports, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Kyabazinga-Busoga Kingdom and former players of the Uganda Cranes.

Uganda Cranes will know their opponents for the 2017 AFCON Finals in the draw to be conducted on 19th October, 2016.

MAIN PHOTO: Thumbs up by FIFA President Gianni Infantino for FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo following Uganda Cranes victory over Comoros that led to AFCON Qualification.

September 21, 2016
FUFA President lauds Uganda Crested Cranes upon good show at 2016 CECAFA Women championship

The Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) President, Eng. Moses Magogo has hailed the enormous effort exhibited by the Uganda Crested Cranes players and the members of the technical team at the recently concluded CECAFA Women championship which was held at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.

Eng. Magogo was addressing the players and technical committee members of the team at a luncheon held on Tuesday at Jevine Hotel in Kampala.

I want to thank all the players and members of the technical committee for your effort at the CECAFA Women championship.

Finishing among the top four countries was good enough given the fact that we were playing countries already established.

He also singled out the role of the Women Elite League whose main purpose was intended to inspire hundreds of girls with the intention of joining the women football bandwagon.

The Women Elite League was purposely started to increase visibility and involvement of women in football in the country. Add to the Uganda Crested Cranes, you ought to be good ambassadors

Uganda Crested Cranes head coach, Majidah Nantanda appreciated the efforts of the federation to help the game of women football grow through leaps and bounds.

I am personally so happy for the efforts of FUFA towards the growth of women football. Secondly, i was equally excited witnessing a pool of players compete positively on the team. Seeing the players fight for the team was a great gesture.

FUFA Executive Committee member, Agnes Mugena thanked the technical team, media, players and FUFA for the opportunity given to the female players at the CECAFA Women championship.

I am grateful to FUFA, the media, players for everyone’s effort in development women football. We need more exposure as clubs and the national team itself for better performance

Team captain, Christine Wanyana called for the continued women footballers’ empowerment, more rewards towards the outstanding players and continued participation of the female footballers in other aspects of football affairs – management, coaching and refereeing.

Each of the players and members of the technical team received a financial package as per the national team’s well stipulated proportions.

September 21, 2016
Refereeing: FUFA submits 29 names for FIFA badges 2017

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has submitted 29 names of referees to Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) for consideration of the FIFA Badge for the year 2017.

There are seven center referees, eight men assistant referees, four women center referees, six women assistant referees and four beach soccer referees.

Men – Referees:

Brian Miiro Nsubuga, Dennis Batte, Alex Muhabi, Mashood Ssali, Ali Chelangat Sabilla, Ali Bakisula, William Oloya

Men – Assistant Referees:

Mark Ssonko, Lee Okello, Ronald Katenya, Hussein Bugembe, Musa Balikoowa Ngobi. Dick Okello, Samuel Turyomuriwe, Samuel Kakembo

Women – Referees:

Aisah Ssemmambo Nabikko, Anna Akoyi, Habiba Naigaga, Shamirah Nabadda

Women – Assistant Referees:

Catherine Cynthia Nagaddya. Marex Nakitto Nkumbi, Docus Atuhaire, Jane Mutonyi. Lydia Wanyama Nantabo, Diana Murungi

Beach Soccer Referees:

Ivan Kintu Bayige, Shafic Mugerwa, Muhammad Ssenteza, Moses Ssebuliba Ssekamatte

September 21, 2016
Uganda Cranes team to face Togo and Ghana released

Uganda Cranes Up-coming matches:

International Friendly match: Tues, 4^th October 2016

Togo Vs Uganda – Kegue Stadium, Lome

2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier (Group E): Friday, 7th October 2016

Ghana Vs Uganda – Tamale City

Uganda Cranes team to face Togo and Ghana in the international build up and FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifier respectively has been released by the head coach, Milutin Sredojevic on Wednesday, 21st September 2016.

This was during the weekly press conference at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala.

Micho was flanked by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo, National Teams’ Officer Patrick Ntege and the FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein.

The coach congratulated the players and FUFA upon the historic qualification to the AFCON 2017 finals in Gabon.

He quickly called immediate preparations for rest of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers that start with the Ghana away match.

I thank all stake holders who helped us achieve.

We need to the halt the celebrations and start preparations for the Togo and Ghana away games.

The Uganda Cranes will play Togo on 4th October 2016 in the international friendly match before the 2018 FIFA World Cup group E qualifier against Ghana that will be played in Tamale City.

