FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: Hippos

  • AFCON U20 Egypt: Uganda Hippos enter residential camp in Njeru

    AFCON U20 Egypt: Uganda Hippos enter residential camp in Njeru

    The Uganda U20 football national team, The Hippos have on Wednesday entered residential camp at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru ahead of the 2023 AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt.

    The team that departed from FUFA House, Mengo, is expected to spend 10 days in Njeru, which the technical team will use to fully assess and examine the players before shifting base to Cranes Paradise Hotel after reducing the number.

    Some of the players pose for photos before setting off

    A total of 50 players were summoned by head coach Jackson Mayanja on Tuesday, with only one player (Muhammad Nsereko) from the winning team in Sudan missing.

    Most of the summoned players reported apart from skipper and Greek based Isma Mugulusi, Italy based forward Oscar Mawa, Titus Ssematimba and Travis Mutyaba who are currently with the Cranes CHAN team in Algeria.

    The Hippos qualified for the second successive time after finishing as runners up in 2021 in Mauritania.

    They are in Group B along with the Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, and South Sudan.

    The tournament will run from February 19 to March 11 in Egypt, in the cities of Cairo, Ismailia, and Alexandria.

    The full provisional Squad

    Goalkeepers

    Abdu Magada (Gaddafi FC)
    Kamya Shamulan (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala (Bushenyi Veterans FC)
    Nsumba Venacious (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Oyo Delton (SC Villa)

    Defenders

    Lukwago Haruna (KCCA FC)
    Opiru Justine (URA FC)
    Mpanga Sula (Maroons FC)
    Ibrahim Juma (FC Leganes, Spain)
    Ssemayange Simon Kato (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Jimmy Ndalambi (Blacks Power FC)
    Samson Kasozi (UPDF FC)
    Ronald Madoi (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Kakogwe Apollo (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
    Simon Mukisa (UPDF FC)
    Enyou Allan (Elite Falcons FC, Dubai)
    Kibande Cyrus (Teranova Soccer Academy)
    Kitariko Kiano (Kedleston Road, Derby campus, UK)

    Midfielders

    Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC)
    Ivan Irinimbabazi (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Frank Katongole (St. Mary’s, Kitende)
    Allan Kiggundu (Bul FC)
    Kyazze Faizo (Manyangwa FC)
    Mugulusi Isma (Makedonikos FC, Greece), Jemba AbduShakur Ramsey ( International House Football Academy, Manchester)
    Titus Ssematimba (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Travis Mutyaba (SC Villa)
    Faisal Wabyoona (KCCA FC)
    Andrew Kawooya (KCCA FC)
    Mutebi Hakim (St. Mary’s Kitende)
    Nyanzi Marvin (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Mukisa Owen (Bul FC)
    Christian Mulindwa (Rangers FC)

    Forwards

    Kasinde Ibrahim (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Rogers Mugisha (UPDF FC)
    Kakande Patrick Jonah ( SC Villa)
    Hassan Mubiru (Express FC)
    Ivan Asaba (Vipers SC)
    Umar Lutalo (SC Villa)
    Issa Bugembe (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Kyeyune Abas (UPDF FC)
    Oscar Mawa (Italy)
    Emmanuel Mukisa (Kataka FC)
    Magogo Shafiq (UPDF FC)
    Dembe John Paul (KCCA FC U20)
    Kato Shaun Senkubuge (Tottenham Hotspur FC)
    Alpha Ssali (Unattached)
    Ssevume Simeo (Rubaga High School), Kakaire Thomas (Unattached).

    Officials

    Head Coach: Jackson Mayanja
    Assistant Coach: Massa Simeon
    Goalkeeping coach: Mubarak Kiberu
    Fitness Coach: Kasule Noah
    Team Manager (Mutyaba Bashir)
    Team Doctor: Gumisiriza Michael Kamu
    Physiotherapist: Kyasimire Darline
    Media Officer: Ronald Lusulire
    Kits Manager: Bumpenje Frank

  • AFCON U20 Egypt: Jackson Mayanja names provisional Squad ahead of final tournament

    AFCON U20 Egypt: Jackson Mayanja names provisional Squad ahead of final tournament

    Uganda Hippos head coach Jackson Mayanja has named the provisional squad ahead of the final tournament in Egypt next month.

    A total of 50 players have been summoned by Mayanja with only one player (Muhammad Nsereko) from the winning team in Sudan missing.

