Uganda U20 Men’s National Team wrapped up group business at the ongoing TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Tanzania with a draw against South Sudan on Friday.
In the game played at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Uganda led 2-0 at halftime but South Sudan rallied back to force a 2-2 draw.
Uganda had already secured a spot in the semifinals but needed a draw to confirm the first place in Group B.
Coach Matia Lule made four changes from the team that had defeated Burundi two days ago with Charles Batiibwe, Sowedi Lwenda, John Innocent Kisolo and Bashir Mansur all starting.
John Paul Dembe who has enjoyed brilliant performance at the tournament kept his scoring spree running, bagging a brace in the first half.
South Sudan pulled one back before the break with Emmanuel Sokwa tapping home from close range.
They returned recharged after recess, scoring the equalizer towards the end of the game through Valentino.
The result means Uganda qualify to the semifinals as group Leaders on 7 points, one ahead of Burundi who finished second.
Uganda Starting XI Abdu Magada, Charles Batiibwe, Swabiri Mpasa, Majub Toto, Lwenda Sowedi, John Innocent Kisoro, Figo Rayn Kizito, Bashir Mansur, John Paul Dembe, Allan Oyirwoth, Richard Okello
Uganda Men’s National Football Team has expressed readiness ahead of their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier match against South Sudan slated for Friday, 11th October 2024 at Mandela National Stadium.
The Uganda Cranes who have had rigorous training since Monday are optimistic of a successful expedition on Friday against Neighbours South Sudan.
Head Coach Paul Put believes his troops are in good shape and ready for the task before them.
“I believe we are ready and prepared to face South Sudan. Everyone is in perfect condition and all of us are looking at winning this game,” he said before adding.
“It will not be an easy game but I believe with the support of our fans at home, we will be able to put up a good performance and be able to win.”
Captain Khalid Aucho has warned his teammates about complacency and asserted it is never easy in such games.
“Playing against neighbours is never easy and we do not expect South Sudan to roll a carpet for us. As players, we are cautious about being complacent and we will give in our best to make sure that victory is ours.”
Uganda has four points from the first two games and will be seeking to remain in the right path of qualification by winning at home against South Sudan.
The two countries will then face off on Tuesday next week at Juba Stadium for the return leg.
Janzi is the official and registered trademark of FUFA’s sportsware.
Warning: Counterfeit Merchandise
FUFA a registered trademark has received reports of unauthorized individuals and companies importing, manufacturing, distributing, and selling counterfeit Uganda Cranes merchandise. This violates national laws and infringes on FUFA’s intellectual property rights.
FUFA has not authorized any entity or individual to sell Uganda Cranes merchandise on its behalf. Only the official FUFA merchandise shop in Mengo is authorized to sell genuine Uganda Cranes merchandise.
Consequences:
• Individuals found importing, manufacturing, distributing, producing, selling or for sale, displaying, wearing, or aiding in the sale of counterfeit merchandise or any branded Uganda Cranes items without authorization of FUFA, will be held accountable.
FUFA collaborates with authorities to combat intellectual property infringement and protect its rights. Support the legitimate Uganda Cranes brand by purchasing merchandise only from the authorized outlet.
Report counterfeit merchandise to FUFA or relevant authorities.
In a letter addressed to the Federation, Confederation of African Football (CAF), through its General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba and Director of Member Associations Sarah Mukuna, commended the enduring passion, dedication, and commitment the association has shown towards the beautiful game over the past century.
It reads:
We are writing to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) on the remarkable occasion of your 100th anniversary. This significant milestone is a testament to the enduring passion, dedication, and commitment that the association has demonstrated towards the beautiful game over the past century.
For a hundred years, FUFA has played a pivotal role in promoting and nurturing football talent across the nation. Your efforts have not only elevated the sport within Uganda but have also brought the nation together in celebration of shared victories and cherished memories.
As we reflect on the rich history of Ugandan football, we recognize the countless players, coaches, and officials who have contributed to the growth and success of our sport. Their hard work and determination have paved the way for future generations, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams on the pitch.
As you celebrate this centenary, may you continue to inspire and develop football in Uganda, fostering a spirit of unity and sportsmanship. Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and unforgettable moments in Ugandan football.
Congratulations once again on achieving this remarkable milestone.
