Author: Ahmed Marsha

The Uganda Senior Women National Football Team (The Crested Cranes), carried a light recovery training session on Thursday at MTN-Omondi Stadium Lugogo.

According to the head coach George Lutalo, the light session that lasted for about an hour after the early afternoon downpour, was aimed at regenerating the players’ muscle strength and keeping the focus after yesterday’s game.

Uganda beat Ethiopia 2-0 in the first leg of the AWCON qualifier at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende yesterday, courtesy of Riticia Nabbosa and Fauzia Najjemba goals, to take a comfortable lead ahead of the second leg to be played in Addis Ababa on Tuesday next week.

“The recovery session we have had today is just to shake of the fatigue from yesterday’s game but also help the players’ muscles get back to normal training.” He said.

However, midfielder Nabossa who limped off before the end of the first half to pave way for Shamilah Nalugya, sat out the entire recovery session but Lutalo said her condition is not worrying ahead of the crucial encounter in Addis.

“It’s unfortunate that she (Nabossa) got injured yesterday and we have decided to rest her for today’s training as we work on her recovery very soon,” Lutalo said.

The team of 30 has been reduced to 24 with defenders Bira Nadunga (Olila High School WFC), Samalie Nakacwa, Aisha Nantongo and midfielders Resty Kobusobozi, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Hadijah Nandago having left for yet another fresh assignment with the Uganda U-20 that joined camp yesterday at FUFA technical center Njeru ahead of the CECAFA U20 Women’s Championship that kicks off on October 28 at the same venue.

The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Ethiopia will face either South Sudan or Kenya at the final qualification phase.

The Uganda U20 Women’s National Team has today conducted the first training sessions as preparations for the forthcoming CECAFA U20 Women’s Championship began.

Uganda will host the inaugural regional Championship between 28th October -9th November 2021 in Njeru.

The team under the stewardship of head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi held two training sessions at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru where they pitched camp.

Kiyingi believes the time they have now and the start of the tournament will be aimed at ironing mistakes with the ultimate target being winning the Championship.

‘I believe majority of the players are in good shape because they have been part of the set up and we have had only a few days of resting since the game we played against Kenya’ he indicated before adding, ‘Our target going into the Championship is to win it because that will give us momentum as we prepare to face South Africa.’

It should be noted that the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team will face South Africa in the third round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in December.

In the provisional squad summoned, there are new faces and the coach believes these bring fresh competition to the squad.

The new additions include; Diana Natukunda, Aisha Namukaaya, Constance Nelima and Olivia Babirye.

Babirye who features for Lady Doves FC in the FUFA Women Super League believes this is an important opportunity to be part of the National set-up and hopes to bring positive energy to the squad.

‘I am delighted with the call to the team because every player dreams of having such an opportunity. I will work had to to add value to this wonderful group.’

With some of the players still with the Senior National Team Crested Cranes, coach Kiyingi has no doubt that they will come back with positive attitude to bolster the rest of the squad.

These include captain Fauzia Najjemba, Daphine Nyayenga, Juliet Nalukenge, Shamirah Nalugya, Sumaya Komuntale and Magret Kunihira

Full U20 Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Diana Natukunda (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Saida Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens FC)

Defenders
Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), , Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Stella Musibika (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Harima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Gillian Akadinda (Olila High School FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC)

Midfielders
Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Phiona Nabulime (Devine Soccer Academy), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Olivia Babirye (Lady Doves FC)

Forwards
Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), , Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon Ladies FC), Zaituni Namaganda (Taggy High School FC), Joweria Nagadya (Lady Doves FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC), Aisha Namukaaya (Dynamic SS Jjeza WFC), Constance Nelima (She Kataka FC), Ronah Regina Nantege (She Corporate FC)

Officials
Head Coach – Ayub Khalifan Kiyingi
Assistant Coach – Oliver Mbekeka
Goalkeeping Coach – Mubarak Kiberu
Team Doctor – Stella Nankumba
Equipment Manager – Cissy Nakiguba
Media Officer – Faridah Tomusange Nassejje

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team will return to residential camp on Wednesday (today) to kickstart preparations for the forthcoming CECAFA U20 Women’s Championship.

