Category: Hippos

Since the beginning of training on Thursday 20th January 2021, there has been stiff competition among players in different positions aggressively working had to make it to the final squad that will travel for the AFCON U20 in Mauritania.

The squad that had 37 players is now reduced to a 30-man squad basically to allow the technical team remains with few players of whom the final 25-man squad will be selected before traveling for the final tournament.

Kiberu Ronald (Synergy FC), Lutalo Umar (Aspire Academy), Kitaka Samuel Moses (Loughborough University-UK), Lotanna Obi Obedi (Big Talent), Mukisa Emmanuel (Kataka FC), Okur Swamadu (Kataka FC), Opio Odong (Luzira FC) have been released from camp.

However, Morley Byekwaso (Head Coach) still believes the dropped players are good and he was impressed by their attitude during training.

‘We have training for over 4 days and we had to reduce the number of players in the squad. All the players we summoned are good but we depended so much on their fitness levels. I’m impressed by the players’ attitude during training. We had no choice but they are still in our setup fortunately they may be summoned yet again.’ We shall select the final 25 who will travel for AFCON in a few days from now.‘ notes Byekwaso.

Uganda Hippos will have a practice match on Wednesday 27^th January against KCCA FC at the MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo.

Kayondo Abdu Aziizi (Vipers SC) and Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC) will join the rest of the players depending on the fate of Uganda Cranes in CHAN Tournament.

The opponents that will play Uganda Hippos in AFCON will be identified after the draws that will be held on Monday 25^th January 2021.  

The Hippos are the Champions of CECAFA Region after winning the trophy in Arusha, Tanzania in December 2020.

At AFCON U-20 finals, Uganda is pooled in group A alongside hosts Mauritania, Cameroon and Mozambique.

Current players in camp.

Goalkeepers

Komakech Jack (Ascent SA), Oyo Delton (Busoga United FC), Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala (SC Villa), Ochama Daniel (Boro Boro Super Sport FC),

Defenders

Kizito Mugweri Gavin (SC Villa), Semakula Kenneth (Busoga United FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC) Kafumbe Joseph (KCCA FC), Kitabalwa Robert (Vipers SC), Begisa James Penz (UPDF FC), Baligeya Simon (Kibuli SS), Bbosa Richard (Express FC).

Midfielders

Mugulusi Isma (Busoga United FC), Yiga Najib (Vipers SC), Sserwadda Steven (KCCA FC), Alou John Kokas (URA FC), Eyamu Ivan (Mbarara City FC), Kawooya Andrew( KCCA FC), Asaba Ivan (Vipers SC), Ssekajja Davis (Bright Stars FC), Wabyoona Faisal  (Big Talent SA).

Fowards

Bogere Ivan (Proline FC), Ssenyonjo Samuel (KCCA FC), Kakooza Derrick (Police FC), Basangwa Richard (Vipers SC), Bukenya Joseph Kizza (KCCA FC), Onyai Raymond (Mbarara City FC), Mulindi Ashiraf  (Kataka FC), Ssali Alpha Thierry (Proline FC).

The technical team of Uganda U20 Hippos side headed by Coach Morley Byekwaso has summoned 38 players to begin preparations for the Total AFCON U20 Final tournament in Mauritania running from February 14^th – 6^th March 2021.

UK based young lads Kitaka Samuel Moses (Loughborough University) and Odokonyero Nathan (Lincoln City) are some of the new faces in the squad.

The players and officials will report for official camping on Wednesday 20^th January 2021 and will reside at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi.

The squad also has Bobosi Byaruhanga and Abdul Aziizi Kayondo currently on duty with the Uganda Cranes CHAN Team in Cameroon. They will join the squad depending on Uganda’s performance at the tournament.
Meanwhile, official training starts on Thursday evening at the Omondi Stadium in Lugogo – Kampala.

This is the first-ever Uganda Hippos engagement in the AFCON U20 Finals after emerging champions of the CECAFA Regional Qualifiers in December 2020.   

Provisional Squad:

Goalkeepers

Komakech Jack (Ascent SA), Kiberu Ronald (Synergy FC), Oyo Delton (Busoga United FC), Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala (SC Villa), Ochama Daniel (Boro Boro Super Sport FC), Kato Peter (Super Cubs FC)

Defenders

Kizito Mugweri Gavin (SC Villa), Semakula Kenneth (Busoga United FC), Kayondo Abdu Aziizi (Vipers SC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC) Kafumbe Joseph (KCCA FC), Kitabalwa Robert (Vipers SC), Begisa James Penz (UPDF FC), Baligeya Simon (Kibuli SS), Bbosa Richard (Express FC).

