The 49th Edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup came to an end at Akiibua Memorial Stadium in Lira on June 3rd, 2023, as Police FC suffered a 1-0 defeat in the hands of the current league champions, Vipers SC.
Police FC Staring XI
Vipers SC Starting XI
Milton Karisa’s header from Bright Anukani’s corner kick in the 15th minute was enough to seal the scoreline for Vipers SC.
This is the third cup for Vipers SC and their first time to secure a double within a season.
The Stanbic Uganda Cup Final was attended by the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Executive Commitee Members Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, Dan Obote and Agnes Mugena, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, FUFA Deputy CEO Decolas Kiiza
The winners of the Stanbic Uganda Cup walk away with UGX 50,000,000/= while the runners up part with UGX 25,000,000/=
Police FC Line Up
Starting XI: Davis Mutebi (GK), Joseph Yawe Ssentume (C), Timothy Muwanguzi, Herman Wasswa Nteza, Samuel Kayongo, Emmanuel Mugume, Martin Owalamu, Tonny Kiwalazi, Dennis Kalanzi, Reagan Stephen Male, George Kiryowa
Substitutes: Jackson Ssemugabi, Missi Diego Semugera, Nsereko Abdul, Hassan Kikoyo, Daniel Jakony, Sammon Oloka, Aliyu Ahmed Danjuma
With the kick off of the inaugural FUFA Tv cup edging closer and closer, the invited eight (8) traditional schools are also looking forward to score highly on the pitch but not forgetting about smartness and fashion.
The traditional schools confirmed for the maiden tournament are King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Busoga College Mwiri, Namilyango College, Jinja College, Mengo Senior School, Makerere College School and Kiira College Butiki.
Take a look at the tops of their jerseys to be used during the tournament that kicks off on 10th June 2023.
Jersey tops
About the Tournament
The Theme of the Tournament is ‘Excellence in Academics and Sports’
FUFA to give two sets of jerseys to each school
FUFA will give 10 balls to each school
It is sponsored by FUFA Tv
Tournament will be broadcast live on FUFA Tv
Kicks off on 10th June 2023
8 traditional Schools will take part in the tournament
The school have been pooled in two groups
Matches will be played on knock out format of home and way basis
Semifinals will be played on 21 st June 2023
The Final will be played on 1 st July 2023
Benefits of FUFA Tv Cup
Live on FUFA Tv thereby showcasing the talents of the participating players to a worldwide audience and to football agents as well.
Each school to nominate 4 young enthusiastic students to be trained by FUFA as young Coaches, Match Referees and Digital Media Officers. Hence benefits to schools in other football/sports programs also individually opening youngsters to mainstream services.
FUFA Tv will provide all the uniforms for each participating school, as well as facilitate all the match officials for the games.
Cash prizes will be available in various categories
The full FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee
Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo – Chairman
Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah (Mengo Senior School) – Vice Chairman
Mr. Kiwanuka Roberts – Member
Mr. Ayub Khalifa – Member
Ms. Nambafu Justine – Member
Mr. Balinaine John Moses (Jinja College) – Member
Mr. Mugalu Ronald Malcom (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) – Member
Mr. Nyonyintono David – FUFA Secretariat (Competitions Officer)
The eight traditional schools confirmed for the first ever FUFA Tv Cup tournament have today received sports equipment during a function held at the FUFA Headquarters in Mengo.
The brief and colourful ceremony was attended by the school representatives.
The FUFA Tv Organising Committee Chairman Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, his deputy Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah of Mengo Senior School and Ayub Khalifan (Member) presided over the event.
Each participating team received two sets of jerseys (home and away), 10 footballs each and two captain arm bands per school.
Mugerwa Moses receives Makerere College School’s share
Sewaya Ismail receives Kiira College Butiki equipment
Balinaine John receives Jinja College’s share
Simon Peter Waiswa receives Busoga College Mwiri equipment
Buyinza Mathias receives King’s College Budo equipment
Okwanga Pius receives Namilyango College equipment
Paul Mukatabala from St. Mary’s College Kisubi receives equipment
Jeremiah Mugerwa of Mengo SS receiving equipment
Jeremiah Mugerwa of Mengo SS receiving equipment
The well designed and fashionable kits are meeting the current jersey trends on global market. The jerseys are bearing the school logos, FUFA Tv Cup logo on the left sleeve of the shirt and the front part taken by the official broadcaster FUFA Tv.
Mr. Mugerwa who represented Mengo SS but spoke on behalf of the teams said that the jerseys are of good quality and his boys will be looking forward to using them during the tournament.
