Uganda U17 Women’s National Football Team Coach Sheryl Botes Ulanda, has today trimmed the number to 25 players that will continue preparing for the CAF qualifier to the FIFA U17 Women World Cup tie against Namibia.
39 players had been summoned to start preparations and entered residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru on Wednesday.
“This morning we have released some players and we are left with 25 player as we continue with our preparations ahead of the games against Namibia.” She confirmed.
She also expressed satisfaction with the level of fitness and how the players have adhered to instructions.
“The players have really been positive since we arrived here. We are going to keep organizing video sessions so we explain to them what we want them so and they have it in their minds. They know what is at stake now and what we are up against and we are constantly giving them the confidence and belief that beating Namibia is attainable and that it is a collective effort not individual,” She said
Adding, “The girls look good and positive and am happy that even from the session that we had this so far, good questions from them came up and you could see they were eager to learn and understand what it is that we want them to do against Namibia.”
The games will be played next week with Namibia hosting the first leg on Thursday, January 16 while the return leg will come three days later. Both games will be played at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The winner on aggregate will face Kenya at the second qualification phase.
Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put has confirmed the provisional squad that will enter residential training starting Monday, 13th January 2025.
The develoment comes after three days of rigorous training as the team continues to shape ahead of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Thw squad has now been reduced to 28 players that will head to Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisasi to continue with preparations.
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will host CHAN 2024 between 1st -28th February 2025.
The draw event to determine the groups of CHAN 2024 will be conducted on Wednesday in Nairobi, Kenya
The draws to determine the groups will be conducted this Wednesday, 15th January in Nairobi, Kenya.
FUFA wishes to inform members of the sports media that the application process for accreditation to cover the Women’s U17 World Cup Qualifier match between Uganda and Namibia is now open via the FUFA Media Channel on www.fufa.co.ug/media/login/
You are kindly advised to log into your respective accounts to apply.
Application ends on Monday 13th January 2025 at 16:59Hrs.
If you don’t have the account yet, please follow the procedures for registration www.fufa.co.ug/media/signup before you apply.
The FUFA Competitions Department released the fixtures for the Round of 64 after the draw was held successfully. The matches start on Friday, 10th January 2025 and end on Saturday 25th January 2025.
Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put has summoned a provisional squad of 36 players ahead of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The coach revealed the squad on Wednesday in a press briefing held at FUFA Complex in Mengo, Kampala.
The squad comprises of four goalkeepers, twelve defenders, ten midfielders and ten forwards.
James Bogere, Brian Ijara and Isima Magala both fresh from guiding the Uganda U17 National Team to AFCON qualification have also made the cut on the squad for CHAN 2024.
The team will start training on Friday, 10th January with non-residential training up to Sunday before entering residential camp on Monday next week at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisasi.
The coach explained that the first three days will be about assessment before the group is reduced to 26.
“ We shall use Friday, Saturday and Sunday to access the players and then have 26 players thereafter. However, the players that will not remain in camp will continue following our programme to make sure they are ever on alert.” He said.
About the teenagers summoned, coach believes this is a good platform for them.
“I believe these players are capable and I wanted to give them an opportunity to train and compete at such a level. We have seen players at that age featuring for their senior team. Therefore, this is their chance to come and show their abilities.” Put added.
He also added that two international friendlies are lined up coming on the 17th January and a week later.
CHAN 2024 will take place between 1st -28th February 2025 in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Coach Sheryl Botes Ulanda has summoned a provisional squad of 39 players to the Uganda U17 Women’s National Team camp.
The team summoned will begin preparations on Wednesday, 8th January 2025 for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifier duel against Namibia. The residential camp will be held at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Namibia will host the first leg on 16th January 2025 while the return leg will take place on 19th January 2025. Both games will be played at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The winner on aggregate will face Kenya at the second qualification phase.
CAF has confirmed the official draw for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) will take place on 15th January 2025.
Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya has been selected as the venue where the draw function will take place.
CAF with guidance from the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) will confirm the time.
19 teams including hosts Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania plus Sudan, Guinea, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Central African Republic, Congo, DR Congo, Angola, Zambia, Madagascar and defending Champions Senegal will play at the 2024 CHAN edition.
The tournament will take place between 1st – 28th February 2025.
Renowned Ugandan musician Moses Ssali, popularly known as Bebe Cool is set to oversee the draw for the 51st Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 64 on Monday, January 6, 2025. The event will take place at Turaco Hall, Serena Hotel starting at 11:00 AM.