FUFA has been cleared by CAF to use a special badge on the Uganda Cranes match day shirts as celebrations to mark hundred years of the local football governing body continue.
FUFA made a formal request to the continental body to use the logo that was unveiled by the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim during the 100th Ordinary General Assembly on 4th October 2024 at Maya Nature Resort in Wakiso.
The logo will be placed on the front part of the shirts just above the players’ numbers. It will be between the two logos of FUFA and the kit manufactures Janzi.
According to FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, the players will wear these special edition jerseys for the entire ongoing qualification campaign of the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 starting with the match against South Sudan on Friday 11th October 2024.
Uganda U20 Men’s Team made their intentions at the ongoing AFCON U20 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers clear, after brushing aside Ethiopia on Monday.
The Uganda Hippos kicked off their title defence in style, defeating Ethiopia 3-0 at the Azam Complex, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Midfielder Godfrey Sekibengo opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a stunning volley following a poor clearance from an Ethiopian defender.
Sekibengo’s strike from the edge of the box went straight into the far-right bottom corner giving Uganda an early lead. Ethiopia briefly thought they had equalized two minutes later but their goal was ruled out for offside.
The Hippos doubled their advantage just before halftime when Swabiri Mpasa volleyed home almost in similar fashion like Sekibengo from Allan Oyirwoth’s header, giving Uganda a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break.
Despite Ethiopia’s efforts, Uganda’s defense led by goalkeeper Abdu Magada and skipper Toto Majub remained resolute with the former making a crucial save after a defensive mix-up to keep the two-goal cushion intact.
In the second half, substitute John Innocent Kisolo sealed the win in the 90th minute with a powerful, deflected long-range strike that left the Ethiopian goalkeeper stranded.
Uganda made four substitutions during the game with Abubakali Walusimbi, Johnson Kabagambe, Kisolo and Denis Kisiriko all coming on to help maintain control.
Head coach Mathias Lule expressed satisfaction with the victory though he admitted the team could have performed better.
“I am delighted that we got off to a good start, winning 3-0 but I believe we can improve on how we play and control certain situations.” He said.
Uganda now shifts focus to their next game against Burundi on Wednesday , who also started with a win, defeating South Sudan 1-0 earlier in the day.
With two matches left in the group stage, the Hippos are eyeing a semi-final berth. It should be noted that only the finalists secure the two qualification slots to the U20 AFCON final tournament.
Rines SS vs Olila High School (To be determined later)
Matchday Two of the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League witnessed teams post victories on the road.
Kawempe Muslim remain the only perfect team in the League after posting yet another comprehensive victory.
The Valley Warriors brushed aside Wakiso Hill at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Sunday with a 3-0 win.
The goals came from Agnes Nabukenya, Sumaya Nabbuto and Hadijjah Nandago.
The result meant Kawempe Muslim took an early lead at the top of the table with six points from two games.
Kampala Queens managed to snatch a hard fought 1-0 win over She Corporate FC on Saturday thanks to Shamirah Nalugya’s well taken corner kick that went straight to the back of the net.
In the other games played over the weekend, Lady Doves stunned Amus College at their own backyard, winning 3-1.
Doreen Aujat scored for Amus College but the visitors had Resty Kobusobozi, Dorcus Kwikiriza and Cecilia Apiding.
She Maroons pilled more misery on Uganda Martyrs condemning them to a second successive loss. The Prison Sentries won 2-0 with goals coming from Norah Alupo and Rachael Nassimbwa.
Jemimah Twesigye was the heroine for Makerere University as they picked a 1-0 win over FC Tooro Queens at Buhinga Stadium.
The game between Rines SS WFC and Olila High School was not played to completion and now pending a decision from the FUFA Competitions Department.
The Uganda Hippos, defending Champions of the U20 TotalEnergies AFCON Zonal Qualifiers kick off their title defence this evening with a clash against Ethiopia in Group B.
The match will take place at the Azam Complex at 1800hrs and the Hippos will be eager to start their campaign with victory.
Head coach Mathias Lule is optimistic about his side’s chances, expressing confidence in the team’s preparation. With no injury concerns in the squad, Lule has called upon Ugandans to rally behind the team as they embark on their quest to retain the regional title.