“We thank FUFA and President Magogo for this gesture. We are edging closer and closer to the kick off and these re signs of good preparations for the tournament. The jerseys are nice and the players will look smart in them. Traditional schools have been known for competing favourably in academics but this tournament will give them the chance to perform better in football.” said Mugerwa.
The matches to be broadcast live on FUFA Tv will be played on knock out format but on a home and away basis.
The schools invited are; King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Busoga College Mwiri, Namilyango College, Jinja College, Mengo Senior School, Makerere College School and Kiira College Butiki.
The teams have been pooled into two groups.
Group A: Makerere College School, King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Mengo Senior School
Group B: Namilyango College, Jinja College, Busoga College Mwiri, Kiira College Butiki
The tournament will kick off on 10th June 2023 with two explosive fixtures that will see Makerere College School hosting Mengo Senior school at the Makerere University Main Ground at 10am while Kiira College Butiki up against Namilyango College at 4pm.
The following day 11th June 2023 will have St Mary’s College Kisubi and King’s College Budo lock horns in what will be dubbed the ‘FUFA Tv Blockbuster schools derby’ in Kisubi at 4pm.
The Busoga region schools clash has Busoga College Mwiri hosting Jinja College in Mwiri at 10am.
The return leg matches will be played between 14th -17th June.
The Semifinals also to be played on a home and away basis will be held on 21st June 2023 (1st leg) and 25th June 2023 (return leg).
The final to be played over match will be held on 1st July 2023.
About the Tournament
The Theme of the Tournament is ‘Excellence in Academics and Sports’
FUFA to give two sets of jerseys to each school
FUFA will give 10 balls to each school
It is sponsored by FUFA Tv
Tournament will be broadcast live on FUFA Tv
Kicks off on 10th June 2023
8 traditional Schools will take part in the tournament
The school have been pooled in two groups
Matches will be played on knock out format of home and way basis
Semifinals will be played on 21st June 2023
The Final will be played on 1st July 2023
Benefits of FUFA Tv Cup
Live on FUFA Tv thereby showcasing the talents of the participating players to a worldwide audience and to football agents as well.
Each school to nominate 4 young enthusiastic students to be trained by FUFA as young Coaches, Match Referees and Digital Media Officers. Hence benefits to schools in other football/sports programs also individually opening youngsters to mainstream services.
FUFA Tv will provide all the uniforms for each participating school, as well as facilitate all the match officials for the games.
Cash prizes will be available in various categories.
The full FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee
Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo – Chairman
Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah (Mengo Senior School) – Vice Chairman
Mr. Kiwanuka Roberts – Member
Mr. Ayub Khalifa – Member
Ms. Nambafu Justine – Member
Mr. Balinaine John Moses (Jinja College) – Member
Mr. Mugalu Ronald Malcom (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) – Member
Mr. Nyonyintono David – FUFA Secretariat (Competitions Officer)
Police FC v Vipers SC – Akiibua Memorial Stadium, Lira | 3 PM
Live on FUFA Tv
It will be fireworks at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira as recently crowned Champions of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Vipers faceoff against FUFA Big League side Police FC in an anticipated epic final of the 49th edition of Stanbic Uganda Cup.
The Venoms are looking forward to bouncing back from last year’s defeat against Bul and also writing a history of winning a double and third Stanbic Uganda Cup while the Cops are looking forward to winning their first ever Stanbic Uganda Cup after losing a final in 2013 against Express.
What the Coaches and Captains Say
Angelo Lonyesi – Police FC Coach
“This is going to be one of the easiest games for us this season. We’ve had enough time to prepare, and the boys are so ready to take on Vipers. Many never expected us to reach here and we are here & we shall also surprise them by winning the trophy.”
— Stanbic Uganda Cup (@FUFAUgandaCup) June 2, 2023
Alex Isabirye – Vipers SC Coach
“We cannot underestimate Police, reaching the final is not for the weak or small teams. We have prepared for it like we would prepare for any strong team. I know they are also prepared for us but we shall win the trophy.”
— Stanbic Uganda Cup (@FUFAUgandaCup) June 2, 2023
Milton Karisa – Vipers SC Captain
“It’s an important game in our lives as players because it is an opportunity to win. The coaches have done their job of preparing us thus the burden is on us to deliver.”
— Stanbic Uganda Cup (@FUFAUgandaCup) June 2, 2023
Road to Final
Police FC comes to this round after eliminating Apuutun FC, Pajule Lions FC, Ndejje University FC, BUL FC and Adjumani TC FC in the round of 64, round of 32, round of 16, Quater Final and Semi Final respectively.