Uganda will host this year’s CECAFA U20 Women’s Championship at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru between 28th October and 10th November.

The team broke off on 9th October after eliminating Kenya from the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers with some of the players summoned to the Senior National Team (Crested Cranes).

Coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi has summoned a provisional squad of 30 players and it is here that the final squad will be named.

The core of the team that faced Kenya has been maintained, including striker Juliet Nalukenge who recently joined Apollon Ladies FC in Cyprus.

U20 Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Diana Natukunda (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Saida Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens FC)

Defenders
Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), , Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Stella Musibika (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Harima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Gillian Akadinda (Olila High School FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC)

Midfielders
Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Phiona Nabulime (Devine Soccer Academy), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Olivia Babirye (Lady Doves FC)

Forwards
Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), , Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon Ladies FC), Zaituni Namaganda (Taggy High School FC), Joweria Nagadya (Lady Doves FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC), Aisha Namukaaya (Dynamic SS Jjeza WFC), Constance Nelima (She Kataka FC), Ronah Regina Nantege (She Corporate FC)

Officials
Head Coach – Ayub Khalifan Kiyingi
Assistant Coach – Oliver Mbekeka
Goalkeeping Coach – Mubarak Kiberu
Team Doctor – Stella Nankumba
Equipment Manager – Cissy Nakiguba
Media Officer – Faridah Tomusange Nassejje

Crested Cranes head coach George Lutalo, has indicated his charges are ready to face off with Ethiopia in the first leg of the 2022 Africa Women Cup of Nations Qualifiers on Wednesday at St Mary’s stadium, Kitende.

Lutalo who is in his second month as the coach has been with team for the last week at FUFA technical Centre, Njeru believes they had enough time to jell together.

“I think we have had enough time to prepare for this game. Everyone is ready and the team is in perfect shape,” he said in the pre Match press conference.

The gaffer also asserts that playing at COSAFA Women’s Championship in South Africa last month came with several positives despite not going out of the group.

“The tournament we had in South Africa was important because it helped us understand where we stand. We realized where we need to improve and that is what we have been working on.”

About the addition of players from the U20 Women’s National Team, Lutalo believes they come with positive energy and commitment.

“They have been an important addition to the squad. They bring a different dimension to the team and we hope for the best result against Ethiopia.”

Team Captain and Goalkeeper Ruth Aturo, who has faced Ethiopia previously expressed readiness and promised a good show from the players.

“Ethiopia is a familiar team now and the many times we have met we have recorded mixed results. They beat us home and away in the Olympics qualifiers but we too beat them in the two previous CECAFA meetings. We therefore know them. We call upon Ugandans to give us support wherever they are, we shall get the results we need,” Aturo said.

The second leg will be played in Adis Ababa
on Tuesday October 26 and the winner on aggregate will advance to the next qualification round where they will play the winner between Kenya and South Sudan.

FUFA has a deliberate strategy to take the game to the masses in what is termed as Mass Football. To achieve this, infrastructure is a key component in the FUFA strategic plan for the period 2021-2025.

Several individuals, institutions and Government agencies have of late made efforts to set up football facilities, stadiums, Futsal, 5-aside and 7-aside pitches.

However, FUFA has noticed with concern that there are challenges with the way the facilities are constructed without consideration of the minimum standards.

FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson while addressing the media on Tuesday morning at FUFA House in Mengo, indicated that the Federation will start an initiative to engage different stakeholders on how best to set up football facilities.

‘FUFA appreciates that different individuals and institutions are setting up football facilities across the country. However, we have noted that whereas construction is going on, most of the people behind this are making technical mistakes especially during construction’ noted the FUFA CEO.

‘We wish to call upon such investors to contact FUFA for free technical advice and guidance towards construction of such pitches if they are to host official matches and competitions in future’ added Watson.

The FUFA CEO highlighted some of the basic guidelines that many private stadium owners tend to neglect yet very important.

‘There are basic guidelines that private owners do not consider and emphasise on for instance, direction of the sunlight, emergency exits and measurements for the pitch, technical bench and bounce of the ball among others’

With the aforementioned challenges, FUFA has appealed to different stakeholders to reach out for technical advice. 