Bebe Cool, celebrated for his contributions to reggae and ragga music since his career’s inception in 1997 in Nairobi, Kenya has deep connections to Ugandan football. His father, Jaberi Bidandi Ssali, a former politician and football visionary, led KCC (now KCCA FC) to victory in their inaugural CECAFA Club Championship 47 years ago. Bidandi Ssali also guided Uganda Cranes to the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals as team manager, leaving an indelible mark on Ugandan football history.
Nicknamed “Big Size” in the music industry, Bebe Cool is no stranger to football. As an ambassador for the Uganda Cranes, his passion for the sport continues through his son, Alpha Thierry Ssali, a talented winger for Express FC and a former Uganda Hippos player.
The Stanbic Uganda Cup, one of the country’s most prestigious football tournaments, has consistently brought together teams from across the nation. The draw will determine matchups for the Round of 64 as clubs vie for glory in this historic competition.
Bebe Cool’s involvement underscores the blend of music and sports in promoting national unity and excitement.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim made his first address in the New Year today in a press briefing held at FUFA Complex Mengo, giving an update about the current state of football in the country.
The President summed up the activities that were conducted in the just concluded year and also shared the projections that FUFA intends to cover in 2025 including CHAN 2024.
He was flanked by FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA EXCO Member Sam Mpiima, FUFA Deputy CEO- Governance Sam Bakiika, FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza, FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe, National Teams Manager Patrick Ntege and FUFA Legal Manager Denis Lukambi among others.
Below are some of the excerpts from the FUFA President’s address.
Opening Remarks
“On behalf of FUFA, allow me to congratulate your upon completing 2024 and I wish you a prosperous 2025. In the past year, Football has lost its gallant servants such as Fred Kajoba, Esther Musoke and Baker Kasigwa among others. We continue to pray that they have eternal rest.”
“Football is a public good, it holds emotions of many of us. Therefore it is incumbent upon me to update the nation about the progress and state of the game in the country.”
About CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027
“For us we dream big. And indeed we had a dream that we shared with our neighbors Kenya and Tanzania to host AFCON 2027. Of course there were people doubting but we were able to convince the three heads of State and when we sold our idea to CAF, they were convinced. Already, there is work ongoing in as far as the sporting infrastructure and this will go a long way in improving the level of stadiums in the region. I call upon the Private sector to embrace this golden opportunity as East Africa hosts both CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 in areas of hospitality, events and opportunity.”
About Sporting Infrastructure
“As a country, we have had a challenge of sporting infrastructure for a long time. But I’m glad to inform you that there is commitment from the Government. Mandela National Stadium returned to use last year and the second phase of renovation will start soon. Hoima Stadium is already ahead of schedule and I’m confident the facility will be ready by December this year. Work at Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium has started, there has been some work at Kyambogo University Training Facility, Makerere University will commence soon. With CHAN coming, there is massive work going on at Wankulukuku, KISU and Kadiba Training Facilty. Additionally, Government has also funded projects like MTN-Omondi Stadium, Masaka Recreation Ground and money has been earmarked for Kakyeka Stadium.”
On Football Governance
“One of our biggest success stories as FUFA is our governance structure. We know that with proper governance, order is maintained and work can go on smoothly. Our Judicial Processes have been swift and transparent with 19 people banned in the last year for match manipulation. Statutory meetings such as the FUFA AGM and Executive Meetings have been held.”
About administration at FUFA
“FUFA has a very credible secretariat headed by CEO Edgar Watson who run the game day to day. In the last year, our staff has grown to meet the ever increasing demands of the game.”
About Football Development
“ FUFA is run on three key pillars namely Football Governance, Football the Sport and Football Business. In the past, we have had great success in Governance and Business but we have now set our sights on prioritizing the sport itself. In Football Development, we are organizing capacity building courses to have more people involved in the game in areas like coaching, refereeing and administrators. The modern game requires the use of science and technology and FUFA is recruiting full time staff in that area to cater for things like nutrition, data analysis and use of sports equipment.”
“ We launched the FUFA Technical Masterplan which is a Programme that will run for seven years. In this, we are seeking to address four key areas namely; Mass Football, Elite Football, Professional Football and Life after Football. We are working on a football curriculum that will be taught in our regional football centres of excellence and this will in the long run formulate a national football philosophy. FUFA has instituted a Talent-Identification framework with scouts trained and these have an online platform where they feed information about any young talent identified.”
About FUFA Football Competitions
“We continue to organize and superintend over our competitions. However, we still face a challenge of insufficient funding especially with the Uganda Premier League. We believe our clubs need to grow into better brands that can attract sponsors because that is the only way their commercial value can grow. We are glad to report that the FUFA Women Leagues (Super and Elite) got a sponsor in Finance Trust Bank and that shows the progress we are making in as far as women’s football is concerned.”
