Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM)
NO FANS ALLOWED IN THE STADIUM DUE TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS
*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA official social media platforms & UBC TV
Eastern region select head coach Godfrey “Toldo” Awachango has named 22 players to face Uganda Cranes in the Regional tour match to be played this Saturday in Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The match set to give Uganda Cranes build up match in the preparations for Rwanda world cup qualifier away and home match scheduled for 7th and 10th October 2021 respectively.
After 3 days training the Eastern select team is playing Mbale Select for Build up friendly match on Thursday at the Mbale Municipal stadium.
The match will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and across the all the official FUFA social media platforms.
Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel Uganda and partner Nile Breweries Limited are the main funders of the Uganda Cranes’ regional tours.
Eastern Region Team:
Goalkeepers: Edward Kasibante (Kataka FC), Stephen Mukamba (Mbale Heroes) and Ochepa Wilson (Sky sports fc)
Defenders:- Stephen Namisi (Kataka), Ibrahim Pengere,(Admin), Peter Lusimbula Captain- (Kataka), Robert Edmond Otim (Admin), Tiff Kahandi (Kataka), Ismail Saadi (Busia young)
Midfielders: Ivan Jakuma (Sky Sports), Francis Odong (Kataka), Bosco Lunyoro, (Mbale Heroes), Raymond Othieno (Admin), Zanuni Mugoya (Admin), Ousama Kayemba (Kataka Academy), Fahadi (Aniko, Busia young ),Bonefansio Chediko (Busia young), Jack Obwana (Mbale Heroes)
Forwards: Lawrence Oloboro (Kataka), Edmond Wamboka (Mbale Heroes), Emmanuel Mukisa (Kataka) and Muhamundu Byafula (Namusula FC)
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Keneth Semakula (SC Villa), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Vianney Sekajugo (URA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police)
Forwards: Cromwell Rwothomio (URA), Steven Desse Mukwala (URA), Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA)
Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM)
*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA official social media platforms & UBC TV
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has named the team to face the Eastern region select in regional tours duel at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The team has 25 players (majorly from URA and KCCA Football Clubs). There are also players from SC Villa, Police, UPDF, Soltilo Bright Stars and Wakiso Giants.
‘This is the commencement of the preparations for the Rwanda World Cup Qualifier matches (away on 7th October and at home on 10th October 2021)’ Micho disclosed.
The team will enter camp on Thursday, 23rd September 2021 at the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi and depart for Mbale on Friday morning ahead of the match slated for Saturday, 25th September 2021 at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The match will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and across the all the official FUFA social media platforms.
Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel Uganda and partner Nile Breweries Limited are the main funders of the Uganda Cranes’ regional tours.
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Keneth Semakula (SC Villa), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Vianney Sekajugo (URA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police)
Forwards: Cromwell Rwothomio (URA), Steven Desse Mukwala (URA), Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA)
2nd Semi-final: Express Vs BUL (23rd September 2021) – FUFA Technical Center, Njeru (3:30 PM)
Vipers Sports Club progressed to the final of the 2021 Stanbic Uganda Cup, that will be played on Sunday, 26th September at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru.
This followed a 2-0 victory in the opening semi-final against Police at the same venue, behind closed doors.
A goal in each half forward Ceaser Manzoki gave the 2016 Stanbic Uganda Cup winners the deserved win.
Vipers’ players in celebrations
Manzoki scored the opener after 20 minutes, capitalizing on a mistake by defender Hassan Muhamood.
He scored the second after 52 minutes, thanks to a well laid pass by midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga.
Police had some lively moment with the introduction Brian Muruli Mayanja in the final stanza.
Edward Kiryowa in action against Vipers
Siraje Sentamu and Tonny Mawejje had a physical midfield battle
Midfielder and captain Tonny Mawejje had an effort kiss the wood-work as they pressed forward for a goal that never came.
Vipers’ substitute Dan Sserunkuma also had a chance missed when he had a shot off the cross bar.
Vipers will now wait for Thursday’s second semi-final between Express and Jinja based BUL to know their opponent in the final.
This will be Vipers’ fifth final of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
The final shall be played on Sunday, 26th September 2021 at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru.
Vipers Sports Club XI Vs PolicePolice FC XI Vs VipersMatch officials with the team captains prior to kick offPolice head coach Abdallah Mubiru shares a light moment with Vipers’ counterpart Roberto Oliveira moments before kick off
An action packed weekend it was for a number of Ugandan players in the diaspora over the weekend but do you know how they fared?
Israel
William Kizito Luwagga made his first start for his new club Hapoel Nof HaGalil as they beat Ashdod FC 2-0 in the Israeli Premier League.
Luwagga was withdrawn in the 55th minute for Kevaughn Frater while on the other hand Fahad Bayo and Timothy Awany played full-time for Ashdod.