Vipers SC on the other hand eliminated Bujumbura United FC, Jinja North United FC, Wakiso Giants FC, Calvary FC and Soltilo Bright Stars FC in the round of 64, round of 32, round of 16, Quater Final and Semi Final respectively.
The 2027 AFCON Pamoja Bid submitted by Uganda (Federation of Uganda Football Associations), Kenya (Football Kenya Federation) and Tanzania (Tanzania Football Federation) continues to gather pace.
The bid was submitted a week ago with the aim of the three African countries winning the rights to co-host AFCON 2027.
All the necessary requirements have been met and the bid submitted to CAF within the set timelines by 23 rd May 2023.
FUFA Executive has gone ahead to approve an internal working committee for smooth and well-coordinated operations that will handle tasks by FUFA and also coordinate with other stakeholders including the Government of Uganda.
The committee will work hand in hand with CAF on their special visit to Uganda to inspect the key items and facilities submitted in the bid.
The Committee appointed has;
Mr. Justus Mugisha – Chairman
Mr. Darius Mugoye – Vice Chairman
Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi – Member
Mr. Rogers Byamukama – Member
Mr. Ronnie Kalema – Member
Mr. Rogers Mulindwa – Member
Mr. Amin Bbosa Nkono – Member
The FUFA Executive approved the committee on Sunday 28 th May 2023.
The FUFA Executive has approved the new playing format of the 2023 FUFA Drum competition.
The tournament played by 16 Provinces since its inception in 2018 will witness changes in the early stages of this year.
The official communication signed off by the FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza reads; “Whereas there had been desire to play the FUFA Drum in the original version with 61 matches being played, a new version will be introduced with 46 matches which is an improvement on the last edition where 30 matches were played”
The FUFA Drum resumed last year after two years of recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic that hit the globe and affected the organization of several competitions.
The approved version of the 2023 FUFA Drum is as follows,
a) On the basis of the last edition’s performance the best 8 province teams will get byes to the next round.
b) The last 8 Province teams are randomly paired to play home and away (8 matches).
c) The 4 winners on aggregate join the other 8 that received byes to make 12 province teams.
d) The 12 Province teams be seeded according to performance into 3 pots and draw of lots conducted to have 4 groups (A, B, C, D) of 3 teams each.
e) Teams in each group play each other home and away (24 matches).
f) The best 2 teams in each group progress to quarter finals (A1 v B2, B1 v A2, C1 v D2, D1 v C2) home and away (8 matches).
g) Winners progress to semifinals to be played home and away (4 matches).
h) Losers play for third place (1 match).
i) Winners play for first place (1 match).
The past winners of the FUFA Drum are; Buganda Province (2018), Acholi Province (2019), West Nile Province (2022/2023).
The fixtures of the maiden FUFA Tv Cup tournament for Uganda’s traditional schools are out.
After a series of activities involving consultative meetings and capacity building workshops with officials of the eight invited schools, the organizing committee has now released the road map of the entire competition whose matches will be broadcast live on FUFA Tv.
The matches will be played on knock out format but on a home and away basis.
The schools invited are; King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Busoga College Mwiri, Namilyango College, Jinja College, Mengo Senior School, Makerere College School and Kiira College Butiki.
The teams have been pooled into two groups.
Group A: Makerere College School, King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Mengo Senior School
Group B: Namilyango College, Jinja College, Busoga College Mwiri, Kiira College Butiki
The tournament will kick off on 10 th June 2023 with two explosive fixtures that will see Makerere College School hosting Mengo Senior school at the Makerere University Main Ground at 10am while Kiira College Butiki up against Namilyango College at 4pm.
The following day 11th June 2023 will have St Mary’s College Kisubi and King’s College Budo lock horns in what will be dubbed the ‘FUFA Tv Blockbuster schools derby’ in Kisubi at 4pm.
The Busoga region schools clash has Busoga College Mwiri hosting Jinja College in Mwiri at 10am.
The return leg matches will be played between 14th -17th June.
The Semifinals also to be played on a home and away basis will be held on 21 st June 2023 (1 st leg) and 25 th June 2023 (return leg).
The final to be played over match will be held on 1 st July 2023.
The FUFA Tv Organising Committee is headed by FUFA Executive Committee Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe and is deputised by Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah of Mengo Senior School.
Dr. Ahimbisibwe is excited about the opportunities FUFA has created to give students from the tradition schools to play football at this level.
“FUFA’s main goal of the FUFA Tv Cup is to give an opportunity to soccer players, referees and coaches at carefully selected traditional secondary schools more re-known for academic excellence, to undertake football development in safe, secure and technically managed environment without compromising academics” said Ahimbisibwe.