    SC Villa exciting forward Travis Mutyaba, Ivan Asaba, Andrew Kawooya Alpha Ssali, Saidi Mayanja, Oscar Mawa and Ivan Irinimbabazi are some of the other notable additions in the squad.

    The team will enter residential camp tomorrow (Wednesday) at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru, for a couple of days before shifting base to the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi.

    The Hippos qualified for the second successive time after finishing as runners up in 2021 in Mauritania.

    They are in Group B along with the Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, and South Sudan.

    The tournament will run from February 19 to March 11 in Egypt, in the cities of Cairo, Ismailia, and Alexandria.

    The full provisional Squad

    Goalkeepers

    Abdu Magada (Gaddafi FC)
    Kamya Shamulan (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala (Bushenyi Veterans FC)
    Nsumba Venacious (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Oyo Delton (SC Villa)

    Defenders

    Lukwago Haruna (KCCA FC)
    Opiru Justine (URA FC)
    Mpanga Sula (Maroons FC)
    Ibrahim Juma (FC Leganes, Spain)
    Ssemayange Simon Kato (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Jimmy Ndalambi (Blacks Power FC)
    Samson Kasozi (UPDF FC)
    Ronald Madoi (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Kakogwe Apollo (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
    Simon Mukisa (UPDF FC)
    Enyou Allan (Elite Falcons FC, Dubai)
    Kibande Cyrus (Teranova Soccer Academy)
    Kitariko Kiano (Kedleston Road, Derby campus, UK)

    Midfielders

    Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC)
    Ivan Irinimbabazi (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Frank Katongole (St. Mary’s, Kitende)
    Allan Kiggundu (Bul FC)
    Kyazze Faizo (Manyangwa FC)
    Mugulusi Isma (Makedonikos FC, Greece), Jemba AbduShakur Ramsey ( International House Football Academy, Manchester)
    Titus Ssematimba (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Travis Mutyaba (SC Villa)
    Faisal Wabyoona (KCCA FC)
    Andrew Kawooya (KCCA FC)
    Mutebi Hakim (St. Mary’s Kitende)
    Nyanzi Marvin (Wakiso Giants FC)
    Mukisa Owen (Bul FC)
    Christian Mulindwa (Rangers FC)

    Forwards

    Kasinde Ibrahim (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Rogers Mugisha (UPDF FC)
    Kakande Patrick Jonah ( SC Villa)
    Hassan Mubiru (Express FC)
    Ivan Asaba (Vipers SC)
    Umar Lutalo (SC Villa)
    Issa Bugembe (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
    Kyeyune Abas (UPDF FC)
    Oscar Mawa (Italy)
    Emmanuel Mukisa (Kataka FC)
    Magogo Shafiq (UPDF FC)
    Dembe John Paul (KCCA FC U20)
    Kato Shaun Senkubuge (Tottenham Hotspur FC)
    Alpha Ssali (Unattached)
    Ssevume Simeo (Rubaga High School), Kakaire Thomas (Unattached)

    Officials

    Head Coach: Jackson Mayanja
    Assistant Coach: Massa Simeon
    Goalkeeping coach: Mubarak Kiberu
    Fitness Coach: Kasule Noah
    Team Manager (Mutyaba Bashir)
    Team Doctor: Gumisiriza Michael Kamu
    Physiotherapist: Kyasimire Darline
    Media Officer: Ronald Lusulire
    Kits Manager: Bumpenje Frank

  • Uganda Hippos learn AFCON U20 opponents

    Uganda Hippos learn AFCON U20 opponents

    Uganda U20 National Team has on Friday learnt the opponents they will be facing in the 2023 Africa U20 Cup of Nations finals.

    In the draws conducted today in Cairo, Egypt, Uganda was pitted in the same group (B) with Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville and South Sudan.

    It should be noted that Uganda defeated South Sudan in the CECAFA regional qualifiers finals held last month in Sudan.

    This is the second time that Uganda will be participating at this stage.

    The Uganda Hippos in their maiden appearance last year reached the final only to lose to Ghana.

    Full Draw

    GROUP A

    Egypt
    Mozambique
    Senegal
    Nigeria

    GROUP B

    Uganda
    Central African Republic
    South Sudan
    Congo Brazzaville

    GROUP C

    Gambia
    Benin
    Tunisia
    Zambia

  • Each member of the triumphant Uganda Hippos to receive UGX 5M for AFCON Qualification

    Each member of the triumphant Uganda Hippos to receive UGX 5M for AFCON Qualification

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim officially received the Uganda Hippos on Monday following their successful expedition at the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The team hit two birds with one stone, securing a berth to next year’s continental showpiece but as well emerging Champions of the region after defeating South Sudan 2-1 in the final on Friday.