“We are ready for this tournament and the boys are in perfect shape to face any team. Our preparations have been perfect and we just call upon Ugandans to rally behind us in this journey.” He said.
Skipper Toto Majub echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the positive results the team hopes to achieve.
“We have had excellent training from the technical team, both here and back home in our residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, what is left is for us players to hit the pitch and deliver,” he remarked.
In the other Group B fixture, South Sudan will face Burundi earlier in the day at the KMC Stadium.
The top two teams from the group stage will qualify for the tournament semifinals with both finalists securing a spot in the U20 AFCON final tournament.
The hallmark of any institution is the ability to stay relevant and functional for a long time. FUFA is proud to have stood the test of time and remain a commendable institution.
On Friday at 100th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly held at Maya Nature Resort in Wakiso, Buganda Region , the celebrations to mark 100 years of FUFA’s existence officially kicked off.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim unveiled the Centenary logo and revealed that the celebrations will go on for the next one year.
“We are proud that FUFA marks 100 years. It is a great milestone that each one of us must be happy about. This is just the beginning of celebrations and we will carry on with a series of events for the next one year,” he said.
Solomon Mudega, the FIFA Head of Development Programmes-Africa represented FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the Assembly and carried his message.
“FIFA President Gianni Infantino told me to pass on his congratulatory message and he is very pleased with the strides you are making in developing and promoting the game of football.” He stated.
David Ndayisenga, the Manager of FIFA’s Regional Development Office, CECAFA Executive Director Auka Gecheo, Assistant General Secretary Administration at National Council of Sports Joseph Olinga and Sammy Odong the Assistant Commissioner Physical Education in the Ministry of Education and Sports were all present.
Like it is the norm at FUFA Ordinary General Assemblies, there was a moment of silence in memory of the football fallen soldiers who passed on in the last twelve months.
Additionally, FUFA President honoured and rewarded four individuals from Buganda Region for their contribution towards football. These included former Uganda Cranes Goalkeeper Jamil Kasirye, retired referees Edrisa Kiwanuka and Nsaali Ssemakula and Lugazi FC Chairman Abdul Kawuulu Mwanje.
Other businesses of the Assembly included admission of newly promoted Lugazi FC, Police FC and Mbale Heroes FC as members of FUFA.
A proposed budget of 41.114 Billion Shillings was passed for the next financial year.
With 2025 being an election year at FUFA, the Electoral Committte that will steer the process was also named.
Mathias Bwire is retained as the Chairman of the FUFA Electoral Committee while Ritah Aliguma,Denis Ojwe and Richard Mpaka Rwemulika are members.
Joram Katende has been replaced by Salim Katumba withMoses Odong, Oscar Ngoobi and Richard Barigye serving as standby substitutes.
In the same wavelength, Yusuf Awuye was retained as the Chairperson of the FUFA Electoral Appeals Committee with Stanley Kinene and Favour Anguko serving as members.
The standby substitutes are Canon Edward Nsamba and Mike Okwi.
The day ended with a football game between FUFA President XI and the Parliamentary Football Team.
Uganda U20 national team (Hippos) head coach Mathias Lule has named his final 20-man squad for the upcoming AFCON U20 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers in Tanzania set to take place from October 6th to 20th 2024.
The team features 3 goalkeepers, 6 defenders, 6 midfielders, and 5 forwards with defender Toto Majub named as captain.
Uganda, the Defending Champions are drawn in Group B alongside Ethiopia, Burundi, and South Sudan.
The Hippos will begin their title defence with a match against Ethiopia on Monday, October 7th, at the Azam Complex, kick-off at 18:00 EAT.
Coach Lule is confident that the team will maintain Uganda’s strong record in youth football and secure a spot at the 2025 AFCON U20 tournament.
The team is expected to fly out this evening aboard Uganda Airlines.