About the Tournament
The Theme of the Tournament is ‘Excellence in Academics and Sports’
FUFA to give two sets of jerseys to each school
FUFA will give 10 balls to each school
It is sponsored by FUFA Tv
Tournament will be broadcast live on FUFA Tv
Kicks off on 10th June 2023
8 traditional Schools will take part in the tournament
The school have been pooled in two groups
Matches will be played on knock out format of home and way basis
Semifinals will be played on 21 st June 2023
The Final will be played on 1 st July 2023
Benefits of FUFA Tv Cup
Live on FUFA Tv thereby showcasing the talents of the participating players to a worldwide audience and to football agents as well.
Each school to nominate 4 young enthusiastic students to be trained by FUFA as young Coaches, Match Referees and Digital Media Officers. Hence benefits to schools in other football/sports programs also individually opening youngsters to mainstream services.
FUFA Tv will provide all the uniforms for each participating school, as well as facilitate all the match officials for the games.
Cash prizes will be available in various categories
The full FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee
Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo – Chairman
Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah (Mengo Senior School) – Vice Chairman
Mr. Kiwanuka Roberts – Member
Mr. Ayub Khalifa – Member
Ms. Nambafu Justine – Member
Mr. Balinaine John Moses (Jinja College) – Member
Mr. Mugalu Ronald Malcom (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) – Member
Mr. Nyonyintono David – FUFA Secretariat (Competitions Officer)
Injuries are nightmares to football players and are some of the most common threats to the life span of their playing careers. While hopefully infrequent, they are often an unavoidable part of sport participation.
The physical effects of injuries to players are widely known. However, the most daunting task is the recovery period which strikes hard on the psychological side of the players with many thoughts crossing their minds. The psychological side is less frequently discussed and supported. Mental health affects rehabilitation outcomes and recovery. Therefore, for players that suffer nagging and long-term injuries, psychological management is crucial.
In 2019, the 95th FUFA Assembly held in Adjumani saw it wise to start a Medical Insurance scheme to cater for players in the Uganda Premier League. It was the biggest news to club football as it would bring an end to huge sums of monies spent by clubs on treatment of player’s injuries.
To a section of people that always look at tangible contributions from FUFA towards domestic competitions, the insurance scheme arrived with criticism. However, FUFA under the leadership of President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim took the initial steps as they monitored and supervised the medical insurance scheme rollout. Four years down the road, the impact has been far reaching with FUFA looking to widen the pool of beneficiaries.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Services, Humphrey Mandu where the medical insurance scheme falls gives a synopsis of how the whole idea was mooted and later hatched into reality.
‘We managed to come up with a concept given the guidance by the FUFA EXCO and managed to secure three service providers under Medical Insurance. Basically, the issue was about the plight of players especially in the elite league because they form the core of the national teams. Meaning that having a healthy league player meant you would have a healthy player for the national team,’
But what does the FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme entail?
The FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme covers injuries players sustain during league games, dental, accidents off the pitch and sickness.
Additionally, a player has the liberty to have any two persons of his/her choice partaking of the insurance cover.
Clubs give testimonies of how the scheme has been a timely intervention knowing that some of the would be direct costs to the teams are catered for by the FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme.
Harold Atukwatse – Soltilo Bright Stars FC official
‘We had two players last year who underwent surgeries, they were on the sidelines for about six or seven months. Previously, we used to have players who would be forced to play on with injuries and that would affect their performance in the end. However, this has changed with the arrival of the FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme. When a player sustains an injury, you just notify the federation and he is attended to and we are really grateful.’
Anisha Muhoozi – KCCA FC CEO
‘It is very good if players are able to access the basic needs such as medication because this gives guarantee to their careers. Earlier on, many were forced to abandon their careers because either clubs or individually would not be able to foot the bills that come along with the recovery process.‘
Players who have directly benefited from the FUFA Insurance cover share their story as well and appreciate the Federation.
Grace Nassongo – She Corporate FC Forward
‘It was a hard moment for me and it only took the strong mentality that I have. But I’m grateful for the support I got from my friends, family and teammates and above all FUFA who extended the support through medication. When you go through such a period and you have a shoulder to lean on, it becomes easy, so special appreciation to FUFA’
Rhonah Nantege – She Corporate FC Forward
Being down and not being able to help my team was a bad experience but I am happy that finally, I can kick the ball again and slowly getting back. I want to thank FUFA because of this programme because today its me, tomorrow it will be another player from some other team. When you consider the bills, it is difficult for a player or club to incur but we are able to get such medication for free.