Luwagga’s new club now tops the Israeli Premier League table despite being newcomers in the league while Ashdod FC, home to Fahad Bayo and Timothy Awany sit bottom of the league table.
Timothy Awany in action against William Luwagga Kizito
Cyprus
Striker Juliet Nalukenge scored twice as Apollon Ladies beat Karmiotissa Women 5-1 in a friendly game.
Nalukenge was on target in the 29th and 79th minutes.
Juliet Nalukenge in action for Apollon Ladies
Sweden
Defender Ronald Mukiibi got off the bench and later got withdrawn as his side Ostersunds FK won 3-1 against Elfsborg in the Swedish topflight league on Sunday.
Mukiibi was introduced for Samuel Mensah who was injured in the 58th minute before he was also withdrawn in the 76th minute for Marco Weymans.
His teammate Isaac Sewankambo played full-time and made an assist for the second goal in the 39th minute before he was booked for time wasting in the 83rd minute.
Forward Alexis Bbakka was an unused substitute for Umea FC who won 1-0 against IFK Lulea in the third tier division on Saturday.
Tusker players celebrate Deogracious Ojok’s goal
CAF Champions League
Striker Deogracious Ojok scored on his debut as Tusker beat Djibouti’s Arta Solar7 3-0 in Nairobi.
The former BUL FC striker scored in 76th minute.
Ugandan goalkeeper Sulait Luyima was in goal for the losing side Arta Solar7.
Khalid Aucho was not part of the Young Africans team that lost 1-0 to Rivers United in Nigeria and got knocked out having lost the first leg with the same scoreline.
Goalkeeper Ali Kimera and forward Nicholas Kagaba played for Mogadishu City Club and lost 2-1 to APR FC in Kigali. Their teammate Stephen Ategeka was on the bench.
CAF Confederation Cup
Goalkeeper Mathias Kigonya and Nicholas Wadada played full-time for Azam FC and won 1-0 against Somalia’s Horseed FC in Dar es Salaam.
Shafik Batambuze played full-time while Hashim Sempala didn’t feature as their Zambian side Kabwe Warriors lost 2-1 to Madagascar’s CFFA FC and got knocked out.
Goalkeeper Cleo Ssetuba and striker Mathew Odong Tayo played for Tanzania’s Biashara United and won 2-0 against Djibouti side Dikhil FC.
Midfielder Lawrence Ndugga was an unused substitute for Botswana side Orapa United who won 5-3 on penalties against Gabon’s AS Mangasport after another goal-less draw.
Goalkeeper Yasin Mugabi was in goal and kept a clean sheet as Zambia’s Red Arrows played out a goalless draw with Young Buffaloes of Eswatini. Mugabi and teammates progressed to the next round with a 2-1 aggregate.
South Africa
Dennis Onyango was in goal and kept his third straight clean sheet as Mamelodi Sundowns beat TS Galaxy 3-0 in the DStv Premiership.
Moses Waiswa played 73 minutes in Supersport United’s 3-0 win over Moroka Swallows. He was replaced by Kudakwashe Mahachi.
Goalkeeper Ismail Watenga was in goal as his Chippa United lost 3-1 to Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
Czech Republic
Left back Isaac Muleme was not part of the Viktoria Zizkov team that lost 2-1 to FC Brno in the Czech Republic second tier on Sunday night.
Tanzania/DR Congo
Both Taddeo Lwanga and Joseph Ochaya started for Simba SC and TP Mazembe in a friendly match played in Dar es Salaam in the Simba Day Celebrations. TP Mazembe won 1-0.
USA
Striker Edward Kizza was an unused substitute as his New England Revolution drew 1-1 with Columbus Crew in the Major League Soccer.
Mustafa Kizza was also an unused substitute as CF Montreal won 2-0 against Chicago Fire on Sunday night.
Mike Azira came off the bench as his New Mexico United team won 2-1 against Real Monarchs SLC in the second tier of USL Championship.
Yudaya Nakayanze started while Tracy Jones Akiror came off the bench as their side Lindsey Wilson lost 2-0 to George Gwinnett on Saturday night.
Spain
David Owori didn’t play for CF Velez as they drew 0-0 with Merida in the Spanish fourth tier.
Just like Owori, left back Victor Matovu didn’t play for Real Oviedo B who beat Langreo II 6-1 in the Spanish fourth tier on Sunday.
Germany
Herbert Bockhorn came off the bench in the 57th minute to replace Konstantinos Stafylidis as Vfl Bochum lost miserably 7-0 to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Saturday.
Portugal
Alex Kakuba made his debut for his new club Louletano DC and won 2-1 against Esperancà de Lagos in the Portuguese fourth tier on Saturday.