Uganda Hippos Final Squad for AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers:
Magada Abdu – URA FC (Goalkeeper) Nsubuga Chris Ronald – Kataka FC (Goalkeeper) Mugerwa Denis – Vipers SC JT (Goalkeeper)
Namaisi Steven – Kataka FC (Defender) Batibwe Charles Okello – Gaddafi FC (Defender) Mpasa Swabiru – BUL FC (Defender) Toto Majub Brian – Amus College School (Defender/Captain) Lwenda Sowedi – BUL FC (Defender) Anguti Amagu Louis – Coastal Union FC (Defender)
Kizito Rayan Figo – Police FC Kisolo Innocent – URA FC/ Bukedea Comprehensive SS (Midfielder) Ssekibengo Godfrey –URA FC/ Bukedea Comprehensive SS (Midfielder) Ssekajugo Elvis – Express FC/ Bukedea Comprehensive SS (Midfielder) Walusimbi Abubakar – Vipers SC (Midfielder) Oyirwoth Allan – Brooke House College and Academy (Midfielder)
Okello Richard – BUL FC Junior Team (Forward) Bashir Mansur – Amus College School (Forward) Kabagambe Johnson – URA FC (Forward) Kisiriko Denis – URA FC (Forward) Ddembe John Paul – BK Hacken, Sweden(Forward)
Team Officials
Head of Delegation: Samuel Mpiima Head Coach: Matia Lule Assistant Coach: Simeon Massa Goalkeeping Coach: Stephen Billy Kiggundu Trainer: Noah Kasule Team Manager/Safeguarding Officer: Bashir Mutyaba Team Doctor: Michael Gumisiriza Physiotherapist: Rashid Kebba Kit Manager: Frank Bumpenje Media Officer: Ronald Lusulire
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has handed over Zakayo balls to the CEOs of clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League at an event held at the federation’s premises, presided over by the 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi.
In her address, the FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, thanked the Uganda Premier League Secretariat for enforcing the regulations regarding the official matchday ball. She also expressed gratitude to the clubs for adhering to the regulation.
Today, we are further implementing sections of the FUFA Technical Masterplan for the next five years, which we launched at the Imperial Royale Hotel, to ensure that an official ball is used in the country. This section concerns the Premier League, where we established a policy that the matchday ball must be the Zakayo ball. I thank the Uganda Premier League Secretariat and the teams in the first division for ensuring this regulation is followed. Today, I am pleased to announce, on behalf of the federation, that there is an ample supply of these balls in FUFA’s stores. Each club has been allocated 20 balls.
Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, FUFA 3rd Vice President
Ten clubs had representatives present at the event. They included Wakiso Giants FC’s Kamoga Sula, Vipers SC’s Muwanga Kenneth (Media Manager), Police FC’s Dr. Hakim Aziz, Express FC Miiro Ashraf, URA FC’s Munaaba Allan, KCCA FC’s Nagenda Joshua (Admin), SC Villa’s Mutajazi Sulaiman (Deputy CEO), Lugazi FC’s Sulait Abdul Swamadu, NEC FC’s Okorotum Jonathan, and UPDF FC’s Mambo Walter.
Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put has summoned a squad of 27 players ahead of the TotalEnergies double header against South Sudan in the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
It should be noted that Uganda will face South Sudan in a double header with the first leg slated for 11th October at Mandela National Stadium while the return leg in Juba will take place on 15th October 2025.
The team will enter residential camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel on 6th October 2024.
Uganda has four points from the opening two games having drawn 2-2 against South Africa and a 2-0 win at home against Congo.
Uganda Cranes Squad
Goalkeepers Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago, Venda FC, South Africa)
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC began their title defence on a high note after registering a comprehensive win over Rines SS on matchday one of the 2024/25 Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League.
The Valley Warriors routed Rines, 3-0 thanks to a hat trick from last season’s MVP Agnes Nabukenya.
The result ensured Kawempe laid down a marker right from the start and will be one of the favorites to win the title this season.
In the other games played on Matchday one, new comers Amus College edged Olila High School 1-0 in the Teso derby courtesy of Shafiga Tamisi’s goal.
Another new comer in She Corporate FC earned a hard fought 1-0 win over Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC with the solitary goal coming from Whisper Alomo.
Elsewhere, Judith Mawuwa scored a stoppage time free kick to help Wakiso Hill salavage a point against Kampala Queens who had taken the lead through new signing Shamusa Najjuma.
The Kitara derby between FC Tooro Queens and Lady Doves FC ended in a one all draw with Resty Kobusobozi scoring for Lady Doves while Imelda Kesimiire got the goal for Tooro Queens.
The encounter between Makerere University and She Maroons ended in a barren stalemate.