Josephat Ayebare -Ndejje University FC defender
I sustained an injury when we playing a FUFA Drum game between my team Kigezi against Buganda in Nakisunga. I was treated very well at St. Catherine, underwent a surgery and went through the recovery process. The entire process cost about eleven million shillings. Personally, I would not be able to raise such money but I’m thankful to FUFA that all the bills were covered and I’m back playing football.
Shadia Nankya – UCU Lady Cardinals defender
I had never sustained a serious injury and it really got me thinking what I would do incase I cannot play football anymore. But the doctors took me through the whole process, my family was behind me and the operation was successful. The rehabilitation process was challenging but I kept the belief and after almost seven months, I was able to play again. I cannot express by gratitude to FUFA in words but deep down my heart, I am thankfully that FUFA offered me support during a tough period.
FUFA Medical Insurance scheme is here to give players an opportunity to live and play for longer periods with less worries about injuries.
The FUFA Executive Committee has approved the composition of the inaugural Invitational FUFA Tv Cup for eight traditional Secondary schools in Uganda.
The schools invited are King’s College Budo, St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Busoga College Mwiri, Namilyango College, Jinja College, Mengo Senior School, Makerere College School and Kiira College Butiki.
The Committee has been tasked to monitor, supervise and manage the organisation of the eight-team tournament that will run from 10th June to 1st July 2023.
The Committee will be headed by FUFA Executive Committee Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe and will be deputised by Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah of Mengo Senior School.
Dr. Ahimbisibwe is excited about the opportunities FUFA has created to give students from the tradition schools to play football at this level.
“FUFA’s main goal of the FUFA Tv Cup is to give an opportunity to soccer players, referees and coaches at carefully selected traditional secondary schools more re-known for academic excellence, to undertake football development in safe, secure and technically managed environment without compromising academics” said Ahimbisibwe.
The full FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee
Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo – Chairman
Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah (Mengo Senior School) – Vice Chairman
Mr. Kiwanuka Roberts – Member
Mr. Ayub Khalifa – Member
Ms. Nambafu Justine – Member
Mr. Balinaine John Moses (Jinja College) – Member
Mr. Mugalu Ronald Malcom (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) – Member
Mr. Nyonyintono David – FUFA Secretariat (Competitions Officer)
The Theme of the Tournament is “Excellence in Academics and Sports”
FUFA to give two sets of jerseys to each school.
FUFA will give 10 balls to each school.
It is sponsored by FUFA Tv.
Tournament will be broadcast live on FUFA Tv.
Kicks off on 10th June 2023.
8 traditional Schools will take part in the tournament.
The school have been pooled in two groups.
Matches will be played on knock out format of home and way basis.
Semifinals will be played on 21st June 2023.
The Final will be played on 1st July 2023.
Benefits of FUFA Tv Cup
Live on FUFA Tv thereby showcasing the talents of the participating players to a worldwide audience and to football agents as well.
Each school to nominate 4 young enthusiastic students to be trained by FUFA as young Coaches, Match Referees and Digital Media Officers. Hence benefits to schools in other football/sports programs also individually opening youngsters to mainstream services.
FUFA Tv will provide all the uniforms for each participating school, as well as facilitate all the match officials for the games.
Cash prizes will be available in various categories.
Denis Omedi’s lone goal was enough to secure victory for the Uganda Cranes against Eastern Region Select in a Regional Tour match played at the Irundu Township P/S Play Ground in Buyende on Tuesday evening.
The match which was also televised live on FUFA Tv was graced by the FUFA President Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim who also serves as the area Member of Parliament in company of his 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, FUFA Executive Committee Member representing Eastern Region Yisa Magoola, Eastern Region Chairman Isa Musiwa, Buyende District RDC and a mammoth crowd who enjoyed all moments to the maximum.
After the match, the Uganda Cranes Coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic expressed his delight for the display both teams which lived to the expectation of the crowd and also added that this was the first filter ahead of the AFCON 2023 Qualification match against Algeria.
“We have played without Champions (Vipers SC) players but we took what we thought was the best locally. We’ve always had tough matches with the Eastern Region but today we’ve had a good match which has been enjoyed by many people. We have tested ourselves and this has been a bounce back for those who failed to win the league. I’m glad the lone goal scorer is Denis Omedi who was the top scorer in the FUFA Big League. That is a clear indicator of the quality in the Big League and Omedi is a prospect who needs to be looked at closely. From here we are going back to Kampala to continue with our preparations, and we will be joined by the foreign based players and the local based who didn’t make it to Buyende,” said Micho
The team returns to Kampala on Tuesday and will straight away head to Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi.