Midfielders

Mugulusi Isma (Busoga United FC), Yiga Najib (Vipers SC), Sserwadda Steven (KCCA FC), Byaruhanga Bobosi  (Vipers SC), Lutalo Umar (Aspire Academy), Alou John Kokas (URA FC), Okur Swamadu (Kataka FC), Eyamu Ivan (Mbarara City FC), Kawooya Andrew( KCCA FC), Asaba Ivan (Vipers SC), Ssekajja Davis (Bright Stars FC), Wabyoona Faisal  (Big Talent SA).

Fowards

Bogere Ivan (Proline FC), Ssenyonjo Samuel (KCCA FC), Kakooza Derrick (Police FC), Basangwa Richard (Vipers SC), Odokonyero Nathan (Lincoln City FC U18-UK), Kitaka Samuel Moses (Loughborough University-UK), Bukenya Joseph Kizza (KCCA FC), Onyai Raymond (Mbarara City FC), Mulindi Ashiraf  (Kataka FC), Mukisa Emmanuel (Kataka FC), Ssali Alpha Thierry (Proline FC).

OFFICIALS

Byekwaso Morley  – Head Coach

Masaba Simeon – Assistant Head Coach

Kiggundu Steven Billy  – Goalkeeping Coach

Katumba Yahaya –  Doctor

Mutyaba Bashir – Team Manager

Kasirye Alex – Team Media Officer

Bumpenje Frank – Kits Manager

CAF/CECAFA U-20 Zonal Qualifiers: Final: Uganda 4-1 Tanzania

Uganda U-20 National Team (The Hippos) convincingly overcame the hosts 4-1 during the final of the 2020 CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup played at the Black Rhino Academy sports center in Karatu, Tanzania on Wednesday, 2nd December 2020.

Both finalists started the match well aware they had already booked their tickets to the 2021 AFCON U20 Finals to be hosted by Mauritania but battles between the two teams are well documented.

Uganda and Tanzania have faced off in the last three years at all football levels right from youth to seniors for men and women.

So the final was a real football clash, but who wanted the trophy most?

Both teams were assured of total support from their Football Federation Presidents- Eng. Moses Magogo (Uganda) and Karia Wallace (Tanzania).

The hosts were further bouyed by the presence of Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, that extra support gave Ngorongoro stars every reason to believe that Uganda Hippos would be their next casuality in the final match of the tournament. The score board was so disappointing for the hosts as it flashed Uganda 4-1 Tanzania.

Uganda’s goals were scored by Najib Yiga, Steven Sserwadda, Ivan Bogere and Kenneth Semakula.

Abdul Hamisi Suleiman got the only goal for the hosts whch was an equaliser from the spot kick. It was fast paced match as the two teams played an open and free flowing football. Tanzania were looking to defend the title they won in 2019 after overcoming Kenya 1-0 in the final played at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru. Uganda had revenge possibly on their mind having lost to the Tanzanians in the same tournament last year 4-2 in Gulu.

Uganda’s captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Azizi Kayondo and Ivan Bogere picked cautions in the game that saw the latter miss a penalty when he blasted the shot over the bar just before the half time break.

Each of the players picked their own medals, an initiative in the new normal epoch to minimize contact between the people due to Covid-19.

Bogere finished as the tournament top scorer with 5 goals, same as Tanzanian, Abdul Hamisi Suleiman.

South Sudan’s goalkeeper Simon Justine was best shotstopper of the tournament.

FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, a CAF Executive Committee was among the dignitaries who watched the Final and graced the medals, awards and trophy presentation ceremony.

Uganda has further stamped authority of football dominance in the CECAFA region.

Uganda is the reigning CECAFA Champion in U-15 (boys), U-17 (Girls), U-17 (Boys), U-20 (Men), CECAFA Kagame Club Cup (KCCA FC) and the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup (Uganda Cranes).