The locally based players will start training on 1st October 2016 after the Azam Uganda Premier league matches on 30th September 2016.

Many of the foreign players will fly directly to Lome.

Uganda Cranes team:

Goalkeepers: Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Salim Jamal (El Merriekh, Sudan), Benjamin Ochan (KCCA, Uganda), Ismail Watenga (Vipers, Uganda)

Defenders: Nicholas Wadada (Vipers, Uganda), Dennis Iguma (Al Ahed, Lebanon), Joseph Nsubuga (SC Villa, Uganda), Isaac Isinde, Murushid Jjuuko (Simba, Tanzania), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka, Uganda), Timothy Awany (KCCA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Joseph Ochaya (KCCA, Uganda), Godfrey Walusimbi (Gor Mahia, Kenya)

Midfielders: Mike Azira (Colorado Rapids, United States of America), Geofrey ‘Baba’ Kizito (Than Quảng Ninh, Vietnam), Aucho Khalid (Baroka, South Africa), Ivan Ntege (KCCA, Uganda), Moses Oloya (Kuban Krasnodar, Russia), Tonny Mawejje (Knattspyrnufélagið Þróttur, Iceland), William Luwagga Kizito (Rio Ave, Portugal), Abdulmalick Vitalis Tabu (SC Villa, Uganda)

Strikers: Hamis ‘Diego’ Kizza (Free State Stars, South Africa), Geofrey Massa (Baroka, South Africa), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Sondjerskey, Denmark), Yunus Sentamu (Ilves, Finnland), Farouk Miya (Standard Liege, Denmark), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers, Uganda), Muhammed Shaban (Onduparaka, Uganda), Edrisa Lubega (Proline, Uganda)

September 21, 2016
CECAFA Women Championship: Tanzania triumphs, Uganda finish fourth

2016 CECAFA Women championship:

Final: Kenya 1-2 Tanzania

3^rdPlace play-off: Ethiopia 4-1 Uganda

Tanzania won the 2016 CECAFA Women championship after overcoming Kenya 2-1 in a very thrilling finale watched by the biggest crowd at the ten day championship.

Omari Mwanahamisi netted a brace in the final. Kenya had their consolation through Christine Nafula.

In the third place play off, Ethiopia defeated Uganda 4-1 to finish third overall.

Hasifa Nassuna gave Uganda the lead in the fourth minute before the Ethiopians rallied to score four goals through Erhima Zeregaw (three goals) and Losa Abera.

A section of fans who watched the final two games of the CECAFA Women Championship at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru on Tuesday

Uganda Crested Cranes’ Hasifa Nassuna finished as top scorer with six goals.

Kenya Football Federation (KFF) president Nick Mwendwa was among the hundreds of fans in the stands of the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.

Kenya’s Christine Nafula (6) dribble past through several Tanzanian players during the final on Tuesday.

CECAFA General Secretary Nicholas Musonye was joined by other dignitaries from the region.

The tournament chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Rogers Byamukama lauded the spirit of CECAFA, FUFA, the multitudes of fans who attended all the matches, other members of the Local Organizing Committee and the media towards the successful efforts of organizing the event.

September 20, 2016
Press conference: Micho to announce Uganda Cranes squad for Togo and Ghana matches

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) will host their weekly press conference on Wednesday, 21st September 2016 at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala.

During the press conference, the Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin Sredojevic will announce the full squad set to travel for the Togo international build up and the FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifier against Ghana.

FUFA Head of Communications, Ahmed Hussein confirms the development;

The Uganda Cranes head coach will address the media this Wednesday to reveal the team for the Togo and Ghana matches. At the same time, the travel arrangements, team preparation will also be revealed. The media is urged to keep time for the press briefing that will start at 10 a.m

Some of the sports journalists during a previous press conference held at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala

Uganda Cranes will face Togo on 4th October 2016 in Lome before playing Ghana on the 7th October 2016 in Tamale.

MAIN PHOTO: L-R FUFA Finance Director Decolas Kizza, Ahmed Hussein (FUFA Communications manager), FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic and the Chairman of the Technical Committee Hamid Juma during a previous press conference

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

September 20, 2016
2016 CECAFA Women Championship: Stage is set for the last two fixtures

2016 CECAFA Women Championship:

Final (Tues, 20^th Sept):

Kenya Vs Tanzania – 3:30 p.m

Third place play off:

Uganda Vs Ethiopia – 1:30 p.m

At the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

The stage is set for the last two fixtures at the 2016 CECAFA Women football championship.