Uganda Cranes XI: Alionzi Nafian, James Begisa, Umar Lutalo, Gift Fred, Geoffrey Wasswa, Semakula Kenneth, Moses Waiswa, Allan Okello, Sharif kimbowa, Mato Kassim Rogers, Charles Bbaale
Substitutes: Norman Angufidru, Edward Kasibante, Maxwell Kamurari, Kasonko George, Marvin Kavuma, Denis Omedi, Saidi Mayanja, Ibrahim Thembo, Rogers Mugisha
Two time Cup winners and current champions of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Vipers SC will face FUFA Big League side Police FC in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Final on June 3rd, 2023, at Akii-Bua Memorial Stadium, Lira.
Vipers SC secured their place in the final after defeating Soltilo Bright Stars FC 4-1 on aggregate while their opponents Police FC won by the away goal rule.
Road to Final
Police FC comes to this round after eliminating Apuutun FC, Pajule Lions FC, Ndejje University FC, BUL FC and Adjumani TC FC in the round of 64, round of 32, round of 16, Quater Final and Semi Final respectively.
— Stanbic Uganda Cup (@FUFAUgandaCup) May 26, 2023
Vipers SC on the other hand eliminated Bujumbura United FC, Jinja North United FC, Wakiso Giants FC, Calvary FC and Soltilo Bright Stars FC in the round of 64, round of 32, round of 16, Quater Final and Semi Final respectively.
Uganda Senior Women’s National Football team, the Crested Cranes have been drawn against neighbours Rwanda in the CAF Women’s Olympics Football tournament qualifiers.
The final tournament will take place in Paris, France next year.
In the draws conducted on Tuesday afternoon in Cairo, Egypt, the Crested Cranes were pitted in Pot 4 comprising of CECAFA and COSAFA nations namely Mozambique, Namibia Tanzania and Ethiopia.
According to the draw format, teams in pot 4 had play face any of the nations from Pot 3 which compromised of teams from UNIFAC, COSAFA and CECAFA I.e Chad, Congo Brazaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Rwanda.
The outcome of the draw pitted Uganda against Rwanda and the games will be played between 10th -18th July with the former hosting first.
The most recent engagement between the two Nations saw Uganda triumph 2-0 at CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship last year thanks to Ikwaput’s brace.
It should noted that Uganda took part in the qualifiers for the previous edition (2020) but eliminated at the first round by Ethiopia.
The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Rwanda will face Cameroon who are one of the seven teams that got a bye at this stage.
Only two teams from Africa will play at the final tournament in Paris, France.
Crested Cranes will face neighbours Rwanda at the first round of the 2024 Women’s Olympic football tournament qualifiers.
The two neighbouring countries were pitted together in the draw event held on Tuesday in Cairo, Egypt.
The Crested Cranes will host the first leg before the two teams face off in the return leg in Kigali, Rwanda with the games slated for 10th -18th July 2023.
The winner on aggregate will advance to the second round where Cameroon awaits. The latter got a bye at this stage.
It should be noted that Uganda defeated Rwanda 2-0 in the recent engagement thanks to Fazila Ikwaput’s brace the 2022 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship.
Shamirah Nalugya in action against Rwanda during the 2022 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship.
Crested Cranes took part in the qualifiers for the previous edition (2020) but got eliminated at the first round at the hands of Ethiopia.
The target therefore this time will to better the performance in the last outing and hope to secure a slot the coveted tournament.
It should be noted that Africa is allocated only two slots at the Women’s Olympic Football tournament.
A contingent of twenty-one Uganda Cranes players set off on Monday May 29th, 2023, from the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi for Kamuli at 9:00 AM and arrived at 1:00 PM.
They are spending the night at the Kyemba Garden Hotel ahead of the Eastern Regional Tour match against the Eastern Region Select on Tuesday 30.05.2023 at the Irundu Township Primary School Play Ground.
The team conducted the last training session at the St Joseph Vocational Training Centre on Monday evening with all the players and technical team ready to give the best show to the people of Buyende.
While addressing the media, Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic highlighted that among those selected are the best players from the newly promoted teams in the Uganda Premier League.
“We have very strong FUFA Big League teams and the best players from the three promoted teams have been brought here in order to check them and to allow them knock on the door of the National Team. This shows that we respect the people that play in the Big League and that we are one football family.” — Milutin Sredojevic, Uganda Cranes Head Coach
“The team currenty in Kamuli is without players from Vipers SC and Soltilo bright Stars, and Mutyaba Travis who is nursing an injury.” — Milutin Sredojevic, Uganda Cranes Head Coach
It was all smiles and jubilations in the Luzira Upper Prison as inmates welcomed their favourite visitors from FUFA at the FUFA Cup of Hope finals 2023.