    Uganda Hippos players listening during the official function at FUFA Complex.

    The contingent (players and officials) returned to the country on Saturday and FUFA organized a function on Monday to officially welcome them.

    While speaking to the team, FUFA President lauded them for a job well-done but also stated this should be treated as a starting point of achieving the ultimate target of reaching the World Cup.

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim speaking to the Uganda Hippos.

    “It is a momentous occasion for us to be celebrating another milestone. I take this opportunity to thank the players and the coaching staff for a tremendous achievement of returning to AFCON. Our vision as FUFA is to be the number one footballing Nation in Africa on and off the field and that can be achieved by qualifying for such tournaments. We played all the way to the final at the last tournament and therefore, our target should be attaining the same or even better because that gives us the chance of qualifying to the FIFA World Cup,” he said.

    L-R: Leader of Delegation Hamid Juma, Captain Isma Mugulusi and Captain Jackson Mayanja hand over the trophy to FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

    The President also indicated, FUFA has been strategic at nurturing talent through several interventions such as the FUFA Juniors League that has given a platform to several players who have represented the country at different levels.

    “When we started the FUFA Juniors League in 2015, we had a deliberate strategy of creating a pool of players and we are proud that most of you have come through the ranks. Majority of you have progressed from the U17 team to the U20 and some have gone all the way to play for the Senior National Team. This is the progress that we dreamed of and we believe that the future even holds more for us.” He added.

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim poses with Abdu Magada who was named the best goalkeeper.

    He spared time and gave a word of caution to the players, indicating success comes with different challenges.

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim poses with the Hippos technical team.

    “It is good that you are winners today but this is not the end of the world. This is a critical stage in a player’s career and if you do not handle yourself well now, you are likely to take the wrong path. Talent alone is not enough but you must have the passion for the game, be disciplined and work extremely hard. As you go back to your respective clubs, make sure you keep the same zeal and make sure you are part of the team come February next year.”

    Team Media Officer Ronnie Lusulire poses for a photo with FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

    The President on behalf of FUFA stated they will give support to the team towards preparations for the final tournament and also promised a cash Prize of five million shillings to every member of the team including players and technical staff.

    “As FUFA, we promise full support to the team towards preparations for the final tournament. We want you to go and play to your best abilities and we have proved over the years that we can compete against everyone. Additionally, FUFA will extend five million shillings to every member who was part of the team in Sudan as a token of appreciation.”

    FUFA Executive Committee Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe who also doubles as the Head of International Football appreciated the team for a successful expedition and assured the players of full support from the Federation.

    Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (second from left) poses for a photo with FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha (extrem right) and Leader of Delegation Ahmid Juma.

    “I want to first of all thank FUFA President for bearing the vision of youth football. As FUFA, we are proud of the job you did in Sudan and we hope more can be achieved. FUFA has always provided a platform for young players to show their adeptness and we commit that more support will be rendered to this team in order to achieve more success.” He said.

    Coach Jackson Mayanja lauded FUFA for the opportunity and also making sure the team received the necessary support in a short time.

    Coach Jackson Mayanja speaking.

    “I take this opportunity to thank FUFA for the opportunity of guiding this wonderful team. I must confess that the welfare of the team was good and motivation to the team was evident. When I came to the team, I told the players that our target is to go to the World Cup and this success is just part of our journey.” He stated.

    Skipper Isma Mugulusi also shared similar sentiments thanking FUFA for the support but also appreciating the technical team for guiding us in our journey at the tournament.

    Captain Isma Mugulusi.
  • Uganda Hippos retain CECAFA title enroute to AFCON qualification

    Uganda Hippos retain CECAFA title enroute to AFCON qualification

    Uganda U20 Men’s Football National Team are the Champions of the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

    The Hippos successfully defended the regional title after overcoming South Sudan in the final on Friday at Al Hilal Stadium.

    Uganda had to come from a goal down to edge neighbours South Sudan in a closely contested affair.

    Note should be taken that the two sides had already secured slots to the U20 Africa Cup of Nations slated for next year in Egypt but were playing the final for honours.

    South Sudan that took the lead 15 minutes into the game through Felix Abishai who finished from close range.