The field of Sports Medicine is an important part of modern day football and is a requirement in Club Licensing. Under the FUFA PRO-FOOTBALL pillar of the FUFA Technical Master Plan, emphasis has been put on Sports Medicine in order for us to improve player health which leads to optimum player performance.
It is upon this background that the FUFA Head of Football Medical Services, also Executive Committee Member, Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, together with the Football Development Department, have initiated a FUFA PLAYERS INJURIES SURVEILLANCE PROJECT that will cover primarily 1st Divisions Men and Women as well as 2nd Division Men and Stanbic Uganda Cup. Matches and training injuries data shall be required.
The requirement to fill and submit Injury surveillance has been incorporated in FUFA Competitions Rules Article 38(5) as below;
The medical personnel shall be required to file player medical related information to FUFA specifically the injury surveillance data on specific forms provided by FUFA. Failure to submit medical information as required may lead to sanctions on the club and the registered medical person in accordance with FUFA Ethics Code
THE PROJECT
An online platform has been designed and is ready for usage by clubs’ Heads of Medical Services to fill and submit required data online. To support you with this regulatory compliance, a one Day Zoom Session on Injury Surveillance Project and use of the online platform is being organized with a requirement of Club’s head of Medical Services as follows.
Venue: Online Date: Monday 30th September 2024 Time: 02:00pm
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has launched the Talent ID Framework, which focuses on four objectives: Scouts education and development Pathway, reaching every Talent from Everywhere, Connection to Talent Development pathways and ICT Integration in scouting process.
The event, which took place at the FUFA Complex, was graced by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Executive Committee Member in charge of Football Development Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, Football Development Director Ali Mwebe, Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, among others.
FUFA TID Framework is part of integration of FIFA Talent Development Schemes (TDS) the specific high performance football development program aimed at “increasing global competitiveness” that followed the global football talent eco-system analysis conducted by FIFA on member associations in 2020
The FIFA TDS sets a high-performance youth football development environment for talented young boys and girls with a theme of “giving every talent a chance”. FIFA through the High-Performance Unit of the Global Football Development Department under Arsene Wenger the FIFA Chief of Global Football Development is very close to us with technical support in terms of Education, technical consultancy and expertise as well as financial support in coming up with these high-performance football development projects like the TID framework launched today.
Ali Mwebe, Football Development Director
While addressing the audience, the FUFA CEO informed attendees that new staff have been recruited to manage development—Petros Koukouras, Technical Development Staff, and Brian Umony, Pro-Football Development Manager.
"Today is a very important day that we launch and comply with what FIFA expects of us, the Talent ID Framework. At the secretariat, we have new additions—Petros Koukouras, Technical Development Staff and Brian Umony, Pro-Football Development Manager" — Edgar Watson, FUFA CEO pic.twitter.com/oYt50HofpU
Ronnie Kalema, the Executive Committee Member in charge of Football Development, reiterated the FUFA President’s 2021-2025 manifesto, stating that he had a document to implement concerning Football on the Pitch. He noted that strides are being made, including capacity-building activities, and now another aspect of it is ready for the country.
"Today we are here to tell the Country that we can identify that young player." — Ronnie Kalema, FUFA Executive Committee Member pic.twitter.com/blbAiCE41Q
The FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, emphasised the importance of mass football for effective talent identification.
We can only identify talent when there is mass football. When someone is 10 years old, FUFA must have a system in place to identify and develop them.
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA President
In addition, he highlighted that the Federation has plans to work with players nearing the end of their careers, as well as those who have retired, to prepare them for new opportunities that are emerging.
We want to work with players about to finish and those that have finished to prepare them for the positions that are coming up.
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA President
The FUFA Technical Master Plan is the foundation to help develop and improve the quality of football on the field with a specific mission to;
1. Install mass football for all and create a high-performance culture for elite performers.
2. Install a universal playing style for Uganda National Teams and clubs, producing entertaining and purposeful football.
3. Installing Ugandan football players in the world’s topmost leagues.
FUFA wishes to inform you that the application process for accreditation to cover the 100th Ordinary General Assembly on 4th October 2024 and the AFCON Qualifier 2025 match between Uganda and South Sudan on Friday 11th October 2024 is open via the FUFA Media Channel.
Media members are advised to log into their respective accounts to apply.