Kenya takes on Tanzania in the final match after hosts Uganda Crested Cranes will have played Ethiopia in the opening third place play off match.

On Monday, the mandatory teams’ pre-match meeting was followed by a press conference addressed by CECAFA General Secretary, Nicholas Musonye flanked by the CECAFA Women Tournament Local Organizing Committee chairman, Rogers Byamukama, CECAFA media officer Rogers Mulindwa and other CECAFA officials.

The match referees have been named for the two matches.

Ethiopia Vs Uganda Match Referees:

Center Referee: Carolyne Wanjala (Kenya)

1st Assistant Referee: Mary Njoroge (Kenya)

2nd Assistant Referee: Speciose Nyinawabari (Rwanda)

4th Official: Salma Mukansanga (Rwanda)

Match Assessor: Maqulate Atieno Onyango (Kenya)

Kenya Vs Tanzania Match Referees:

Center Referee: Anna Akoyi (Uganda)

1st Assistant Referee: Docus Atuhaire (Uganda)

2nd Assistant Referee: Woinshet Abera (Ethiopia)

4th Official: Suavis Iratunga (Burundi)

September 19, 2016
Azam Uganda Premier League: All the 16 clubs in action on Tuesday
AZAM UGANDA PREMIER LEAGUE

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

SC Villa vs Proline, Mandela National Stadium-Namboole (4:00 pm) live on Azam TV

Other games all kick off 4.30pm
- KCCA vs The Saints, Lugogo
- Bright Stars vs Sadolin, Matugga
- Express vs Bul, Wankulukuku
- JMC Hippos vs Vipers, Bugembe
- Kirinya–Jinja SS vs Onduparaka, Kakindu
- Police vs Soana, Kavumba
- URA vs Lweza, Lugazi
The Azam Uganda Premier League returns on Tuesday after a 10 day’s break with eight matches on the menu.

Table leaders, KCCA host The Saints at Lugogo in a fixture either clubs would wish to get maximum points owing to the last results posted.

KCCA fell 2-1 away in Arua to Onduparaka and The Saints lost by the same margin to Express at Bombo

Martin Mpuuga and Lawrence Kasadha will miss the fixture with different injuries for KCCA.

The Live game on Azam Television will be at Nelson Mandela National Stadium when Sports Club Villa host Proline.

Proline’s forward Edrisa Lubega has been ruled out of the tie with a leg injury.

At the Mehta stadium in Lugazi, URA entertain Lweza. The tax collectors triumphed in their last game 3-1 away to Jinja Municipal Council Hippos Hippos on the last match day.

The Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku fotress will see the home side Express host BUL football club who are yet to win a game.

Vipers travel to Kakindu stadium to play Jinja Municipal Council Hippos as Sadolin Paints will be away to Mwererwe against Bright Stars.

Caesar Okhuti marks his second debut at Onduparaka football club when the Arua club plays Kirinya-Jinja S.S away to Bugembe Stadium.

Elsewhere, Police will host Soana in the Kavumba derby, the first for Sam Ssimbwa who was recently named head coach at Soana.
September 19, 2016
FUFA President: Uganda Crested Cranes on a positive learning curve

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President, Eng. Moses Magogo has praised the Uganda women national football team, Crested Cranes upon their gradual and positive progression over the years.

FUFA is impressed about the performance of the Uganda Crested Cranes.

Qualifying to the semi finals was a big bonus itself. The team had a target of at least playing five games at this championship which has been fulfilled.

This tournament has been beneficial through exposure of the players

Women football in the country is steadily on the rise

Eng. Magogo made the remarks shortly after the Crested Cranes bowed out of the CECAFA women tournament at the semi final stage when they fell 4-1 to Tanzania, at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru.

He was flanked by the Primary Education State Minister, Hon. Rose Mary Seninde , Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel (FUFA Executive Committee member and Chairman of the FUFA International Match Organizing Committee), Rogers Byamukama, members of the technical committee and other FUFA staff.

The Crested Cranes have been among the seven teams at the on-going CECAFA Women championship that was hosted by Uganda at the FUFA Technical center in Njeru.

The tournament climaxes on Tuesday with the final two games.

Uganda Crested Cranes will play Ethiopia in the third place play off match at 1:30 p.m and Kenya will take on Tanzania in the finals at 3:30 p.m.