    Uganda fought back and levelled matters seven minutes later through Issa Bugembe whose ferocious strike from outside of the box found the back of the net.

    The winning goal came in the second half through Wakiso Giants midfielder Titus Ssematimba.

    Victory means Uganda successfully defends the CECAFA crown they won in 2020 in Tanzania.

    Uganda Hippos played at U20 AFCON for the first time last year and defied odds to reach the final before losing 2-0 to eventual winners Ghana.

    Abdu Magada and entire Hippos team were named best goalkeeper and Fair Play Award Winners respectively.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos out to defend crown against South Sudan

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos out to defend crown against South Sudan

    Uganda Hippos will tonight take on South Sudan in the final of the CECAFA U20 Zonal qualifiers at Al Hilal Stadium, Sudan.

    Despite both nations sealing qualification at the final AFCON tournament in Egypt next year, they come into this encounter eager to lift the regional trophy.

    The Hippos are boosted by the return of full backs Haruna Lukwago and Simon Ssemayange from COVID-19 after testing negative ahead of the final while Ibrahim Kasinde and Abasi Kyeyune are still out for the same case.

    Head Coach Jackson Mayanja urged his troops to go out serious and ready to battle South Sudan so they can lift the trophy.

    “We have already qualified yes but we want to wrap it up in style with victory against South Sudan and this means we have to fight hard on the pitch because we know our opponents are a strong team as well.”

    Left back Ibrahim Juma believes lifting the trophy will be very motivating to the entire team and country.

    “We already qualified and now our focus as a team is to lift the trophy. This is what we want now and it will motivate us and the nation at large.”

    It should be noted that the Hippos are the defending champions having defeated hosts then Tanzania 4-1 in 2020.

  • Uganda Hippos secure return to Africa Cup of Nations

    Uganda Hippos secure return to Africa Cup of Nations

    Uganda U20 Men’s National Team, The Hippos are through to the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Sudan in the semifinals of the ongoing CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.

    The Hippos defied odds to overcome hosts Sudan to reach the final of the regional Championship, a result that meant returning to the continental showpiece.

    Two goals from defender Rogers Torach and captain Isma Mugulusi ensured Uganda edged Sudan in the semifinal contest played on Tuesday at Kober Stadium.

    It should be noted the two finalists at the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers represent the region in the final tournament.

    Therefore Uganda and South Sudan who beat Ethiopia 4-2 on penalties got the two slots and will face of in the final to determine the Champion.

    Uganda will play at the final tournament for the second successive time, having featured at the last edition in 2021 where they defied odds to play all the way to the final before losing to eventual winners Ghana.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos determined to seal qualification against hosts Sudan

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos determined to seal qualification against hosts Sudan

    Uganda Hippos return into action tonight against hosts Sudan in the semi finals at the ongoing CECAFA AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers in Sudan.

    It will be the first time in the tournament that the Hippos will be playing on artificial turf at Kober stadium.

    Nothing but qualification to the final AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt next year is what Uganda will be aiming at having tasted the fruits in the previous edition in Mauritania, 2021.

    Against the hosts Sudan, the Hippos face a huge mountain to climb who finished top in Group A.

    Interim head Coach Jackson is however positive they will do the needful to seal qualification.

    “We are well of the task before us and what our target is. We are playing on artificial turf but this is not an issue because we have played on it before at home. This is an important match for us and we shall give our best.”

    Skipper Isma Mugulusi expressed his delight for returning and hopes his experience here will count.

    “I thank God we are in the semis, everyone knows the importance of this game and as a player I will give all I can to ensure we go through because playing at the AFCON will be another opportunity for us to market ourselves just like we did in Mauritania.”

    Uganda finished runners up in group B behind Ethiopia while Sudan topped group A.

    In the other semi final match, South Sudan with face off against Ethiopia.

    The two finalists will represent CECAFA region at the 2023 AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos aim to seal top spot in final group match against Ethiopia

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos aim to seal top spot in final group match against Ethiopia

    Uganda Hippos will play their second and final group match at the ongoing AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers on Saturday late evening against Ethiopia at Al Hilal Stadium.

    The Hippos who are already through to the semi finals following Tanzania failure to get maximum points against Ethiopia in their second match will make some few changes according to interim head coach Jackson Mayanja.

    Coach Jackson Mayanja (extreme left) talking to players as the rest of the technical team look on.