6th edition of Airtel FUFA Awards

Launch: Thursday, 21st October, 2021

Venue: Stonehaven Malcolm X Hotel, Kololo

Time: 10AM

Theme: ‘Celebrating Uganda’s Finest Football Personalities’

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) will officially launch this year’s Airtel FUFA Awards Thursday 21^st October 2021.

Running under the theme, ‘Celebrating Uganda’s Finest Football Personalities’ this will be the sixth time that the Airtel FUFA Awards are held.

Ahmed Hussein, the FUFA Communications Director confirmed that the launch will be held this week at Stonehaven Malcolm X Hotel in Kololo.

‘We are delighted that this year’s edition of the Airtel – FUFA Awards will be staged and the launch is this Thursday at Stonehaven Malcolm X Hotel, Kololo. It was unfortunate that we did not have the Awards last year due to COVID-19 but following resumption of football competitions this year, the FUFA Executive Committee found it necessary to have the Awards back’  confirmed Hussein.

At the launch, the nominees for both the Airtel FUFA Male and Female Player of the year categories will be revealed.

‘There are new categories that have been added to spice up the already existing ones over the years. All the other details will be known at the launch’ Hussein indicated.

In 2019, Allan Okello and Juliet Nalukenge won the overall Male and Female accolades that also came with a cash reward of one million shillings and a vehicle as the grand prize to each player.

Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda will for the sixth year headline the list  of sponsors and partners of the coveted awards.

Premier Skills Women’s Football Community coaching course starts at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru

British Council in partnership with FUFA and Soccer Without Boarders(SWB) on Monday flagged off a community coaching course for Women’s Football aimed at spreading the game across the country.

The course which is under the flagship program of British Council called Premier Skills and also an extension support program of the English Premier League was presented by Graham Robinson, head of Premier Skills program at Premier League (via zoom).

FUFA Football Development Director, Ali Mwebe believes this program rhymes with the Federation’s strategy of Mass Football that looks at spreading the game across the country to reach every homestead.

“We are here to open up a 5-day Community coaching course for ladies organized by the British Council under their flagship programme, (the Premier Skills) in conjunction with FUFA and Football Beyond Borders. We are so grateful that such initiatives are coming up and this is in line with our strategy of Mass football which means taking football to every homestead,” Mwebe stated before adding that “having this course means increase in the number of Women involved in football but also having trained coaches that will go back to the community and impart the knowledge picked.”

Officiating as Chief Guest, Louise Ellis, the Deputy High Commissioner at British Council believes this is yet another opportunity to help a girl child this time through football.

“This is such an important programme for us, working with the Premier League supporting and empowering girls with an opportunity to create and learn skills which they can take back to their communities,” she indicated.

“It is important to meet every part of the community and having the refugee communities involved gives them hope through football through social skills, education and health.” Ellis added.

Steve Davies, the Director of Soccer Without Borders in Uganda is optimistic that with such initiatives in place, transformation of communities is easy.

“Football is a game that unites regardless of the difference in background, race and gender. I’m extremely excited that this program has been availed and I have the belief, it can be used to transform communities through football.” He said.

A total of 41 participants are taking part and the counter will climax on Friday.