Edrisa Lubega (injured) was not part of the Estrela da Amadora team that drew 2-2 with Academica in Portuguese second tier Segunda Liga.
Romania
Newly signed striker Mahad Kayondo did not feature for CSM Deva who lost 2-0 to CSM Resita in the Romanian third tier league.
Scotland
Bevis Mugabi put up a man of the match performance for his side Motherwell FC as they held champions Rangers to a 1-1 draw at the Ibrox on Sunday.
Denmark
Midfielder Moses Opondo came off the bench in the 77th as his club OB Odense lost 2-0 to AaB Alborg in the Danish Superligaen.
Midfielder Robert Kakeeto played 29 minutes for Skive IK who lost 4-1 to AB Copenhagen in the Danish third tier league.
Kakeeto, who is on loan from AaB Alborg, got booked in the 14th minute before he was substituted off for Nicolas Dohn in the 29th minute.
England
Striker Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru came off the bench for Jonathan Howson in the 87th minute as his Middlesbrough team lost 1-0 to Blackpool in the Championship.
Youngster Nathan Odokonyero scored a goal in the 59th minute and registered an assist as his club Bognor Regis drew 2-2 with Potters Bar Town in the English Isthmian League on Saturday.
Nathan Odokonyero in action against Potters Bar Town
Compiled by Ronnie Lusulire, who is also part of the ‘Tugukyangira Bunayira’ programe on 102.1 FUFA Fm every Tuesday from 10pm – MidNight
CAF Champions League (Preliminary Round): Al Merrikh (Sudan) 1-0 Express (Uganda)
*Express bowed out on away goal’s rule after 2-2 aggregate
CAF Confederation Cup (Preliminary Round): Ethiopian Coffee (Ethiopia) 1-3 URA (Uganda)
*URA qualified to the first round after 5-2 aggregate victory
It was a mixture of joy and agony as the Ugandan representatives in the CAF club competitions completed their preliminary round stage matches.
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club advanced to the CAF Confederation Cup first round. There were mixed fortunes for Express FC who played gallantly over two legs but missed going beyond the opening stage.
URA Fc convincingly overcame Ethiopian Coffee 3-1 during the return leg played at the Bahir Dar International Stadium on Sunday, 19th September 2021.
URA XI Vs Ethiopian Coffee at Bahir Dar International Stadium (Credit: URA FC Media)
Cromwel Rwothomio, Ashraf Mandela and captain Shafik Kuchi Kagimu scored the goals for Sam Timbe’s coached side.
Asrat Tunjo’s consolation was not enough as URA FC progressed 5-2 on aggregate to book a first round berth against Egypt’s Al Masry.
Meanwhile, at the Al-Ubayyid Stadium – Shikan Castle in Obeid city, Express FC lost 1-0 to Al Merrikh to bow out of the CAF Champions League on away goal’s rule after a 2 all aggregate over the two legs.
Express XI Vs Al Merrikh (Credit: Express FC Media)
Ahmed Hamid scored for Al Merrikh in the 73rd minute of the match played under floodlights. Al Merrikh will now face Zambia’s Zanaco.
These two Ugandan clubs are expected back home by Monday, 20th September 2021 with Express FC set to play BUL FC in the Semifinals of the Stanbic Uganda cup on Thursday at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The 8th FUFA Super League Limited (FSLL) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was successfully convened at the Ridar Hotel in Seeta, Mukono District on Saturday, 18th September 2021.
FUFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Edgar Watson Suubi graced the AGM as chief guest.
Other FUFA officials in attendance were third vice president Owek. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, FUFA Executive Committee member Rogers Byamukama, FUFA Deputy CEO’s Decolas Kiiza Hantaali and Humphrey Mandu Watenga, FUFA Competitions director Aisha Nalule as well as FUFA Secretariat staff Swalley Kenyi and Sadam Bulega.
Arinaitwe Rugyendo (Board chairman) chaired the AGM.
Arinatitwe Rugyendo, Chairman of the Board FSLL
David Sserebe Bbunya (vice chairman), Fredrick Guy Kawuma (Member), Humphrey Mandu Watenga (Member), Bernard Bampaire Bainamani (CEO, Uganda Premier League), Paul Kabaikaramu (league manager), Gordon Roy Mundeyi (Head marketing and communications), Milly Nansubuga (Accountant), Hamdan Kaliitwe (Finance and Administrative officer), Ronnie Kakooza (league officer), Eric Eron Owori (Statistician) and Yusufu Mahadi Kivumbi (Transport officer) attended.
Bernard Bainamani consults with Arinaitwe RugyendoStarTimes Uganda Premier League manager Paul Kabaikaramu with URA FC acting CEO Allan MunaabaPamela Ankunda, Board member at Express Football Club
The StarTimes Uganda Premier League clubs in attendance were URA, Soltilo Bright Stars, KCCA, Vipers, BUL, Onduparaka, Express, Wakiso Giants, UPDF, Arua Hill, Gaddafi, Tooro United and Busoga United.