Uganda U-20 XI Vs Tanzania: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Richard Basangwa (86′ Ivan Asaba), Najib Yiga (77′ Joseph Kizza Bukenya), Ivan Bogere, Steven Sserwadda (90′ Faisal Wabyoona)

Subs Not Used: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Joseph Kafumbe, Raymond Onyai, Alpha Thierry Ssali

CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup 2020:

Final: Uganda Vs Tanzania – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (3 PM)

*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

Uganda National U-20 team (The Hippos) head coach Morley Byekwaso confirmed the starting side against Tanzania in the final of the CECAFA U-2020 Challenge Cup.

The game will be played at Black Rhino Academy sports facility in Karatu town, the same venue where Uganda beat Kenya 3-1 in the semi-finals.

Jack Komakech starts in goal. The defenders are; Kenneth Semakula, Gavin Kizito Mugweri (captain), Abdul-Azizi Kayondo and Musa Ramathan.

It is a compact and solid midfield with the likes of Bobosi Byaruhanga, Isma Mugulusi, Najib Yiga, Steven Sserwadda.

The forward line has a lone striker in Ivan Bogere who has so far scored four goals in the tournament.

Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (goalkeeper),Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Faisal Wabyona, Joseph Kafumbe, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Raymond Onyai, Alpha Thierry Ssali and Ivan Asaba are all substitutes.

The game is live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, the football radio.

Tanzania is the reigning champion of the tournament last won in Uganda during the 2019 championship that was co-currently hosted at Pece War Memorial Stadium (Gulu) and FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru (Buikwe District).

Both Uganda and Tanzania have already secured their berths to the finals of the 2021 AFCON U-20 tournament that will be held in Mauritania.

AFCON U-20 Qualifiers (CECAFA Zone):

Final: Tanzania Vs Uganda (Wednesday, 2nd December 2020) – Black Rhino Academy Ground (3:30 PM)

Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

Hosts Tanzania and Uganda will face off in the final of the 2020 CECAFA Challenge Cup U-20 on Wednesday, 2nd November at the Black Rhino Academy, Karatu.

Tanzania are the defending champions and Uganda will be looking for the opportunity to dethrone them.

Uganda’s head coach Morley Byekwaso is optimistic that the final will be interesting since both sides have ball players and the better organized country on the day will win the trophy.

‘I anticipate a great game of football. Both countries have both players and the better side on the day will win the trophy’ Byekwaso disclosed after the final training session on the match eve.

Uganda humbled Kenya 3-1 in the first semi-final on Monday before Tanzania edged South Sudan 1-0 during the subsequent game.

Both Uganda and Tanzania are already assured of slots in the AFCON U-20 finals come 2021 that will be hosted in Mauritania.

CECAFA U-20 CHALLENGE CUP 2020 (AFCON U-20 Qualifier):

1st Semi-final: Uganda 3-1 Kenya

2nd Semi-final: Tanzania 1-0 South Sudan

Uganda U-20 team (The Hippos) has qualified for the AFCON U-20 finals in Mauritania.

The development comes after a convincing 3-1 win over Kenya in the first of the semi-final clashes at the Black Rhino Academy sports stadium in Karatu, Tanzania.

Striker Ivan Bogere scored twice, including a kick from the penalty mark to compliment defender Kenneth Semakula’s opener.

Half time had ended 2-0 in favour of Morley Byekwaso’s charges.

Enock Wanyama scored a late consolation for Kenya inside the goal area.

Uganda seals the berth to the AFCON finals and awaits the hosts Tanzania.

Tanzania, who are also the tournament defending champions beat South Sudan 1-0 in the second game on the day at the same venue.

Kassim Harunah scored the lone strike in the 56th minute.

The final game of the tournament as well as the third place play off will be played on Wednesday, 2nd December 2020.

CECAFA U-20 CHALLENGE CUP (Afcon U-20 Qualifiers)

Semi-finals: Monday, 30^th November 2020

• Uganda Vs Kenya – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (12 PM) *Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
• Tanzania Vs South Sudan – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (3:30 PM)

The Uganda U-20 Head Coach Morley Byekwaso has confirmed the starting eleven against Kenya during the first semi-final of the CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup at the Black Rhino Academy stadium in Karatu on Monday afternoon.

There is one change to the team that beat Burundi 6-1 last Wednesday.

Defender Musa Ramathan returns to the starting line up since the opening game when he was sent off against South Sudan.

The defence has Musa, team captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Aziz Kayondo and Kenneth Ssemakula.

The midfield is having Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga and Steven Sserwadda.

Ivan Bogere leads the line as the sole striker.