Participants

1. Everlyne Adeti from Yes Environment Service
2. Doreen Nabwire – Yes Environment Service
3. Victoria Annet – RTP
4. Ashanti Agatha – AUSI FOUNDATION
5. Birungi Betty – Honeric
6. Kasemiire Irene Honeric
7. Nabulobi Mercy – SWB
8. Nampeera Shamim – Jean Ssenunde United
9. Iraacha Joseline – Azteks Soccer
10. Joanne Lunkuse- Uganda Youth Development Link
11. Masika Munoya – Soccer Without Borders
12. Tukamushaba Daphine – Unique sports Academy
13. Adria Jackline – RTP
14. Nandawula Fatuma – Watoto Wasoka
15. Lunkuse- Caroline – MSA
16. Namuli Diana – Tackle Africa
17. Arygmo Alice – Avsi Foundation
18. Nankwanga Shakirah – Azteks Soccer Academy
19. Namatovu Rahibah – UYDEL
20. Providence Molopakwa – Soccer Without Borders
21. Muja Vicky Majok – Right To Plan
22. Kabagane Immaculate – Soccer Without Borders
23. Auria Jackline – RTP
24. Nabiryo Esther – St. Francis
25. Nanyinga Dorcus – Yes Environment Service Busia
26. Nabirye Apofia – UYDEL
27. Tamugwaniza Aminah – Xsuba Sports for development
28. Akuel Mary – Right To Play
29. Nabiryo Esther – St. Francis
30. Ahumuza Collines – UCU
31. Nayebare Anitah – MSA
32. Kemigisha Saudah – Uganda Youth Development Link
33. Mureezero Emilly – G3 Soccer Academy
34. Kitimbo Fahaby – Soccer Without Borders
35. Nantume Sharifah – Edgars Youth Programme
36. Nakagwa Florence – UYDEL
37. Kiden Annet – Right To Play
38. Ejotaa Samira – Right To Play
39. Mukisa Desire – Incredible Sports Hub
40. Akao Ruth – Muyengo Soccer Academy
41. Owomugisha Pauline – Mbarara Sports Academy

Coaches instructors

1. Steven Bampigga
2. Willis Muwanguzi
3. Christopher Mboowa
4. Agnes Mutonyi
5. Slyivia Achani
6. Hassan Kebba

British Council Officials

1. Louise Ellis, Deputy High Commissioner British
2. Steve Davies, Uganda Director Soccer Without Borders
3. Chilufya Besa, Country Director British Council Uganda
4. Graham Robinson, Premier League head coach, Premier skills program

Spike Lee once said, “If you have a talented family, you should be shot if you don’t use them.” For shot stopper and skipper Ruth Aturo, hailing from a family that has deep footballing roots gave her a basis to carry on the legacy.

The goalkeeper who currently plies her trade with UCU Lady Cardinals FC and Crested Cranes now captain of the national team, has been the first choice since 2016.

Aturo’s moment came in the Crested Cranes first international friendly against Kenya Harambe starlets in July 2016 in Kisumu.

She had travelled as a second choice to Fatuma Matovu, but the later was given matching orders after fouling an opponent in her area and when Aturo was called in to wear the gloves, she has not looked back.

She has been a prominent figure in the Crested Cranes set up and in 2018, she won two awards as goalkeeper of the tournament awards both CECAFA and COSAFA where Uganda finished second and third respectively.

Born 25 years ago to Ben Ocharo and Grace Itwau of Atatai Village in Asuret Sub County in Soroti district, Aturo says goalkeeping is a family thing, starting from grandfather Nicodemus Angauu (RIP) who was a renown shot stopper in Soroti.

Aturo, who is currently in camp with the rest of the team, preparing for the Africa Women Cup of Nations Qualifiers against Ethiopia on Wednesday at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende, had a one on one interview with FUFA media and below are the excerpts

Q-How do you feel having served on the national team for this time?

A-I feel good to serve as the national team first choice goal keeper for all the times I have been there.

Q-What does it mean to you wearing the national team colours and the arm band?

A-It means a lot to me and my family because being picked among the many Ugandans who play football to be the one to represent all those Ugandans and above all lead the chosen few like me as their captain, is not something easy rather it’s a blessing from God.

Q-When did you start playing football?

A-I started playing football in 2009. It all started as a leisure thing with my brothers (Egalu Stephen, Erangu John, Epwonu Samuel and sister Achibo Mary) but later got serious. I later on joined some outreach ministry called Divine Stars in Soroti and off I started the journey.

Q-How did you find yourself in the goalposts?

A-No, my position on the pitch as a goal keeper is not by accident but rather a family talent because my late grandfather (Nicodemus Angauu-RIP) was one of the best goalkeepers in Soroti.

Q-What do you talk about the game ahead against Ethiopia

A-The game ahead against Ethiopia will not be an easy game because both teams will need to qualify but we are more ready and have got the necessary guidance from our coaches.

Q- What should Ugandans expect of you and the team in this campaign?

A-Ugandans should have hope and trust in us that we can make it because we the players we are not only looking at qualifying to the next level but also reaching our maiden AWCON. We want to keep doing well.

Q-Where do you think the Ethiopians are weak and strong?