Those absent were; Sports Club Villa, Police and Mbarara City.
L-R: Colonel John Mark Ssemanda, Edgar Watson, Michael Wandera and Humprehrey Mandu Watenga
Sponsors and prospective partners led by StarTimes Uganda, Uganda Breweries Limited, MTN and the Ministry of Health also attended.
Milly Nansubuga, UPL Accountant
The same assembly approved the activity report and the annual budget of Shs. 2,676,982,813 for the season 2021-2022 were also approved and passed.
Also, the three promoted clubs; Tooro United, Arua Hill and Gaddafi were also officially admitted to the family of FSLL.
Applause from the representatives of the three newly admitted clubs to the FSLLDecolas Kiiza Hantali, FUFA Deputy CEO – FootballL-R: Arinaitwe Ruygendo, Rogers Byamukama and Humphrey Mandu WatengaRonnie Mutebi, Soltilo Bright Stars Football Club chairmanGeorge William Mulindwa, Vipers SC ChairmanColonel John Mark Ssemanda (UPDF FC Chairman)BUL FC CEO Ahmed Kongola (left) with Busoga United chairman Hassan Mugerwa Takoowa
Quotes:
A stable and professional league attracts sponsors. This is what we need. I thank the leadership of FUFA for the conducive environment for football to run.
Arinaitwe Rugyendo, FSLL Board Chairman
I congratulate the 16 clubs that took part in the 2020-21 StarTimes Uganda Premier League. There is urgent need to standardize and regularize the payment of players. It is becoming a cancer that clubs forfeit payments to players. We need to maintain the players payments with at least a bare minimum salary. Clubs also need to wake up and follow the club licensing procedure. There is also a concern of stadia for our clubs which needs to be addressed as soon as possible with all stakeholders joining hands.
Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi
Owek. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, third Vice President
The history of such an engagement is known and well documented. I appreciate the administration of FUFA President Moses Magogo and the executive for making such happen. The FUFA executive supervises the football matters. I thank the FSLL stakeholders and fraternity. FUFA will continue to engage the clubs. The current policy at FUFA is now more of engagement than previously when circulars were just given. The members should enhance professionalism at all times. FUFA received the strategic plan from the FSLL and will soon address it.
Edgar Watson, FUFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson Suubi
There is need to wholesomely embrace massive vaccination as we plan for the return of football fans.
Anisha Muhoozi, KCCA FC Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
StarTimes Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs are requested to consider the element of rules of regulations very seriously. It is an on-going process and all clubs should respond amicably.
Hajjati Aisha Nalule (FUFA Competitions Director)
Hajjati Aisha Nalule, FUFA Competitions DirectorL-R: Edgar Watson, Bernard Bainamani, Arinatiwe Rugyendo and Owek. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi on the high table
Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) acquired land measuring to one acre in Buliisa district to construct a beach soccer facility.
The donation came from Kisansya Primary school in Buliisa Town council, Buliisa District.
UBSA chairman Deo Mutabazi graced the inspection of the site at Kisansya primary School and expressed his appreciation for the offer.
Ground breaking ceremony at Kisansya Primary school in Buliisa Town council
‘This shows that there is a great improvement of the game and a healthy relationship with all football stakeholders in Uganda. I thank Kitara Region for bearing a vision to have Beach soccer on region level as it is in FUFA president’ manifesto in the new term of office’ Mutabazi expressed.
L-R: Bashir Mutyaba, Deo Mutabazi and Ali Mwebe
The Mayor Buliisa Town council, Muliisa Epafurah was among the dignitaries who graced the official hand over.
‘I am great full that this project is here. We shall offer the necessary support to this project and make it a reality. There many opportunities that come along with sports and football ball in particular’ Muliisa stated.
Epafurah Muliisa, Mayor Buliisa Town Council
Other UBSA officials in attendance were Ali Mwebe (FUFA Football Director) Bashir Mutyaba (UBSA technical Director), Tonny Ssebagala ( UBSA Protocol/Events Manager) Mutebi Julius (UBSA Communication/Marketing Director).
Kitara region officials Diana Kaboha (Kitara Region FUFA women delegate), Ayebale James (Chairman Kitara Region football association), Kabwimukya George, Alinde Harunah (Hoima sports officer), Businge Favour Gilbert (UBSA co-ordinator Kitara Region) also attended.
Ali Mwebe in the ground breaking ceremonyKisansya Primary School poster
The donation follows other generous offers to FUFA, following land at Kadiba in Mengo provided by the Church of Uganda, Lugazi (Buganda Kingdom) and by the Rujumba family along Kampala – Hoima road.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) continues to spread the network in the sponsorship and marketing docket.