The FUFA Cup of Hope is annual football tournament that is organized and sponsored by FUFA as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Luzira upper prisons section for inmates who play in teams christened with names of clubs that play in the Uganda Premier league. The tournament had been halted by the Covid 19 pandemic and only returned this year after the situation normalised.
Presently there are 10 teams; URA, Express, Bright Stars, Blacks Power, Villa, Vipers, Azam, KCCA, Onduparaka and Proline. This year’s edition kicked off on May 1st and was concluded on May 28 with Proline and Onduparaka facing off in the final that was graced FUFA President Hon Magogo Moses Hassim and a delegation that he led that also included former Uganda Cranes stars who are part of the President’s XI and two former inmates who went there to give testimony as well as offer hope to their colleagues.
The FUFA delegation comprised of 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, ExCom member Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, Big League delegate Hassan Kirunda, National Teams manager Patrick Ntege, Commercial Director Fred Kumakech, Events Manager Leilah Nankya, Events officer Phoebe Kutamba.
These were received by the Officer in Charge Upper Maximum Prison Senior Superintendent of Prisons Mbaziira Bryan Corr who then introduced them to the Regional Prisons Commander – Commisioner of Prisons Ms Nabunya Stella who commended FUFA for the generous and humble gesture that supplements their efforts of holistically rehabilitating the inmates by using football.
“I want to welcome you to Luzira and especially thank you for the support you render to Luzira Upper prison. I only wish you could make it at least 2 times every year and possibly extend it to other correctional facilities because we have several in the Kampala extra region including; Kampala remand, Kigo prison, Kitalya among others because recreational activities is one way we use to rehabilitate the prisoners and football is the most popular sport.” Commissioner of Prisons Stella Nabunya remarked.
Officer in Charger SSP Mbaziira was full of praises of the FUFA President for his interest and commitment in the tournament.
“To understand the value of a smile is when you give it to someone who has nothing left to give. Thank you FUFA team lead by Hon. Magogo, Uganda cranes Ex Internationals, thank you Uganda prisons staff and most importantly thank you dear inmates for playing very well and keeping the discipline. Sports excellence is all about discipline.” He stated.
In his remarks FUFA President reaffirmed his and the federations commitment to continue supporting the tournament as away of giving back to the community.
“It is in our objectives and part of FUFA’s CSR to make sure we give back to the vulnerable members of our communities and may need hope. The FUFA Cup of hope is on our annual calendar in May and we will continue supporting the development of referees, coaches, administrators among others such that we develop capacity amongst you to enable you manage your own football.” – FUFA President stated.
“You may be here for many different reasons, but we believe one day you will go back and reunite with your families and the communities. Our purpose of coming here is always to keep that hope alive, when you are here it is not the end. You have people praying and wishing you utmost wellness. Finally, I want to thank management of Uganda prisons and you people for accepting our suggestion of changing the names of your teams from foreign clubs to our local clubs.” He added.
The President XI played a curtain raiser match against a select side from Upper Prison – Upper Stars that ended in a one-all draw before Proline Upper Prison took on and defeated Onduparak 2-0 in the finals of FUFA Cup of Hope 2023.
FUFA President handed over an assortment of equipment; 4 sets of jerseys, 10 ball and a pump, 2 pairs of goalkeepers gloves, a first aid box, referees equipment(cards, whistles,stop clock), 2 sacks of sugar, 2 sacks of rice and 2 goats donated to the inmates of the Luzira Upper Prison handed over to the officer In Charge SSP Mbaziira together with Upper Prisons Sports Association Chairperson Ambrose Turyasingura
Thank you for Supporting Football.
The FUFA President also expressed his appreciation to the management of Uganda Prisons Services for their love and support for football through their two sister clubs.
The other thing I want to thank Uganda Prison service for their love for football. You own two football clubs; Maroons FC that plays in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and She Maroons a women’s football club that has been promoted to the FUFA Womens Super league on and has also qualified for the finals of the FUFA Women’s Cup to be played on June 10th in Kumi against Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC. These are very competitive clubs that contribute to the development and promotion of the game.
Saturday May 27th, 2023, marked the highly anticipated final day of the 2022/23 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season, and it certainly delivered on its promise of excitement and unpredictability.
The day witnessed a series of astonishing outcomes, with the team in first place ending up in third, while the second-placed team managed to secure the coveted top spot.
A total of 11 goals were scored across three matches, ultimately determining the league’s champion and providing a fitting finale to the season.
Vipers SC starting XI
Busoga United FC starting XI
SC Villa starting XI
URA FC starting XI
Adding to the thrill of the occasion, a helicopter made a grand entrance at St Mary’s Stadium to deliver the coveted trophy. Given the various permutations on the final day, including Lugogo and Wankulukuku as potential venues, the destination of the trophy remained uncertain until the last moment.