    “It’s our last group game and we want to get positive results to ensure we top it. We have trained well apart from skipper Mugulusi who suffered a slight knock and we shall rest him in this as well as making a few more changes.” He said in the pre match press conference.

    Assistant captain Titus Ssematimba just like his coach indicates they won’t take this game for granted together with his teammates.

    “We are in good mood and prepared well. We want to top the group and do to this we have to get positive results against Ethiopia without undermining them.”

    Uganda beat Tanzania in their first group B encounter and will know their semi finals opponents after their encounter against Ethiopia.

    The two teams that will reach the finals will represent CECAFA Region in the final U20 AFCON tournament in Egypt in 2023.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos qualify for semifinals with one group match to play

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos qualify for semifinals with one group match to play

    Uganda Hippos are into the semifinals of the ongoing CECAFA, AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers in Sudan.

    The confirmation follows a group B tie, between Tanzania and Ethiopia on Wednesday at Al Hilal Stadium which ended 2-2.

    The result meant that Tanzania who completed their group games now have 1 point, same as Ethiopia who still have a game left against Uganda that will come on Saturday 05th at Al Hilal Stadium.

    Tanzania only hope to make it to the semi finals lie in Uganda as they will be hoping for a win in favour of the Hippos against Ethiopia of more than two goals without scoring any.

    In the semi finals, Hippos could face hosts Sudan, South Sudan or Burundi depending on who will qualify from group A.

    Two nations that will reach the finals will represent CECAFA region at the 2023 U20 AFCON tournament in Egypt next year.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos start title defence with win over Tanzania

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos start title defence with win over Tanzania

    Uganda Hippos embarked on the mission to return to the U20 AFCON tournament on a bright note with a 2-0 victory over rivals Tanzania on Saturday evening at the Al Hilal Stadium.

    The first quarter of the gamw witnessed a cagey approach from both sides.

    A minute later, Ibrahim Kasinde chip from the right met Abasi Kyeyune but the latter failed to control it in the opponents box.

    In the 23rd minute, skipper Isma Mugulusi had a chance to break the deadlock but his shot from the 18 yard box was blocked.

    The awaited moment then came in the 31st minute as Titus Ssematimba broke the deadlock with a cool finish.

    Three minutes later, the Hippos doubled their lead through Rogers Mugisha who capitalized on a Kasinde minute on the right, a move that was initiated from the middle of the park by Frank Katongole.

    In the second stanza, the Tanzanians returned desperate to change things but the Hippos were resilient.

    The 63rd minute saw Hippos make changes introducing Faisal Wabyoona and Simon Mukisa for Kasinde and Ronald Madoi respectively.

    With a quarter an hour to play, defender Samson Kasozi made a timely goal line clearance to deny the visitors after goalie Abdu Magada was beaten.

    Tanzanian continued pressing for a consolation with a 78th minute cross from the left beautifully punched away by Magada.

    With 10 minutes to play, Hippos made the third change with Kyeyune paving way for Simon Ssemayange.

    The Jackson Mayanja coached side managed to keep it tight at the back to ensure they walk away with maximum points and a clean sheet.

    Hippos will return to action on Saturday 05th November against Ethiopia at Al Hilal Stadium.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos determined to start campaign on positive note

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Hippos determined to start campaign on positive note

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers

    Saturday 29th October 2022

    Uganda Hippos vs Tanzania- Al Hilal Stadium – 7pm (Uganda) 6pm (Sudan)

    Uganda Hippos will begin their journey to defend the AFCON U20 Zonal qualification title against rivals Tanzania on Saturday evening at Al Hilal Stadium.

    The Hippos will be aiming at nothing but beginning on a bright note against their rivals Tanzania.

    Since arriving in Sudan on Wednesday, Uganda has conducted three training sessions including the last one with all players eager to prove their worth.

    Interim head coach Jackson Mayanja believes the team has prepared well and victory will be on Uganda’s side.

    “We have had nice preparations and we want to win our first game against Tanzania,” he started before adding,

    “The boys have responded well to training and I have also used my experience as well as my technical staff to tell the boys what they should do. It’s a big game and we expect to win.” He added.

    Team skipper Isma Mugulusi is optimistic his experience at this level will be key.

    “My teammates are ready and fit for Tanzania. We have adopted to the conditions here and we know it’s not easy but we shall fight together and with my experience here I will work extra hard to ensure we return to the AFCON U20.”

    After the clash with Tanzania from group B, the Hippos will rest for six days before playing their second group game against Ethiopia on 5th November at Al Hilal Stadium.