A-They are a good team but they are slow on defending counter attacks. They are very good in the first half but then slowdown in the second half. But they are very good and comfortable on the ball when you allow them.

Who is Aturo?

Name -Ruth Aturo

Date of birth – 19th/07/1995

Place of birth –Atatai, Soroti district

Parents- Ben Ocharo and Grace Itwau

Schools attended – Soroti SS, Kawempe Muslim SS and Uganda Christian University (UCU)

Role Models-Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns and David De Gea (Man United FC)

Best dish-Posho and beans, Chicken and Karo and Rice

Hobbies-Playing football and listening to music

The Crested Cranes have on Sunday relocated their training camp to Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi, after five days of intensive training at FUFA Technical Centre,Njeru.

The five Days climaxed with a single morning session today, that was delayed by a heavy morning downpour before making the trip to Kampala.

Head Coach George Lutalo, assisted by Edward Kaziba and James Magala as Goalkeeping Coach, are taking the team through Crested Cranes shift from FUFA Technical Centre to Cranes Paradise Hotelpreparations ahead of the Africa Women Cup of Nationns (AWCON) Qualifier against Ethiopia on Wednesday at St Mary’s stadium.

Lutalo summed the five intensive days as ‘encouraging response’ by the players who are majority a unitary team from the recently concluded COSAFA in addition to a U20 unit of 11.

‘Our five days here have been good. The players’ response has been encouraging and as we leave here to continue preparations in Kampala, we hope for the best results on Wednesday,” Lutalo said.

Uganda takes on Ethiopia in the first leg of the AWCON qualifier in Uganda on Wednesday before the two sides meet in the second leg in Bahir Dar on Tuesday October 26.

The winner from the two legs will take on either Kenya or south Sudan in the next and last round of the Qualifiers.

Crested Cranes entered day four of residential training on Saturday ahead of the 2022 AWCON qualifier against Ethiopia on Wednesday at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende.

The second leg will be played on October 26 in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia and the winner on aggregate , will qualify to meet the winner between Kenya and South Sudan in the next and final round.

The 30 players that are undergoing the guidance of head coach George Lutalo, are majorly a collection of the team that took part in the 2021 COSAFA championship and the U-20 team that eliminated Kenya in the FIFA Women World Cup 2022 Qualifiers.

As days go by and the awaited day of the first leg in Uganda closes in, coach George Lutalo is impressed by the improvement in the players’ response to the needed levels against the regional opponents and also the fact that there have been no injuries recorded so far in the four consecutive days of hard work.

The players themselves feel greatly improved and ready for the game as some of them reacted after the Saturday training session.

Laki Otandeka-Striker (New Jersey Copa FC, USA)

“As a team I feel Uganda has a chance of beating Ethiopia. I know in the past meetings we have won and we have lost, but this team is more energized, it has more talent than the previous teams not to say that they were bad but I feel like this set of girls that I have been training with are special and I think we really have a great chance of winning as long as we put the ball in the back of the net. Uganda’s advantage will be our pace I think we are a faster team after watching some videos of the past games. We have a greater advantage of having quicker players as well as having a quick central midfield presence and our goal keeper is far stronger than Ethiopia’s so just hoping that the strikers and the attacking midfielders can finish the job the moment we get the opportunity upfront.”

Sandra Nabweteme-Striker (Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar, Iceland)

“Me I think like we have practiced a lot to get the result that we need on Wednesday, we are going to work hard to see that we get what we need because we need a win to go to Ethiopia with, such that even there, we work hard to also get the result to qualify to the next round. We are an organized team if we go in like focusing on what we nee d and what the coaches tell us to do and our focus will get us the results over Ethiopia.”

Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC)

“The team is in good condition because our participation is COSAFA helped usa s a team to gain fitness and team work and its going to help us win Ethiopia. Right now, our coaches are concentrating so much on correcting our mistakes that we made in South Africa which has boosted our concentration and focus and is going to help us a lot win the game.”