Uganda – Kenya kicks off by noon ahead of the second semi-final between Tanzania and South Sudan at 3:30 p.m.

The two finalists will thus make the grade for the AFCON U-20 finals that will be staged in Mauritania come 2021.

Uganda U-20 Vs Kenya: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga, Ivan Bogere, Steven Sserwadda

Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Faisal Wabyoona, Joseph Kafumbe, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Raymond Onyai, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Ivan Asaba

The match shall be relied live on 102.1 FUFA f.m.

CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup (AFCON U-20 Qualifiers): Uganda 6-1 Burundi

Uganda Hippos have registered an overwhelming 6-1 victory against Burundi during a group B clash of the 2020 CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup at the Shiekh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha on Wednesday.

Uganda’s goals came from two braces apiece by Ivan Bogere and Isma Mugulusi with Najib Yiga and second half substitute Joseph Kizza Bukenya completing the rout.

The Hippos’ technical department headed by Morley Byekwaso called for three changes in the game.

Raymond Onyai, Joseph Kizza Bukenya and Alpha Thierry Ssali replaced Richard Basangwa, Ivan Asaba and Najib Yiga respectively.

The Hippos succumbed to a late consolation goal on the stroke of full-time.

Uganda now has 4 points from 2 matches ahead of the final group B match on Friday when South Sudan takes on Burundi at the same venue.

The top placed team qualifies for the Semi finals. Uganda will now keep an eye on the final group match between South Sudan and Burundi for a place in the last four stage.

On Monday, a 10 man Uganda Hippos’ side had registered a goal-less draw with South Sudan.

Uganda U-20 XI Vs Burundi: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa (Raymond Onyai), Najib Yiga (85′ Alpha Thierry Ssali), Ivan Bogere, Ivan Asaba (Joseph Kizza Bukenya)

Changes:

Raymond Onyai For Richard Basangwa

Joseph Kizza Bukenya For Ivan Asaba

Alpha Thierry Ssali For Najib Yiga

Subs Not Used: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Faisal Wabyoona, Joseph Kafumbe

Suspended: Musa Ramathan

AFCON U-20 Qualifiers (CECAFA Zone):

Wednesday, 25th November 2020 – Uganda U-20 Vs Burundi U-20 (Group B)

At  Shiekh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha – 1 PM (Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m)

The Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso has confirmed the starting eleven against Burundi in the AFCON U-20 qualifiers (CECAFA Zone) group B encounter.

There are two changes in the team that picked a point off South Sudan on Monday.

With defender Musa Ramathan suspended, Isma Mugulusi and Ivan Bogere have been introduced as Raymond Onyai comes to the substitutes’ bench.

The other 9 players who started against South Sudan in the goal-less draw all start.

Goalkeeper Jack Komakech, defenders Gavin Kizito Mugweri (captain), Azizi Kayondo and Kenneth Semakula are at the back.

Others are Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa, Isma Mugulusi, Bogere and Ivan Asaba.

Uganda needs maximum points for a chance to make it to the semi-finals.

Uganda U-20 XI Vs Burundi: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga, Ivan Bogere, Ivan Asaba

Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona, Raymond Onyai, Joseph Kafumbe

Suspended: Musa Ramathan

CECAFA U20 CHALLENGE CUP (Group B): South Sudan 0-0 Uganda

South Sudan and Uganda U-20 national teams played to a non scoring draw in group B of the CECAFA Challenge Cup U-20 at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha on Monday.

Since the 35^th minute of the game, Uganda played with 10 men following a direct red card to defender Musa Ramathan.

Before the send-off, Uganda was dominant and came close to scoring through Richard Basangwa in the 10^th minute.

Ivan Asaba, Bobosi Byaruhanga and second half substitute Ivan Bogere were also close.

Bogere had the very last attempt at goal flying over with a with time half volley.

Uganda will have a day’s rest before taking on Burundi on Wednesday, 25^th November 2020.

Ramathan is expected to sit out the game against Burundi.