    The leader from group A will face runners up from group B and vice versa.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Uganda Hippos learn opponents

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Uganda Hippos learn opponents

    Uganda U20 Men’s Football National Team, The Hippos have learnt their group and opponents ahead of the 2022 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers in Sudan.

    The Hippos have been pitted in group B along Tanzania and Ethiopia.

    Uganda will kick start their journey to defend their title on Saturday 29th October against Tanzania at Al Hilal Stadium.

    They will then rest for six days before playing their second tie against Ethiopia on 5th November at Al Hilal Stadium.

    The leader from group A will face the runners up from group B and vice versa.

    The Hippos who have now spent 12 days in residential camp at the Cranes Paradise hotel, Kisaasi are expected to fly out on Wednesday morning for Sudan.

    Under the stewardship of new coach Jackson Mayanja, they will be hoping to defend their title inorder to return to the U20 AFCON tournament that will take place in Egypt in 2023.

    The Hippos reached the AFCON U20 finals in the last edition in 2021 in Mauritania, losing to Ghana 2-0.

    Groups

    Group A

    Sudan, Djibouti, South Sudan, Burundi.

    Group B

    Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia.

  • AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Coach Mayanja appoint new Hippos captains

    AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers: Coach Mayanja appoint new Hippos captains

    Uganda Hippos (U20) interim head coach Jackson Mayanja has appointed captains ahead of the AFCON Zonal Qualifiers that will take place in Sudan between 28th October to 11th November.

    After day 8 morning session at the Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, the Uganda Cranes legend appointed attacking midfielder Isma Mugulusi as the team captain.

    New captain Isma Mugulusi (L) and coach Jackson Mayanja.

    Mugulusi will be assisted by Wakiso Giants FC midfielder Titus Ssematimba, Ibrahim Juma and goalkeeper Abdu Magada respectively.

    Coach Jackson (L), Titus Ssematimba, Ibrahim Juma and Abdu Magada share a light moment.

    The development means, the now Greece based player takes over Gavin Kizito who led the team to the AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers previously in Tanzania before storming the final tournament in Mauritania.

    Kizito has since graduated to the U23 (Kobs) as well as the senior Team, Uganda Cranes.

    Gavin Kizito receiving the Fair Play Award at the 2020 U20 AFCON.

    The Hippos are expected to fly out next Wednesday to Sudan in a bid to return to the AFCON U20 tournament next year.

  • FUFA Rewards Hippos team with $ 160,000

    FUFA Rewards Hippos team with $ 160,000

    Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has rewarded the national U-20 team (Hippos) with a total kitty of $ 160,000.

    This was officially announced by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo during a welcome luncheon held at Imperial Golf View Hotel in Entebbe.

    The Hippos were rewarded for finishing second during their debut AFCON U-20 tournament hosted by Mauritania, falling 2-0 to champions Ghana.

    Eng. Magogo was flanked by the first FUFA Vice President Justus Mugisha, Executive Committee members Rogers Mulindwa, Hamid Juma and Chrizestom Kalibala, FUFA Deputy CEO – Football Decolas Kiiza, delegates and other FUFA staff.

    He congratulated the entire team for the remarkable feat, tagging it as work in progress before he announced the $160,000 token.

    Uganda Hippos Captain Garvin Kizito Mugweri hands over an autographed jersey to Eng. Moses Magogo

    ‘As FUFA, we set ourselves a vision to be the number one footballing nation in Africa on and off the field of play. We are very ambitious. We are very happy and not disappointed at all. There is an element of humanity and reality that we must accept. We achieved by qualifying for the first ever AFCON finals tournament. Even the best sprinter in the world started by crawling. For us as FUFA, it remains work in progress as country. As players, you are in the development stages. This should draw more appetite. FUFA has a very proper strategy to achieve the results. I want to appreciate the FUFA Youth development officer Bashir Mutyaba who has overseen that youth competitions are very organized. I also thank the clubs that have given the youth players a chance to play. Football is a process and not an event. The senior team has to play at the FIFA World Cup. To the players, keep your heads high.’ Eng Magogo stated.

    Some of the FUFA Executive Committee members with the Uganda U-20 Team

    FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha was full of praises for the team, hinting to the Tunisian massacre in the semi-final as the most sweet victory.