September 19, 2016
CECAFA Women Championship 2016: Uganda bows out at semi-final as Kenya sets up final with Tanzania

CECAFA WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIP 2016:

1st Semi-final: Kenya 3-2 Ethiopia

2nd Semi-final: Tanzania 4-1 Uganda

Final (Tuesday, 20th September 2016): Kenya Vs Tanzania – 3:30 p.m

Third-place play off: Uganda Vs Ethopia – 1:30 p.m

Uganda Crested Cranes bowed out of the 2016 CECAFA Women championship at the semi final stage.

This was after falling 4-1 to Tanzania Kilimanjaro Queens in the second semi final played on Sunday at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru. before a very passionate crowd.

Part of the crowd that watched the semi-finals of the 2016 CECAFA Women championship

Daniel Donisia, Omari Mwanahamisi, Abdalla Stuami and Rashid Asha scored the goals for the visitors.

Hasifa Nassuna was on target late in the game for the Uganda Crested Cranes consolation.

This was Nassuna’s fifth goal of the tournament, taking her top of the top scorers’ chart.

In the first match of the day, Kenya overcame Ethiopia 3-2 in a very exciting match.

Uganda Crested Cranes’ XI against Tanzania Kilimanjaro Queens

Christine Wanyana (Uganda Crested Cranes captain) alonngside the Tanzanian counterpart Rashid Asha together with the match referees. Suavis Iratunga (Burundi) with the ball was the center referee. Mary Njoroge (Kenya), the first assistant. Second assistant Abera Woisnet (Ethiopia), fourth official Carolyne Wanjala (Kenya)

Tanzania Kilimanjaro Queens XI that faced the Uganda Crested Cranes during the semi-finals on Sunday

Losa Abera gave Ethiopia the lead after 36 minutes but Kenya rallied back through Nedy Atieno Okoth (brace) and Carolyne Anyango Omondi.

Abera scored later on to give the game a tense and thrilling finish but Kenya held on strongly to win the day and progress to the finals.

Now focus turns to the third place play off match and finals on Tuesday.

Monday is a rest day, the second of the tournament after Saturday’s first resting day.

The crowd at the pavilion wing of the FUFA Technical center, Njeru cheered every move on the ball

Uganda Crested Cranes head coach Majidah Nantanda appreciated the effort of the players thus far and called for focus ahead of the third place match.

MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Crested Cranes’ striker Fazila Ikwaput leaves a Tanzanian opponent for dead during the semi final match on Sunday at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

September 18, 2016
FUFA Juniors League 2016/17: Age verification exercise underway

Preparations for the 2016/17 FUFA Juniors League (FJL) kicked off on Saturday, 17th September 2016 with the age verification exercise.

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has paid for the MRI scan at Mulago Hospital for each of the players registered for the 2016/7 FJL season.

All this has been under taken to curb on the rampant vice of using over aged players.

Eight teams attended the age verification exercise on Saturday at Mulago Hospital-Radiology Department.
These were; KCCA SA, Express FC JT, Jinja SSS JT, URA FC JT, BUL FC JT, SC Villa Jogoo JT, Lweza FC JT and JMC Hippos JT

KCCA Junior Team

The exercise resumes on Sunday with the other 8 teams namely; Police JT, Proline JT, Bright Stars JT, Soana JT, Sadolin Paints JT, Vipers JT, Onduparaka JT and The Saints JT.

Background:

The FUFA Juniors League (FJL) was introduced in 2015. It is now a mandatory requirement for all the 16 Uganda Premier League clubs to have a junior side.

Regulations for quotas in player registration have been drawn to utilise products of the FJL in the AUPL

Meanwhile, FUFA will host the CECAFA U17 Championship in January 2017.

FUFA will pay the monthly salary of the head coach of each of the U17 sides of the AUPL.

Vipers Junior Team is the reigning champion of the FUFA Juniors U-17 Elite League.

MAIN PHOTO: Kirinya-Jinja S.S players shortly after the testing exercise at Mulago Hospital on Saturday.

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

September 17, 2016
CECAFA lauds FUFA, media, referees, fans & other stake holders for incredible women tournament

Th Council of East and Central Africa Association (CECAFA) Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye has appreciated the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), the fans, referees, media, Government and all the other stake holders who have worked tirelessly to make the tournament a complete success.

Musonye was flanked by the tournament chair person of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Rogers Byamukama and the CECAFA media officer Rogers Mulindwa while addressing the media during a press conference on Saturday.

I want to thank everyone for their respective endeavors to make this tournament a complete success.

FUFA took upon the initiative to host the tournament without any sponsorship and are very commendable for taking the big risk.