Application for the 100th Ordinary General Assembly closes on 29th September 2024 and for the AFCON Qualifier 2025 match between Uganda and South Sudan closes on 5th October 2024.
The Competitions Department has released fixtures for the 2024/2025 FUFA Big League Season
Matchday 1 – Sunday 6th October 2024, 4:00 PM
Blacks Power FC vs Arua Hill SC Kataka FC vs Busoga United FC Kaaro Karungi FC vs Gaddafi FC Kigezi Home Boyz FC vs Ntugasaze FC Kiyinda Boys FC vs MYDA FC Onduparaka FC vs Paidha Black Angels SC
In a groundbreaking move for Ugandan football, 40 participants were awarded certificates after completing the first-ever Players’ Performance Tracking and Monitoring Course in the country.
The two-day course, which ran from Tuesday, September 17, to Wednesday, September 18, 2024, took place at MultiTech Business School in Kampala. This initiative represents FUFA’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize the monitoring, evaluation, and overall management of player performance in Uganda’s top-tier football leagues.
The course was facilitated by South African expert Ashley De Beer, a highly regarded specialist in sports technology, who led participants through the ins and outs of utilizing modern tools to track and analyze player performance. Attendees included representatives from the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League, the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and FUFA staff members.
This training was the first of its kind to be offered in Uganda, and it marks a significant milestone for the development of local football. As the football landscape globally embraces technology, this course represents FUFA’s determination to remain at the forefront of football innovation in Africa as per its vision of being the number one footballing nation on and off the pitch.
By equipping local teams with these tools, FUFA is enabling coaches and team officials to make data-driven decisions in team selection, tactics, and player development.
In his closing remarks at the certification ceremony, Ronnie Kalema, a member of the FUFA Executive Committee, lauded the participants for their commitment and underlined the importance of this initiative:
“This technology will improve the accuracy of the player selection process for the national teams. With real-time data on players’ performances, it’s easier to assess who can make the biggest impact at both the club and national team levels.”
Mr. Kalema also used the occasion to announce that going forward, FUFA coaching courses will integrate modules focused on research and technology trends in football. He stressed that this would be essential in modernizing the way Ugandan coaches approach the game.
One of the highlights of the course was the introduction of Catapult Player Performance Tracking Technology, a state-of-the-art system used by elite clubs and national teams globally to track and monitor players’ physical output and performance metrics. Each men’s team in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League received a 21-player tracking set, while the women’s teams in the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League were given 18-player sets.
The Catapult technology provides a range of data points that give coaches deep insights into player performance. These include speed, distance covered, intensity of effort, and positioning on the field. With such technology, coaches can make informed decisions regarding player fitness, readiness for matches, and potential injury risks. Additionally, this system will allow for precise comparisons of player output, leading to more objective player evaluations for National Teams selection.
FUFA’s provision of this technology to both men’s and women’s top-tier teams demonstrates the federation’s commitment to gender equality and enhancing women’s football.
The 40 participants, representing various teams across the two leagues, expressed their enthusiasm about the new knowledge and tools at their disposal. With performance tracking technology now part of their resources, teams can adopt a more scientific approach to player development and match preparation. The information gathered from these systems can also be used to create personalized training regimens, optimize recovery periods, and improve team tactics based on data-driven analysis.
For teams in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League, this means that every aspect of their players’ fitness and on-field contributions can be closely monitored. This will inevitably lead to better performances and give Ugandan football a competitive edge in regional and international competitions.
Ashley De Beer, the course instructor, commented on the progress made during the two days of intensive training:
“The participants were highly engaged and demonstrated a clear willingness to embrace this new technology. I’m confident that with continued use, they will see significant improvements in the way they manage their teams and monitor player progress.”
This course was just the beginning of FUFA’s broader plan to incorporate technology into every aspect of the game through the FUFA Technical Master Plan. By adding research and technology trends as a module in future coaching courses, FUFA is equipping coaches with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in global football.
The introduction of the Catapult system also strengthens Uganda’s preparations for international competitions. With more precise data on player fitness, output, and potential, FUFA’s national team coaches will have an invaluable resource when it comes to assembling squads for major tournaments. This will increase the national teams’ chances of success and put Uganda in a better position to compete with top footballing nations in Africa and beyond.