On Wednesday, 15th September 2021, FUFA officially signed a memorandum of understanding in which Nivana Packaged Drinking Water will become the Official Water partner to FUFA.
This happened at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala during a well attended press conference.
Nivana Packaged Drinking Water is one of the products of Crown Beverages Limited (CBL), also the bottlers of Pepsi Cola, Mirinda, Mountain Dew, Evervess as well as Sting Energy Drink.
The Ushs. 500 million partnership announcement was made and will cover all the Uganda National Teams.
L-R: Ernest Ssentongo (Brand Manager Nivana), Timothy Luzinda (Head of Marketing Crown Beverages Ltd), Hon. Moses Magogo and Rogers Byamukama drinking the Nivana Water
The launch was graced by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Rogers Byamukama (FUFA Executive Committee), Esther Musoke (FUFA Marketing Director), Timothy Luzinda Head of Marketing Crown Beverages Ltd, Ernest Ssentongo, Brand Manager Nivana and Allen Ssempa Corporate Communications Manager Crown Beverages Ltd.
Eng. Magogo lauded Crown Beverages Limited (CBL) for its continuous support towards Ugandan sports, noting that the company was the first partner of beach soccer when the game was still in its infancy stage.
‘Nivana has always been a partner of the association, this step is however key in formalizing the existing relationship and in setting terms of agreement for both of us.’ Eng. Magogo noted.
FUFA President Eng. Hon. Moses Magogo shows off the Nivana Packaged Drinking Water
He added that FUFA has partners from different industries and sectors, however, the one with Nivana is one of a kind as it provides all the national teams with a unique product that is relevant for their health daily. ‘As the old saying goes, Water is Life, and what Nivana is doing – giving life to players.’.
Rogers Byamukama, FUFA Executive Committee member remarked; ‘Water is a very important ingredient in the life of an athlete. It has been a huge cost for the federation to ensure that footballers are well hydrated. We are humbled to have such a partner to provide water. And not only water, but, also cash. I am excited that you are coming on board. I always take Nivana Water personally and those who like flavors, here you go.’
Speaking at the ceremony, Timothy Luzinda, the Head of Marketing Crown Beverages Limited said that, as a Ugandan brand, Crown Beverages takes pride in being involved in activities and initiatives that speak directly to the passion points of its customers, like sports, entertainment, music among others.
Ernest Ssentongo (Brand Manager Nivana), Timothy Luzinda (Head of Marketing Crown Beverages Ltd), Hon. Moses Magogo and Rogers Byamukama hold the national team home jersey
“Ugandan football is at the heart of all Ugandans whether or not they are avid sports lovers. Additionally, for a long time now, we have been at the forefront of supporting Ugandan football as and when need arose,” Luzinda observed.
“Today however, we go a step further in legitimizing our support through a long-term partnership with FUFA, that will see our Nivana brand become the official refreshment partner for the next three years,” he noted adding that this gesture shows CBL’s appreciation of the partnership with FUFA and the joint desire to see Ugandan football prosper.
This partnership is a fulfilment of CBL’s promise to build a strong partnership with FUFA, for the good of Ugandan football as it assures all the national teams under FUFA’s portfolio of Nivana water as refreshment for training sessions and for all games, as well as funds for logistics purposes.
The teams under FUFA, and who will benefit from the partnership with Nivana include Uganda Cranes, the Crested Cranes (Women’s National Team), Hippos (Boys under 23 Years), Kobs (Boys under 17 Years), Cubs (Boys Under 15 Years) and Sand Cranes (Beach Soccer National Team).
Final: 26th September 2021 – At FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has confirmed important details ahead of the 2021 Stanbic Uganda Cup semi-finals and final at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru.
FUFA Competitions Director Hajjati Aisha Nalule confirmed the key developments through a memo to the clubs’ Chief Executive Officers (CEO).
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajjati Aisha Nalule
*Licenses for the 2020-2021 season will be considered and all the technical team should have bench permits.
*FUFA will take care of the COVID-19 tests for all the 20 players and 5 officials per club. All clubs will be tested at their respective venues. The other officials (organizing committee) and referees will also be tested by FUFA
*The players and officials’ list should be submitted to the FUFA Competitions Department latest Friday, 17th September 2021.
*Vipers and Police will be tested on Sunday, 19th September 2021 at 8 AM
*Express and BUL will be tested on Monday, 20th September 2021 at 8 AM.
*The two clubs that proceed to the finals will be required to provide their jerseys for branding and will be refunded Shs. 1,700,000/=.
CAF Champions League (Preliminary Round, 1st Leg): Express (Uganda) 2-1 Al Merrikh (Sudan)
CAF Confederation Cup (Preliminary Round, 1st Leg): URA (Uganda) 2-1 Ethiopian Bunna (Ethiopia)
Uganda’s representatives in the CAF inter-clubs competitions Express and Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) started their respective journeys with broad smiles following identical 2-1 wins at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, under closed doors.