On National Teams
“The National Football Teams that we manage had a total of 41 international matches in 2024 with Uganda Cranes playing 13. We were able to qualify for AFCON 2025 and most recently 2025 U17 AFCON. The Uganda Hippos earned silver at the African Games in Ghana while the Queen Cranes got bronze at the same event. We believe our National Teams will have even more engagements this year considering the number of tournaments and qualifiers lined up.”
About Football Business
“FUFA currently operates on a 41.1Billion budget thanks to the Government of Uganda that provides 17 Billion specifically meant for National Teams. From our Sponsors and Media Rights were are able to raise 10 Billion while the rest of the money comes from CAF, FIFA, merchandising etc.”
About the FUFA reserveFund
“ Whereas we are aware that running of Football demands huge sums of money but we equally have to care about the future. As the FUFA Executive, we agreed to open a FUFA reserve account in 2019 and this has since grown to about 400M shillings. We hope to keep saving more money so that in case of eventualities, the game is able to survive.”
About the FUFA SACCO
“We started a FUFA SACCO a few years ago in order to help our staff to save but also help them in making further investments. As of today, our SACCO has grown to a tune of 1.5 Billion shillings.”
About the internal controls
“FUFA has been able to install a SunSystem that has hugely helped us on how we manage and control our finances. Mr. Sam Bakiika who is the Deputy CEO- Governance has a background of an auditor, working with credible institutions like the PricewaterhouseCoopers.”
About the FUFA Communications Tool.
“FUFA has been able to set up both FUFA Tv and FUFA Radio to continue promoting the game. In addition, we have a credible Communications Department that is able to produce content. For those that attended the FUFA AGM at Maya Nature Resort saw the content that was produced including a book that covers the history of FUFA in the past 100 years.”
About the FUFA Marketing arm
“In order to widen our income pool, FUFA has created unique products through the FUFA Sportware Limited Company named Janzi. So far, we are produced Zakayo Balls, Referees attire and Uganda Cranes Jerseys. We hope to even get bigger in 2025. I want to warn those that are engaging in making counterfeits of these products, the law will catch up with you.”
About Pre-determination of match results
“This is a strong warning to those that are involved in the business of match fixing. One of the cardinal missions of FUFA is to protect the game and that we shall do. Last year, we banned 19 people and I want to assure you that we have the capacity to investigate and identify those involved. Please Report, Resist and Reject such vices. “
“Finally, I want to thank everyone who has made a contribution to the growth and development of football in Uganda. The President of the Republic of Uganda H. E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Leadership of Parliament and Honorable Members, Sponsors, the FUFA Secretariat, Clubs, Referees, Club Administrators, Players and fans among others.”
Uganda secured a late win over Burundi as the two teams faced off on Sunday at Hamz Stadium in the return leg of the 2024 African Nations Champions (CHAN) Qualifiers.
Substitute Hakim Kiwanuka scored the lone goal of the game at the death of the clock with his deflected strike heading goal-way.
The win meant Uganda secured victories against Burundi both home and away. It should be noted that the Cranes won the reverse fixture with ab identical score thanks to Isaac Ogwang’s goal.
In today’s game, coach Paul Put rang changes from the team that had started three days ago.
Gideon Odong started at left back in place of Derrick Ndahiro. Joel Sserunjogi and Milton Karisa replaced Paul Mbowa and Shafik Nana Kwikiriza respectively.
The opening quarter was a bit sloppy from either side, and the first realistic opportunity arrived in the 17th minute when Karisa’s cross met Jude Ssemugabi but his headed effort sailed wide.
Three minutes later, goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa was quick to rush off his goal line to deny a Burundi player.
At the start of the second half, coach Put brought on Patrick Jonah Kakande in place of injured Jude Ssemugabi.
His arrival came with improvement for Uganda Cranes with the winger wrecking havoc.
Kakande had an attempt at goal in the 49th minute but the goalkeeper was well stationed to save.
Okello jumped high in the 52nd minute but his headed effort went wide.
Ten minutes later, Isaac Ogwang had a glorious opportunity when he went through on goal but his effort was saved.
Coach Put made further changes, bringing on Kiwanuka and Ivan Ahimbisibwe for Allan Okello and Ogwang respectively.
In the first minute of the four added time, Kiwanuka’s rebound reflected off Burundi defender Olivier Dushime and went to the back of the net.