Villa, entering the final match with the requirement of a victory against URA to secure the championship, faced a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat at home against the Tax Collectors, thus dashing their hopes of claiming the title.
In the end, Vipers showcased their dominance by overpowering Busoga United with an impressive 5-0 victory, securing the top position and becoming the champions of the league.
— StarTimes Uganda Premier League (@UPL) May 28, 2023
Victory by Vipers SC marked a significant milestone for the team as it was their first successful defense of the league title, making it their sixth championship win. On the other hand, Villa, who were on the verge of ending their 19-year wait for a league title, experienced a dramatic downfall, slipping from first place to third, finishing just one point behind Vipers and KCCA. Notably, Villa’s dream was ended by coach Sam Timbe, the same individual who led Villa to their last league triumph in 2004.
Meanwhile, at Lugogo, young talent Rogers Mato stole the spotlight, delivering an outstanding performance for KCCA FC. Mato scored an impressive four goals, finding the back of the net in the 48th, 61st, 88th, and 94th minutes, with his fourth goal coming from the penalty spot. Charles Lwanga also contributed to the thumping victory with a goal of his own.
— StarTimes Uganda Premier League (@UPL) May 28, 2023
In another match, relegated Blacks Power emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Express, courtesy of goals from Daniel Otim, Dickens Okwi, and Robert Eseru. Allan Kayiwa scored Express’ consolation goal, securing his position as the season’s top scorer with 13 goals, one more than Villa’s Charles Bbaale.
Elsewhere, Arua Hill triumphed over Wakiso Giants with a lone goal from Innocent Media, while relegated Onduparaka showcased their prowess with a convincing 4-1 win over UPDF on the soldiers’ home turf in Bombo. Gasper Adriko, Rogers Okumu, Dominic Abonga, and Boy Fazilino all found the back of the net for Onduparaka, while Jibril Nsimbe scored UPDF’s consolation goal.
FIFA Member Association referees Course for FIFA & National referees at FUFA Technical Center Njeru ended on Friday, May 26th, 2023.
A total of thirty-one referees took part in the refresher course that ran for a period of six days starting on Sunday, May 21, 2023.
Among the 31, nine were women including Nambasa Jackie Mbekeka who at 19 years old, was the youngest in the class.
The referees went through theory and practical sessions during their stay in Njeru, with FIFA technical instructor Jason Joseph Damoo from Seychelles and FIFA fitness instructor Mark Mzengo from Malawi handling the course.
List of participants
Sabilla Ali Chelangat (FIFA) Ssali Mashood (FIFA) Oloya William (FIFA) Olemu George (FIFA) Nabadda Shamirah (FIFA) Murungi Diana (FIFA) Katenya Ronald (FIFA) Masembe Isa (FIFA) Mulindwa Hakim (FIFA) Nantabo Lydia Wanyama (FIFA) Okudra Emmanuel (FIFA) Mutonyi Jane (FIFA) Nassolo Elizabeth (FIFA) Kasalirwe Lucky Razake (FIFA) Gumisiriza Timothy Karusigarira (FIFA) Naigaga Habiba (FIFA)
Outeke Daniel Moses Uhuru (National) Happy Badru (National) Duula Joshua (National) Musisi Brianson (National) Katerega Ashiraf (National) Tumusiime Gerard Tuge (National) Mbabali Samuel (National) Kakembo Ahmed (National) Aweko Kevin (National) Ongiera Immaculate (National) Mafumu Mustapha (National) Kavuma Vicent (National) Kiiza Aisha (National) Nambasa Jackie Mbekeka (National) Ssemeere Asadu (National)
Uganda Cranes Head Coach Milutin Sredojevic “Micho” has summoned a provisional squad for the forthcoming match against Group F table leaders Algeria in Douala City, Cameroon.
The squad named is comprised of 42 players, 18 of which are foreign-based while the rest are locally based.
Photo: Mato celebrates the late winner that guided Uganda past Tanzania on Match Day Four
The Cranes will play against the Desert Foxes on June 18th, 2023, in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
On the Group F table, Uganda is in 3rd place with four points, the same as neighbours Tanzania and will later on play Niger in September.
Full list
Cranes to go for a regional tour in the build-up
Thirty-two locally-based players have been summoned by the Uganda Cranes Head Coach Milutin Sredojevic “Micho” for an Eastern Regional Tour match that is scheduled to be played on Tuesday, May 30th 2023 at Irundu Primary School Playground, Buyende District.