Ruth Aturo-Goal keeper and captain (UCU Lady Cardinals FC)

“We had a very good challenge in SA but we have picked something important from that and we have to thank the federation for allowing us the opportunity that has helped us come back with improved fitness and preparing for the qualifier against Ethiopia. Ethiopia is a good team yes, but my team is better given that the last game we played against them in CECAFA we beat them 1-0. However much they are preparing for us, we are ready for them because we have had a good guidance from our coaches during trainings and the players are really motivated. I believe we shall produce we shall overcome them and go through to the next round.”

The Uganda Crested Cranes head coach George Lutalo has expressed his optimism of the current response of the players to mastering the defending and attacking techniques, will have a lot to help the team run past fancied Ethiopia in the coming AWCON qualifier.

The team of 29 layers currently under intensive training under Lutalo, will play against the Ethiopians in the first leg of the campaign at St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday October 20 before the return leg in Bahir Dar on October 26.

Crested Cranes had just returned from the concluded COSAFA event in South Africa where they finished outside the accolade bracket before returning for a couple of days’ break and joined residential camp, enetered day three of training at FUFA Techical center Njeru and Lutalo is impressed by the response of the players since.

“The training is going one well and their response to learning more is also good. I am hopeful that from this group of players we shall have the best results out of the Ethiopia game on Wednesday,” Lutalo said after Friday morning training session.

Lutalo has beefed up the COSAFA side with some of the U-20 youngster players including Margret Kunihira, Fauzia Najjemba, Sumaya Komuntale, Juliet Nalukenge, among others that recently eliminated Kenya with a 10-3 first round aggregate score.

The players had a matches review session on Thursday evening, where the clips of the past matches between Uganda and Ethiopia were watched.

GoalKeepers

Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves FC), Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC)

Defenders

Viola Namuddu (Makerere University WFC), Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Bira Nadunga (Olila High School WFC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sumaya Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), Phoebe Banura (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC),

Midfielders

Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Rhoda Nanziri (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sheebah Zalwango (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC), Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC), Resty Kobusobozi (Tooro Queens FC), Riticia Nabbosa (Lady Doves FC), Joan Nabirye (Vihiga Queens FC), Shakilah Nyinagahilwa (Kawempe Moslem), Nandago Hadijah (Kawempe Moslem)

Forwards

Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Sharon Naddunga (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Resty Nanziri (Kampala Queens FC), Sandra Nabweteme (Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar, Iceland), Laki Otandeka (New Jersey Copa FC, USA), Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens FC), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Spencer Nakacwa (Lady Doves FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon LFC-Syprus)

Officials
Head Coach – George Lutalo
Assistant Coach – Edward Kaziba
Goalkeeping Coach- James Magala

Team Coordinator- Paul Ssali
Team Doctor- Mable Kabatalindwa
Equipment Manager – Prossy Nalwadda
Media Officer- Aloysius Byamukama

The Uganda Women Senior Team (Crested Cranes) entered day two of the residential training today Thursday at FUFA Technical center Njeru, ahead of the 2022 AWCON qualifier against Ethiopia.

The team is being handled by Head Coach George Lutalo, assisted by Edward Kaziba (assistant coach) and James Magala (goal keeping coach).

The initial 27 summoned players were beefed up by the U20 trio striker Juliet Nalukenge and midfielders Shakilah Nyinagahirwa and Hadijjah Nandago to make a total of 30 players.

 “Today was our second day of training session, it has been good, the spirit of the players has been good and promising, and we have been trying to improve on our endurance and actually concentrating on our final third to see that we improve on our finishing and the entire response of the players has been good. We have hope that we shall perform well in this coming game,” Lutalo said.

Uganda will face Ethiopia at the second qualifying phase with the first leg slated for 20th October 2021 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The return leg will then be played on October 26 in Bahir Dar and the winner on aggregate from the two legs, will face either South Sudan or Kenya at the final qualification hurdle.