The two games are part of Uganda’s preparations for the up coming 2024 CHAN tournament that will be co-hosted by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya.
The Uganda Cranes CHAN team held their final preparations on Saturday morning at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, ahead of the return leg match against Burundi in the CHAN 2024 Qualifiers.
All 26 summoned players are in excellent shape and trained collectively under the close supervision of the technical team, attentively following instructions and tactics for the anticipated match.
Head Coach Paul Put stated that they are focused on building a strong CHAN team, emphasising minimal changes to the squad to foster cohesion and strong partnerships among the players.
‘We are analysing the CHAN team, and after assessing the first game, we identified areas that need improvement to ensure better performance moving forward. If we make too many changes, we may lose the opportunity to gauge the team’s true competitiveness. While some adjustments will be made, we aim to retain the core of the team to build their confidence and maintain continuity.’ said Coach Put before calling upon Ugandans.
‘Ugandans have always been incredible supporters of the Cranes, and I believe they will show the same enthusiasm this time against Burundi. These are their boys, and they need their unwavering support.’
He added, ‘Thank you, Ugandans, for the tremendous support that contributed to the team’s success. You created a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere, and we look forward to experiencing the same energy come 2025.’
The roar of the crowd was deafening but for him, it was a melody. Scoring on his national debut felt like a surgeon’s first life saved, a mix of relief, pride and pure adrenaline. Every practice, every doubt, every late night dream had led to this moment. Now, he stood victorious, a striker whose target was finally met.
This introduction perfectly encapsulates Isaac Ogwang’s moment of glory as he scored on his Uganda Cranes debut during the CHAN 2024 Qualifiers first leg match against Burundi at Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo.
Though Ogwang had previously featured for the Cranes on regional tours, the pacy and aggressive forward had never had the opportunity to play for the senior Cranes team. However, his hard work and determination finally paid off.
Speaking to www.fufa.co.ug, the Police FC striker shared his reaction to the milestone:
‘Being summoned to the national team is a reward for hard work and scoring on my debut is an incredible feeling. It’s every footballer’s dream to wear the national colours and for me, it’s a dream come true.
This is just the beginning of the journey, which calls for even more hard work to remain part of the team. Hosting CHAN is a great opportunity for all players and every Ugandan. Who wouldn’t want to be part of history?’
Ogwang played for KJT FC, SpartaFC, SC Villa, Arua Hill & now featuring for Police FC.
The Uganda Cubs emerged winners of the CECAFA Zone U17 AFCON Qualifiers after defeating Tanzania 2-1 in a final at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo on Friday, December 27th, 2024.
Two second-half goals from Arafat Nkoola and James Bogere were enough to see off Tanzania who scored first through Abel Josiah Samson in the first half.
The Uganda U17 Boys National Team is set to clash with Tanzania in the CECAFA U17 Championship final following their impressive 4-1 victory over Somalia in the semifinal. The much-anticipated final will take place tomorrow 27th December 2024, 3:30pm, at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo, with both teams aiming to claim the regional title and solidify their dominance ahead of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Coach Brian Ssenyondo’s tactical approach was evident as the team dominated the previous games, capitalizing on their opportunities and maintaining composure under pressure scoring 10 goals in 3 games including a stunning 4-1 victory over Somalia in the semifinal. This performance not only secured Uganda’s place in the final but also guaranteed their qualification for the U17 AFCON, set to take place in Morocco from March 30 to April 19, 2025.
On the other hand, Tanzania delivered an equally commanding performance in their semifinal, defeating South Sudan 4-0.
Speaking ahead of the final, Ssenyondo expressed his confidence in the team: “We’ve already achieved part of our dream of qualifying for AFCON, so we have no much pressure. Tanzania is a tough opponent, but we are prepared to give our best and fight for the title.”
Both teams have already secured qualification for the U17 AFCON, but the CECAFA title remains a prestigious honour. For Uganda, winning the championship would serve as a statement of intent ahead of the continental competition, regaining it from Somalia who lifted it in the previous edition, further solidifying their (Uganda Cubs) position as a powerhouse in regional youth football.
Uganda will rely on a number of players including goal poacher James Bogere who has so far netted 2 hatricks plus the leadership of captain Richard Okello, who has been instrumental throughout the tournament, despite nursing a minor injury in the last group stage match but managed to play semifinal too.
The Cubs had their last training earlier today at MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo in preparation to take on Tanzania, hoping for a historic victory that would inspire the next generation of Ugandan footballers.