Express, making a 24 year absence on the continent was the first in the business on Friday, overcoming Sudan’s Al Merrikh with strikers Erick Kambale and Martin Kizza on target in the 6th and 60th minutes respectively during the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.
Express captain Enock Walusimbi with the Al Merrikh counterpart during the official pre-match customs with the match officials
Al Merrikh got their consolation through Bakri Abd Elgadir’s 38th minute strike.
The return leg will happen on Friday, 17th September 2021 in Khartoum city.
‘We played well and scored two important goals. We have to play with determination and caution in the return leg to qualify for the first round’ James Odoch, assistant coach at Express FC revealed.
URA Football Club forward Steven Desse Mukwala (shirt 9) celebrates one of his two goals against Ethiopian Coffee
Meanwhile, URA returned to the continent since 2015 and won 2-1 over visiting Ethiopia’s side; Ethiopian Coffee.
Steven Mukwala, fresh from Uganda Cranes duties notched a brace in the game, both goals coming in the first half (22nd and 38th minutes).
William Solomon Tesfay pulled a goal back for the free-passing Ethiopians and will have something to play for when the return leg comes knocking on Sunday, 19th September 2021 at the Bahir Dar International Stadium.
URA Football Club players celebrate one of their two goals against Ethiopian Coffee at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Sunday
URA FC Head coach Sam Timbe was full of praise for the maximum points recorded at home, an achievement that they have to shield on the away trip.
‘Winning at home and in the first leg was important. We have to fight gallantly and protect this lead when we travel to Ethiopia next week’ Timbe who came to the touch line in the second half stated.
Both Express and URA will travel to their respective destinations mid-week.
Uganda Cranes earned their second point in the on-going FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers with a hard fought draw against West Africans Mali at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Monday, 6th September 2021.
In a rain marred game, Uganda finished the game with 10 men following a red card to defender Murushid Juuko in the 69th minute.
The visitors dominated possession for long spells of the game but Uganda did not lose their shape at any stage of the game played behind closed doors.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi was man-marked throughout
Left back Isaac Muleme tested Mali’s goalkeeper with a venomous free-kick from distance in the opening stanza.
This was followed by a similar attempt from second half substitute Mustafa Kizza in the closing stages of the game.
Kizza had replaced Joseph Benson Ochaya on 66 minutes.
Derrick Nsibambi is challenged during an aerial contest
Other players introduced for Uganda Cranes were Innocent Wafula Esimu, Ibrahim Orit, Steven Desse Mukwala and Moses Waiswa Ndohondi.
Uganda Cranes now has two points from two matches played. Mali leads the standings in group with four points while Kenya, like Uganda is also on two points.
Rwanda, the other group E team is bottom with one point.
Uganda Cranes will face Rwanda in the next phase of qualifiers coming in October 2021.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Mali
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Denis Iguma (12), Isaac Muleme (20), Enock Walusimbi (16), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Subs:
Charles Lukwago (18), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (21), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Kenneth Semakula (15)
Monday, September 6, 2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Mali Les Aigles
At St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m & All Official FUFA Social Media platforms
Uganda Cranes starting line-up to face Mali in the group E FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers is out.
There are three changes from the team that started in the goal-less stalemate with Kenya on Thursday.
In goal, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga starts ahead of Charles Lukwago and Joel Mutakubwa.
The other 10 players are; Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Enock Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Milton Karisa, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Derrick Nsibambi and Joseph Benson Ochaya.
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Denis Iguma (12), Isaac Muleme (20), Enock Walusimbi (16), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Subs:
Charles Lukwago (18), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (21), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Kenneth Semakula (15)
Monday, September 6, 2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Mali Les Aigles (4 PM) – St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Wakiso District
Live on All FUFA Social Media platforms, 102.1 FUFA fm
Uganda Cranes takes to the field of play at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende against Mali during a group E match in the FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers at St Mary’s Stadium, Wakiso on Monday, 6th September 2021.
This will be the fifth ever meeting between these two countries; the latest face-off having been the 1-all draw during the AFCON 2017 finals at Stade De Oyam in Gabon.
Enock Walusimbi and Aucho Khalid sprint during the last training at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
Uganda Cranes has a point after the goal-less draw with Kenya Harambee Stars at the Nyayo National Stadium last Thursday.
Mali leads the standings in group E following their 1-0 win at home against Rwanda 1-0.
The West Africans arrived in the country on Sunday evening and managed to train at the St Mary’s Stadium.