The media has publicized the tournament so well. Government has provided the healthy political climate to enable the tournament progress successfully.

The referees at this tournament have been the best so far and to all the fans, you have exhibited a true CECAFA spirit of not only supporting the home team but attending each and every match that has been played.

Musonye hailed the sporting spirit portrayed by all the seven countries that took part in the tournament.

He confirmed the new kick off times for the two semi final clashes as 1:30 p.m for the first game on Sunday of Kenya and Ethiopia as well as Tanzania taking on host nation Uganda at 3:30 p.m.

Byamukama too appreciated the participating countries and the media for making the tournament a complete success.

To make this tournament happen, i want to thank all the countries that took part and the media which has marketed the tournament.

At this juncture, we now have a platform upon which we can lure sponsors on board.

The referees for the semi final have also been released during the pre-match meeting for all the teams.

The pre-match meeting held for all the countries on Saturday morning at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

Semifinal 1: 1.30 p.m Kenya vs Ethiopia

Center Referee: Mukansanga Salma (Rwanda)

Assistant Referee 1: Nagaddya Catherine (Uganda)

Assistant Referee 2: Nyinawabari Speciose (Rwanda)

4th official: Jonesia Rukyaa (Tanzania)

Match Commissioner: Lina Kessy (Tanzania)

Referees Assessor: Catherine Adipo (Uganda)

Semi final 2: 3.30pm Tanzania vs Uganda

Center Referee: Iratunga Suavis (Burundi)

Assistant Referee 1: Mary Njoroge (Kenya)

Assistant Referee 2: Woisnet Abera(Ethiopia)

4th official: Wanjala Carolyne (Kenya)

Match Commissioner: Rwemarika Felicite (Rwanda)

Referees Assessor: Onyango Maqulate (Kenya)

September 17, 2016
Uganda Crested Cranes players reactions towards the team’s progress to the semis of CECAFA

The Uganda Crested Cranes on Thursday made it to the semifinals of the 2016 edition of the CECAFA women football championship following a group A 1-0 win over Burundi at the hosting FUFA technical grounds Njeru.

On colour striker Fazila Ikwaput scored the lone goal at the stroke of half time, after lashing on to a wise high ball from QPR Ladies star Jean Seninde and looped the advancing Burundi keeper.

The hosts finished on 6 points and second to group A leaders Kenya who had a 11-0 thumping of Zanzibar in the earlier game.

Uganda will play Tanzania the semis are slated for Sunday at 3.30pm.

After making it to the semis, www.fufa.co.ug brings you the reactions from some of the Uganda Crested Cranes players expressing their feeling towards the achievement.

Uganda Crested Cranes first choice goalkeeper Ruth Aturo with a routine catch

1-Ruth Aturo – The team’s first choice keeper who has kept two clean sheets after conceding 4 in the team’s first game against Kenya says she is grateful to the team and God.

I feel nice that we managed to make it to the semis. It was going to be a bad feeling as hosts, if we failed to get through.

I thank God, the coaches, the Federation and of all, the fans, who managed to come in such big numbers and supported us.

There is no better way to appreciate them. We shall try by all means to make them happy by making it to the finals

Hasfa Nassuna (shirt 10) with a drive

2-Hasfa Nasuna – She has four goals on the score sheet, and the second highest scorer.

Of course I feel very good for the achievement and as the hosting nation, we have progressed and I also have to give a big thank you to the fans who have given us continued support especially in the last game yesterday which motivated us more to the win.

3-Christine Wanyana – She is the team captain and center half.

Having made it to the semis is such a big motivation to the team and the players have a great feeling that they are superb now to go all the way. A big thanks to the federation and the organizers of this tournament – FUFA and CECAFA.

Fazila Ikwaput (shirt 5) congratulated by teammates after Uganda Crested Cranes 9-0 victory against Zanzibar on Thursday

4-Fazila Ikwaput – She is donning the national jersey for the first time and her debut has turned out such a flourishing one for the Divine Stars striker in Soroti.

Her swift movement, dribbling and eye on goal, has caught the eye of the hundreds of fans to whom she has become a darling.

She has scored three goals so far in the two games she has played and her smart slot yesterday propelled the team to the semis.

I feel proud to be part of this great team and I feel so good to have scored the goal that led the team to the semis. I thank the teammates and the entire fans. I promise to work more hard because I love my country

Laki Otandeka (shirt 9) after the post match press conference

5-Otandeka Laki is the American born Ugandan striker who plays in the US.