    ‘I want to thank the players for the special performance while at the AFCON U-20 in Mauritania. You showed class, determination and character. I am very happy and was extremely overwhelmed for the 4-1 victory in the semi-finals against Tunisia. This was the best football played’ Mugisha disclosed.

    Leader of delegation Rogers Mulindwa saluted the efforts of the Federation, all the players, technical team and all the support staff for the collective responsibility.

    FUFA Executive Committee member Rogers Mulindwa shares a light moment with Eng. Moses Magogo

    ‘I thank all the parties at play that joined the hands together to achieve this success. We were a team committed to achieve. The initial target was to get out of the group stages and we made it. We believed in ourselves and made it. In 6 matches played, we won three man of the match accolades, scored 8 goals and conceded 5 with 4 wins. We got the only hattrick of the tournament, the top scorer, silver medals, two players and coach in the CAF team of the tournament and the CAF Fair play award. I also thank the FUFA management led by the president Eng. Moses Magogo and Sunset Hotel in Mauritania where the team was accommodated’ Mulindwa stated.

    The three Uganda U-20 players who won the man of match accolades at AFCON U-20
    Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso

    Head coach Morley Byekwaso lauded the players for the commitment, discipline as he pleaded with FUFA for more opportunities to work with this current crop of players.

    ‘I wish to thank these players for the commitment, discipline and hard work. We learnt a lot of positive things from this tournament. I request FUFA to grant me the opportunity to work with these players in future. To the players, do not go out and mess with life. Respect the elders and learn from the young ones’ Byekwaso stated.

    FUFA has offered the team $160,000 that will be shared amongst all the contingent that made the trip to Mauritania.

    The Uganda U-20 team players who played in Mauritania
  • Total AFCON U20: A lot achieved by the Hippos despite falling to Ghana in the Final

    Total AFCON U20: A lot achieved by the Hippos despite falling to Ghana in the Final

    After a successful display of great football in their maiden tournament, the Uganda U20 team fell to West African giants Ghana in the Final by 2-0 at the Stade Olympique in Nouakchott on Saturday night.

    Despite dominating the opening 15 minutes of the Total AFCON U20 final game, the Hippos conceded in the 21st and 50th minutes of the game with goals coming from Ghanaian captain Daniel Afriyie Barnieh who later named Man of the Match and Player of the Tournament.

    Uganda Hippos forward Richard Basangwa (Yellow) in action

    Tournament top scorer Derrick Kakooza had a chance to hand Uganda the lead inside five minutes of the match but his looping ball went over the bar. Substitute Ivan Bogere and Ivan Eyam also got opportunities inside the goal area but their efforts were not timed well.

    Midfilder Ivan Asaba with the ball during the Final. He was a menace to the Ghanaians as he was tracked from opening whistle till when he went off in the second half.

    ‘We wanted to get an early lead in the first minutes but we failed to convert our chances. The boys lost concentration upfront.  Ghana had the better experience than us. The champions used their chances and took the day’ daid Head Coach Byekwaso during the post-match press conference.

    Striker Derrick Kakooza emerged as the 2021 Total AFCON U20 top scorer with 5 goals. He was rewarded with an accolade.

    Uganda Hippos striker Derrick Kakooza receiving the Top Scorer’s accolade

    Awards

    The Hippos won the Tournament Fair Play Award.

    Left Back Aziizi Kayondo and Derrick Kakooza were named in the team of the Tournament while Head coach Byekwaso was picked as the best coach of the Tournament.

    ‘I am privileged to win the top scorer’s accolade, it wasn’t my own effort but for the whole team. I thank God for it and it has given me the courage to work hard for the best in my career’ said Derrick Kakooza after receiving the Top Scorer’s Award

    The Hippos ended the tournament with 8 goals scored and conceding 5 from the 6 games played.

    Uganda Hippos Captain Gavin Kizito receiving the Fair Play Award

    Isma Mugulusi (shirt 10), Aziizi Kayondo (shirt 3) and Derrick Kakooza (shirt 20) are the three players that managed to win Man of the Match accolade against Mozambique, Mauritania and Tunisia respectively.

    Uganda Hippos XI that started against Ghana in the Final; Back Row-L-R: Jack Komakech, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Kenneth Semakula, Derrick Kakooza, and captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri. Front Row: Aziizi Kayondo, Steven Sserwadda, Ivan Asaba, Isma Mugulusi and Bobosi Byaruhanga.
  • Total AFCON U20 Final: Uganda Hippos Coach; The Team is calm and ready for Ghana

    Total AFCON U20 Final: Uganda Hippos Coach; The Team is calm and ready for Ghana

    The 2021 AFCON U20 Tournament in Mauritania will climax on Saturday night (11pm EAT) with the Uganda Hippos battling Ghana in the historical final at the Olympique Stadium in Nouakchott.