Uganda Cranes players in Camp:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa
Outfield players: Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi, Milton Karisa, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Joseph Benson Ochaya, Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Ibrahim Orit, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala, Derrick Nsibambi, Yunus Sentamu, Mustapha Kizza, Enock Walusimbi, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Martin Kizza, Kenneth Semakula
Mali players after arriving at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Sunday, 5th September 2021
Monday, 6th September 2021 – Uganda Cranes Vs Mali
At St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
Uganda Cranes will face West Africans Mali in the two countries’ second respective group E match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende in Wakiso District on Monday, 6th September 2021.
Mali comes to the match top of the group having won 1-0 over in their opener as Uganda shared the spoils with Kenya at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on Thursday.
As the match kicks closer, the team captain of Uganda Cranes Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and the head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic have expressed the readiness to face Mali in the match.
Okwi and Micho addressed the media at the FUFA House Complex on the match eve during a press conference that was shared on ZOOM for the journalists elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Uganda Cranes conducted the final training session at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Sunday evening (5-6 PM)>
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and Yunus Sentamu jump during the last training session
Uganda Cranes Vs Mali (Monday, 6th September 2021)
At St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
The Uganda Cranes held a two hour training session at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Saturday, 4th September 2021.
This session involved ball work session and lots of stretches under the head coach Milutin Sredojevic and his entire backroom stafff.
Here is the pictorial from the two hour training session.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi leads the rest of his teammates from the dressing roomsThe ball work warm up drillL-R: Murushi Juuko, Derrick Paul Nsibambi and Yunus Sentamu in trainingGoalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba Kisitu during the work-outs with the goalkeepersThe work-outs
Innocent Wafula in training closed down by Abdu Aziizi Kayondo
Defender Enock Walusimbi in trainingStretchingURA Football Club forward Steven Desse MukwallaPrayer after the training session
The Players at Cranes Paradise Hotel:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa
Outfield Players: Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Enock Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Yunus Sentamu, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Paul Derrick Nsibambi, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Mustafa Kizza, Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala, Kenneth Semakula, Shafik Kagimu, Martin Kizza
Uganda Cranes Vs Mali (Monday, 6th September 2021) – At St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
Following the goal-less draw away from home against Kenya Harambee Stars, Uganda Cranes delegation safely returned home aboard Ethiopian Airlines on Friday.
The team returned to camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi, Kampala where they joined the three players who had been earlier released after the international build up with Ethiopia.
Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Martin Kizza and Kenneth Semakula are all with the team in the camp.
At Entebbe International Airport, the team was warmly received by the second vice president Darius Mugoye and the FUFA Communications director Ahmed Hussein Marsha.
Head coach Micho with the FUFA Second Vice President Darius Mugoye at Entebbe International AirportStriker Paul Derrick Nsibambi wheels off his luggage at Entebbe International Airport
‘When we take on Mali, we need an improved performance and result from the Kenya game. It is a motivation from the game we played on Thursday’ Micho told the media at Entebbe International Airport.
FUFA communications director urged the fans to keep calm as the game will be also be behind closed doors because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
There is virtually no time to rest as the training resumes on Saturday with a recovery session in the morning at the hotel and training at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende later in the afternoon (4 PM).
Meanwhile, the Mali delegation arrives at Entebbe International Airport on Saturday evening (6 PM) aboard a chartered flight and will be accommodated at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
Team manager Geofrey Massa with cheer leader Abdallah Byaruhanga
The Uganda Cranes team in Camp:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa
Outfield Players: Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Enock Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Yunus Sentamu, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Paul Derrick Nsibambi, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Mustafa Kizza, Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala, Kenneth Semakula, Shafik Kagimu, Martin Kizza
The Uganda Cranes officially kicked off the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers (Group E) with a valuable point away from home against Kenya on Thursday, 2nd September 2022 at the Nyayo National Stadium.
In total, 15 players with attachment to the different clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League were part of the Uganda Cranes 23-man squad in Kenya.
Of these, 6 started the game and 3 others were introduced as 6 were among the un-used substitutes.
Abdu-Aziizi Kayondo, Ibrahim Orit and Innocent Esimu Wafula are all players in the domestic league
Goalkeeper Charles Lukwago (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers), Murushid Juuko (Express), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers) and Milton Karisa started the game.
Murushid Juuko (Express)
Milton Karisa (Vipers)
Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC)
Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers)
Denis Iguma (KCCA FC)
Express captain Enock Walusimbi replaced Lwaliwa just after 7 minutes after the latter picked up an injury, Ibrahim Orit replaced Moses Waiswa and last season’s UPL leading scorer striker Yunus Sentamu came on for Milton Karisa.
Express FC Captain Enock Walusimbi (middle) started on the bench but came on as a first half substitute after just seven minutes for Halid Lwaliwa
The unused substitutes were goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa (Express FC), Innocent Wafula Esimu (KCCA FC), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Sports Club Villa), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers SC), Richard Basangwa (Vipers SC) and Uganda Revenue Authority’s forward Steven Desse Mukwala.