This is her debut on the national women football team.

I am feeling so great for the team and having made it through to the semis. I believe in my teammates and we shall work extra hard and make it to the finals

6-Joan Nakirya has played all the three group games on the left full back, she also believes they team can go all the way.

I am happy for the progress and looking forward to the team’s progress to the finals because we are now more motivated and the fans are that wonderful with that support

A special Image designed in full support of the Crested Cranes-Uganda National Women National team

September 17, 2016
General Kayihura motivates Uganda Crested Cranes ahead of semi-finals

The Inspector General of Police of the Uganda Police Force, General Edward Kalekezi ‘Kale’ Kayihura on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Uganda Crested Cranes players and officials.

General Kayihura met the players and officials at Jinja Speke Hotel where they had gone for a swimming session.

‘Thank you for representing our country with passion and energy. I wish you the best in the upcoming matches. We are very proud of you’ General Kayihura stated in a brief address.

The Crested Cranes had an off day on Friday following Thursday’s 1-0 victory against Burundi, their second victory at the CECAFA Women championship.

This followed the 9-0 humiliation of Zanzibar and the earlier 4-0 loss to the Kenya Harambee Starlets.

The Uganda Crested Cranes team will play Tanzania in Sunday’s second semi final show down after Kenya versus Ethiopia earlier clash at 2 p.m.

September 17, 2016
CECAFA Women 2016: Toss of a coin decides group B winner, semi-final line up completed

CECAFA Women Championship 2016:

Final Group B match: Tanzania 0-0 Ethiopia

Semi-finals (Sunday, 18th September 2016)

1st Match: Kenya Vs Ethiopia – 2 p.m

2nd Match: Uganda Vs Tanzania – 4 p.m

Tanzania and Ethiopia played to a goal-less draw in the final 2016 CECAFA women championship group stage match played on Friday at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru.

After normal time of the two countries, a coin toss was called to determine the match winner.

Match commissioner Agnes Mugena conducted the toss of the coin that was won by Tanzania.

Match commissioner Agnes Mugena during the coin toss

Antony Anastazia of Tanzania (right) attempts to dribble past Ethiopia’s Khamis Maimuna during the final group B match on Friday at Njeru

Shortly after the coin toss, either sides celebrated having reached thus far in the tournament with the semi-finals coming up this Sunday.

Tanzanian players celebrate after the coin toss

Ethiopian players applaud the fans after the toss of the coin

Tanzania will now face Uganda Crested Cranes in the second semi-final match of the day on Sunday.

Kenya Harambee Stars will face Ethiopia.

Monday will be the second rest day after Saturday before the third place and finals on Tuesday.

Tanzania XI that faced Ethiopia on Friday, 16th September 2016 on match day six of the CECAFA Women championship at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru

Team Line Ups:

Tanzania XI: Fatuma Omari (G.K), Sophia Mwasikili (Captain), Antony Anastazia, Issa Fatuma, Fadhila Hamad, Daniel Donisia, Hapy Henzron, Asha Rashid, Abdalla Stumai, Richard Wema, Khamis Maimuna

Subs: Julius Belina (G.K), Omari Mwanahamisi, Fatuma Hassan, Amina Ally, Sherida Boniface, Fatuma Mustafa, Anna Hebron, Abass Najat, Fatuma Bashiri

Head coach: Sebastian Nkoma

Ethiopia XI that started against Tanzania on Friday at Njeru

Ethiopia XI: Liya Shibru (G.K), Birtukan Gebrekirstos (Captain), Tikuancnhi Mengesha, Tsion Estifanos, Meskerem Kanko, Etsegenet Bizuneh, Hiwot Dengiso, Girma Berktawit, Shetaye Sisaya, Losa Abera, Erhima Zekega

Subs: Martha Bekele, Medina Awol, Emebet Addisu, Atekelte Ashenafi, Fikirte Birhanu. Serkadis Guta, Hasabe Muso

Head Coach: Mezeret Manni

Match referees with the two team captains prior to the kick off of the last group B match

Match Officials:

Center Referee: Suavis Iratunga (Burundi)

1^st Assistant: Docas Atuhaire (Uganda)

2^nd Assistant: Speciose Nyinawabari (Rwanda)

4^th Official: Salma Mukansanga (Rwanda)

Match Commissioner: Agnes Mugena (Uganda)

Referee Assessor: Catherine Adipo (Uganda)

Media Officer: Shafi’I Abokar (Somalia)

September 16, 2016