    While at the Pre-Match Press Conference, Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso believes it is time for his team to accomplish the mission by winning the trophy.

    ‘It has been a long journey to the final. We have gone through many challenges but we remained strong and victorious. Calmness is the key to our victories since the beginning and we have no pressure. We shall only be fighting to become champions. Ghana is good but we believe in ourselves and ready to challenge them. Like we have been playing in the previous games, we shall bring out what we are best at doing naturally. We expect a very tough match but it is for us to accomplish our mission by winning the trophy’ said Byekwaso.

    Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso at the Pre-Match Press Conference on Friday

    ‘We are not under pressure. We know that if we are fit, we can take on any challenge that comes our way. We are fit and ready to face Ghana. We believe in our selves and we shall come out as victors in the final.’ noted Hippos captain Gavin Kizito during the Pre-Match Press Conference

    Hippos captain Gavin Kizito at the Pre-Match Press Conference

    The match will be played at 8:00pm (11:00pm E.A.T)

    Road to the Final

    Group A Stage matches

    Uganda 2-0 Mozambique

    Cameroon 0-1 Uganda

    Mauritania 1-2 Uganda

    Quarterfinals

    Uganda 0(5)-0(3) Burkina Faso.

    Semifinals

    Uganda 4-1 Tunisia

    Uganda U20 striker Derrick Kakooza is the leading top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals followed by Ghanaian Preciuos Boah with 3 goals.

  • AFCON U20: Uganda Hippos in final: Reactions, Congratulatory messages

    AFCON U20: Uganda Hippos in final: Reactions, Congratulatory messages

    The Total AFCON U20 final has been decided. Uganda and Ghana will contest for the top honours on Saturday 6th March in Muaritania. Many fans and high profile figures in Uganda have followed the tournament. The 4-1 for Uganda U20 over Tunisia sent the social media platforms buzzing with little space left to breath as the Hippos strolled heavily over their North African opponents.

    The President of the Republic of Uganda HE Yoweri Kaguta Museveni with 2.1 Million followers was among those to congratulate the team.

    ‘Congratulations to the #UgandaHippos for that emphatic victory against Tunisia which gives us a shot at the trophy in the #AFCONU20 finals. Your country is solidly behind you!

    The First Lady who is the Minister of Education and Sports alos sent her message to the team on her twitter handle.

    ‘Hearty congratulations to the Uganda Hippos upon reaching the finals of #TotalAFCONU20 .This is the first time to play in this tournament and we have reached this far. Keep up the good fight and we shall bring the trophy home’

    The Speaker of Parliament RT. Hon Rebecca Kadaga Alitwala posted on her twitter handle in ecstasy.

    On behalf of Uganda Parliament, I congratulate the HIPPOS for thier sterling performance at the U20, reaching the semi – finals of Afcon, Boys we are nearly there! GO UGANDANS Go!

    The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo who is MP elect Budiope East kept it simple and precise.

     It is not the win but how and against who!! Yes it is: #TotalAFCONU20 Semi Final Uganda 4 vs Tunisia 1 Football is not an event, It is a process It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

    FUFA President’s tweet after Uganda beat Tunisia 4-1 to qualify for the Final.
    • Minister of State for Sports Hon Hamson Obua
    • Uganda Cranes Captain Dennis Onyango congratulated the boys. Prior to the match he sent a message of good luck to the Hippos
    • KCCA FC Chairman Martic Ssekajja has an array of wonderful players on the team
    • Former Presidential Candidate (20216) Kizza Besigye had a moment to congratulate the Hippos
    • League Champions Vipers SC also had a message for the Hippos. Richard Basangwa who opened the floodgates for the goals on the night plays for the Venoms.
    • Experienced journalist Usher Komugisha also congratulated the youngsters while a fan Bumari Innocent had a word too.
    • Uganda U20 Team Skipper Gavin Kizito
    • A light moment from a fan Oscar Juniors on Facebook about the 200,000 USD promised to the team as winning bonuses.
    • A message from National Council of Sports
    • Aldrine Nsubuga-seasoned opinion writer on football
    Henry Thierry Musabe has witnessed the growth and playing career of most of the boys on the Uganda U20 team.