Midfielder Byaruhanga marked his first ever senior start on the national team having gradually made the mark through the FUFA Juniors League (FJL), St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School – Kitende, Uganda U-20 and U-23 teams.
Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers)
Byaruhanga played full time in his third international cap on the senior team after making his debut against South Africa in June 2021 and recently during the build up with Ethiopia at Bahir Dar city.
He attributes this meteoric rise to consistent training, self-belief and adherence to advice from coaches as well as senior players.
“Personally, I am happy that I have been able to play football on the Uganda National senior team. It has always been my dream. Right from school days, I loved to train for extra hours. I am a believer who has it in my mind that I can do it and besides, I always listen to advise from the coaches, former players and senior players’ Byaruhanga testifies.
Defender Walusimbi was playing his second ever international match after the build up with Ethiopia in Bahir Day city.
Against Ethiopia, Walusimbi started at right back before he was replaced at half time.
In his second game, Walusimbi got introduced for the injured Halid Lwaliwa, just five minutes after kick off.
He boldly attributes the steadfast progress on the national team to his partner at the club (Express) and long serving Uganda Cranes defender Murushid Juuko.
‘Juuko and other senior players on the team as Isaac (Muleme) and Iguma (Denis) helped me settle in so fast. Even when I was introduced, they assured me of cover every time I committed myself in a tackle or an aerial challenge’ Walusimbi notes.
The team is already back in the country and will be preparing for the second game against Mali on Monday at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Joel Mutakubwa is a goalkeeper at the reigning UPL champions Express
Steven Desse Mukwala plays for Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club
It should also be noted that the current camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi has three other players who ply in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League as URA FC captain Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Martin Kizza (Express) and Kenneth Semakula (SC Villa).
How Uganda Cranes lined up against Kenya:
Charles Lukwago (G.K), Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa (5’ Enock Walusimbi), Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (66’ Ibrahim Orit), Milton Karisa (83’ Yunus Sentamu), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 46’ Derrick Paul Nsibambi), Joseph Benson Ochaya (66’ Mustafa Kizza)
Subs Not Used:
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (G.K), Joel Mutakubwa (G.K), Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala
The Vipers SC duo of Abdu-Aziizi Kayondo and Richard Basangwa
Uganda Cranes kicked off FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign with an away point off the Kenya Harambee Stars during group E at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi.
The two countries huffed and puffed throughout the 90 minutes of the well contested game played under closed doors because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Uganda Cranes started the game on a low tone with an untimely injury to defender Halid Lwaliwa after just five minutes into the game.
Express Football Club captain Enock Walusimbi was introduced at the heart of defence.
Action during the game in the opening half
The visitors had the inaugural attempt on target in the 20th minute from midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga in his first ever start for the national senior team.
Three minutes later, Joseph Ochaya shot off target from 25 yards as Uganda stabilized.
Moses Waiswa had a free-kick fly wide towards the half hour before Milton Karisa was brought down on the edge of the goal area for a contestable penalty decision.
Moses Waiswa passes the ball
Uganda Cranes lost team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi with an injury towards the very end of the first half and it needed fresh legs of Derrick Nsibambi at the start of the final stanza.
There came a double change in the 66th minute when Mustafa Kizza and winger Ibrahim Orit were pushed on for Ochaya and Waiswa respectively.
Khalid Aucho and Olunga vie for the ball during the game
Later, Yunus Sentamu took over Milton Karisa’s place with less than 10 minutes to play.
Uganda earned their first point of the campaign that head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic was contented with.
‘The campaign is officially off and a point is good enough. We still have to iron out goal scoring issues and at one stage, I believe we would have been given a penalty’ Micho noted.
The team returns home on Friday afternoon at 2 PM aboard Ethiopian Airlines and preparations for the Mali game (at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende) take immediate effect.
Uganda Cranes XI
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Charles Lukwago (18), Denis Iguma (KCCA, Uganda), Isaac Muleme (20), Halid Lwaliwa (15), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Uganda Cranes substitute players singing the national anthem
Subs:
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (CF Montréal, Canada), Enock Walusimbi (Express, Uganda)
Team captains with the match officials prior to kick off
Match officials:
Center Referee: Ismail Mahmood Ali Mahmood (Sudan)
1st Assistant Referee: Ibrahim Abdallah Mohammed (Sudan)
2nd Assistant Referee: Abdel Gabar Muhammed (Sudan)
Fourth Official: Fadul Sabri Muhammad (Sudan)
Referee Assessor: Labrosse Jean Claude (Seychelles)
Match Commissioner: Solomon Gebre Selassie (Ethiopia)