Players in Camp

Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves FC), Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC)

Defenders

Viola Namuddu (Makerere University WFC), Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Bira Nadunga (Olila High School WFC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sumaya Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), Phoebe Banura (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC),

Midfielders

Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Rhoda Nanziri (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sheebah Zalwango (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC), Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC), Resty Kobusobozi (Tooro Queens FC), Riticia Nabbosa (Lady Doves FC), Joan Nabirye (Vihiga Queens FC), Shakilah Nyinagahilwa (Kawempe Muslim), Nandago Hadijah (Kawempe Muslim)

Forwards

Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Sharon Naddunga (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Resty Nanziri (Kampala Queens FC), Sandra Nabweteme (Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar, Iceland), Laki Otandeka (New Jersey Copa FC, USA), Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens FC), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Spencer Nakacwa (Lady Doves FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon LFC-Syprus)

Officials
Head Coach – George Lutalo
Assistant Coach – Edward Kaziba
Goalkeeping Coach- James Magala

Team Coordinator- Paul Ssali
Team Doctor- Mable Kabatalindwa
Equipment Manager – Prossy Nalwadda
Media Officer- Aloysius Byamukama

Crested Cranes head coach George Lutalo has summoned a provisional squad of 27 players to start preparations ahead of the forthcoming 2022 Africa Women Cup of Nations Qualifiers.

Uganda will face Ethiopia at the second qualifying phase with the first leg slated for 20th October 2021 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The return leg will then come six days later in Bahir Dar with the winner on aggregate facing either South Sudan or Kenya at the final qualification hurdle.

The squad named is largely a composition of the team that played at the just concluded COSAFA Women’s Championship where Uganda featured as a guest team.

Of the 20 players that travelled to South Africa, 17 have returned.

Resty Kobusobozi and Rhoda Nanziri who were part of the provisional squad but didn’t make the final squad are also back.

Striker Fazila Ikwaput who was ruled out of the COSAFA Women’s Championship through injury is also back after recovering.

The rest of the other players (8) have been promoted from the U20 Women’s National Team that eliminated Kenya from the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers over the weekend.

Besides Fauzia Najjemba, Margaret Kunihira and Shamirah Nalugya who have previously played at the senior level, the rest of the other players from the U20 team are earning their first call.

These include Daphine Nyayenga, Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Bira Nadunga and Aisha Nantongo.

The team will enter camp on Tuesday at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi and then transfer to FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru the following day.

Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers

Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves FC), Daphine Nyayenga(Lady Doves FC)

Defenders

Viola Namuddu (Makerere University WFC), Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Bira Nadunga (Olila High School WFC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sumaya Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), Phoebe Banura (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC),

Midfielders

Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Rhoda Nanziri (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Sheebah Zalwango (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC), Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC), Resty Kobusobozi (Tooro Queens FC), Riticia Nabbosa (Lady Doves FC), Joan Nabirye (Vihiga Queens FC)

Forwards

Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Sharon Naddunga (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Resty Nanziri (Kampala Queens FC), Sandra Nabweteme (Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar, Iceland), Laki Otandeka (New Jersey Copa FC, USA), Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens FC), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Spencer Nakacwa (Lady Doves FC), Fazila Ikwaput (Lady Doves FC)

Officials
Head Coach – George Lutalo
Assistant Coach – Edward Kaziba
Goalkeeping Coach- James Magala

Team Coordinator- Paul Ssali

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team Head Coach, Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi has named the team that will start against Kenya in the return leg of the first round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 2022 Qualifiers.

The two teams face off this Friday evening at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The coach has maintained the same team that started in the 7-2 win in Nairobi two weeks ago.

Daphine Nyayenga maintains her slot in goal with Samalie Nakacwa and Sumaya Komuntale playing as the right and left backs respectively.

The Centre back pairing will still have Bira Nadunga and Aisha Nantongo.

The midfield trio will have Shakira Nyinagahirwa as the holding midfielder with Shamira Nalugya and Hadijah Nandago playing in the attacking areas.

The forward line has striker Juliet Nalukenge who netted a brace in Kenya as the target point with Captain Fauzia Najjemba offering support from the left while Margret Kunihira will play as a right winger.

Uganda U20 Starting XI

Daphine Nyayenga(GK), Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Bira Nadunga, Aisha Nantongo, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Shamira Nalugya, Hadijah Nandago, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba, Margret Kunihira

Substitutes

Joan Namusisi (GK), Saidah Namwanje (GK), Winnie Kwatulira, Grace Aluka, Harima Kanyago, Kevin Nakacwa, Eva Nagayi, Catherine Nagadya, Zaitun Namaganda, Zainah Nandede, Jowelia Nagadya