Uganda Cranes nicked a hard-fought 1-0 win over Burundi in the first leg of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) Qualifier game played at Hamz Stadium Nakibubo on Thursday.
The closely contested game saw Uganda Cranes edge the game to take advantage in the two-legged affair.
Striker Isaac Ogwang scored the lone goal of the game and this eventually settled the contest.
The decisive moment arrived in the 35th minute with Ogwang firing a low drive into the bottom right corner.
Uganda started the better side and got several opportunities at goal but failed to find the much needed early lead.
Jude Ssemugabi had a chance in the 11th minute to lobe the ball over the onrushing Burundi goalkeeper but his effort sailed wide.
Five minutes later, Ssemugabi had a glorious chance, rounding off the goalkeeper but his dinking effort was saved off the line by Olivier Dushime.
Shafik Nana Kwikiriza too had an opportunity in the 23rd minute but he headed just above the goal area.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 35th minute with Ogwang receiving the ball from a misplaced pass by Burundi midfielder Gloire Tambwe before firing home.
Burundi piled pressure after recess and got the better chances but Uganda defended resiliently to claim victory.
The two teams will face off again on Sunday at the same venue.
It should be noted that Uganda alongside Tanzania and Kenya already qualified as hosts but Burundi on the other hand are seeking to progress to the final qualification round.
The Uganda Cranes CHAN team conducted their final training session at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo ahead of the CHAN Qualifiers match against Burundi.
The team of twenty six players, summoned by Coach Paul Put who are camping at Nob View Hotel, Ntinda are all in good shape and participated in the final training session on Wednesday evening.
The coach expressed his excitement about the players’ quick adaptation within a short period and indicated the team’s readiness for the match.
‘We’ve worked very hard in a short period of time to prepare the team. We’ve brought in many new players, but I’m glad they’ve been adaptive and ready. The players are motivated and focused, eagerly waiting for the match.’ Said Coach Put
Player Allan Okello emphasized the importance of the match to both the players and the fans, noting that it will motivate them to deliver positive results.
‘We are well prepared, and everyone is fit to play. With the teamwork and unity within the team, we will do our best to achieve good results.Thanks to the guidance of our coaches, we have come to understand each other better, which has been excellent preparation for the final tournament of CHAN 2025. We will not take the game lightly; our focus is to win and bring joy to our fans.’ Noted Okello.
Total Energies CHAN 2025 Qualifiers Thursday, 26.12.2024 Burundi vs Uganda Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo 6 PM Sunday, 29.12.2024 Uganda vs Burundi 6 PM
The Uganda Cranes CHAN team held their final non-residential training session on Tuesday evening at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.
Players will report to Nob View Hotel on Wednesday, 25th December 2025 for a residential camp.
Forward Ivan Ahimbisibwe who was summoned to the team shared his thoughts and future expectations with www.fufa.co.ug.
‘It’s been a long awaited opportunity and there are smiles all around as we focus on the tasks ahead. We’re playing Burundi and we are well-prepared. By following the instructions from the coaches and working as a team, we are confident of achieving the best results.
The competition for positions is tough because everyone wants to impress the coach. As an individual, I’m doing my best to be considered for the final squad. As a team, everyone is giving their all to ensure we achieve the best results.’ Said Ahimbisibwe
He added ‘Uganda hosting CHAN is a significant opportunity for the country and for individual players. It provides a continental platform that is followed by many people around the world.’
The Grade Four scout course coming under the FUFA Technical Master plan with support of FIFA Talent Development has been completed in West Nile Region at Springs Nursery and Primary School Arua.
A total of 42 candidates representing 100% of West Nile Districts have been trained to conform to FUFA Presidents affirmed commitment of FUFA to extend at least one scout in every district.
The course has been conducted by Petros Koukouras assisted by Jerome Katende from FUFA Football Development Department.
FUFA West Nile Region Chairman Fredrick Isaac Adde opened the course on 22nd December while FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga officiated at the closing ceremony today evening awarding certificates to the 39 male and 3 female participants in the course.
“This G4 West Nile Pioneer Scouts training will go a long way in future contribution to talent identification for the benefits of individual players, clubs, our region and country. Thank you, our trainers, Administrator, and big thanks to FUFA we will forever remain grateful for this opportunity and many more to come. This is a right step in shaping the future of football in our country” said Ms. Amina Atako, one of the graduates.
Ariga while officiating at closing ceremony thanked FUFA President for extending such football development projects in West Nile Region.
He further highlighted that in absence of these scouts, most of the players from West Nile Region have been going to neighbouring countries, he appealed to the trained scouts to go back and look for talented players both boys and girls.