Uganda U-20 XI: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Musa Ramathan, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga (88′ Joseph Kafumbe), Richard Basangwa (85′ Isma Mugulusi), Raymond Onyai (62′ Ivan Bogere), Ivan Asaba

Subs Not Used: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona

Match Officials:

• Centre Referee: Saddam Houssein Mansour (Djibouti)
• Assistant Referee 1: Abdi Mohamed Nour (Somalia)
• Assistant Referee 2: Liban Abdourazak Ahmed (Djibouti)
• Fourth Official: Ahmed Hassan Hussein Ahmed (Somalia)
• Commissioner: Omar Mohamoud Nor (Somalia)
• Referee Assessor: Leslie Leonard Liunda (Tanzania)
• General Coordinator: Baraka Kizuguto (Tanzania)
• Technical Study Group: Tewodros Franco Karoni (Ethiopia)
• Media Officer: Ramadhani Kibuga (Burundi)
• Security Officer: Hashim Abdallah (Tanzania)
• Assistant General Coordinator: Yacoub Ali Elmi (Djibouti)

The strategic framework of FUFA administration since 2013 has seen the creation of (8) key focus areas aimed at realizing the FUFA Vision and Mission.

Among them, is Football Development that covers areas which were struggling previously.

Initially it was called the Technical Department before changes were made in 2018 renaming it  Football Development Department which now has four full time staff to handle football matters in; Youth Football, Women Football, Capacity Building, Refereeing Development, Sports Science, Beach Soccer and Futsal.

The past 96 years of FUFA’s history have witnessed the growth of the game under various leaders. FUFA has grown spontaneously right from the first President of the federation Sekabakka Daudi Chwa II to the current head (27^th FUFA President) Eng. Moses Magogo.

All the leaders have immensely contributed to the game.

The creation of the FUFA Juniors League in 2015 provided a platform of a young and vibrant staff at FUFA Bashir Mutyaba to take charge of a project that many thought would suffer still birth. It is a league designed to cater for players under the age of 17.

The story has since changed as products of the project are so many to give testimony.

Mutyaba is the FUFA Youth Development Manager who works under the supervision of FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe.

In a detailed interview with www.fufa.co.ug, Mutyaba notes that FUFA’s is to be the Number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field.

He is currently coordinating the U17 National team preparing for the CAF U17 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers due next month in Rwanda as he also keeps a close eye on what is happening in Tanzania where Uganda entered a team in the CECAFA U20 tournament-another continental qualifiers tournament.

FUFA media brings you the excerpts from the interview with Mutyaba-the CAF B Licensed coach.

What is the value of youth football development programs in Uganda?

Bashir Mutyaba: FUFA has a strategic plan and football development is one of its focus areas.

We have youth football falling in this department and we are looking at ensuring that all youth players are given opportunity to be developed from a young age and getting exposure through the youth national teams.

We have an objective of ensuring that we engage them in as many youth competitions as possible at both domestic and international level.

We need to nurture them to ensure a strong foundation and final product for Ugandan football and Uganda Cranes. 

Why has FUFA given these two teams-U17 and U-20 ample time for camping?

Bashir Mutyaba: We are defending champions of the zonal qualifiers that were hosted in 2018 by Tanzania.

We are preparing these boys to ensure that first of all we defend the trophy they won in 2018 during the zonal qualifiers when Uganda qualified for the very first time to the AFCON U17 Finals.

It was prudent for us to ensure that the coaches and players get ample time so that we go and give our best during the tournament and also qualify for the U17 AFCON 2021 and the U-20 tournament.

 What targets do you have for the youth projects?

Bashir Mutyaba: We have several targets and one of them is empowering the Talent Identification System which will help us pick on the best of the best to help them develop further through the youth national teams.

What targets has FUFA set for the U17 team ahead of the forthcoming AFCON/CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers?

Bashir Mutyaba: We are going for nothing but trophy since we are the defending champions. We have no shortcut. We need to ensure that first of all we win the championship as well qualify. The coaches are very much aware that their target is to help the team to qualify for the AFCON U17 2021 that will be held in Morocco.

Comment about age cheating in Africa and how it has affected the growth of the game?

Bashir Mutyaba: Age cheating has been a challenge for youth football in Africa for several years.

Several teams have been eliminated in championships simply because of age cheating.

FUFA ensures that we eliminate the vice.

Our programs like the FUFA Juniors league help us to screen the players before they engage in any youth competition.

We have set up a data base of information about all youth players in Uganda.

We ensure that we collect information about the players, their age, background to avoid challenges related to the vice that stunts the growth of the game.

Where do you see Uganda in the next five years with these youth projects?

Bashir Mutyaba: FUFA’s vision is to become the number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field.

The youth projects are getting support from the FUFA Executive and FIFA. The future is bright with our youth programmes.

We shall conquer Africa soon.

FUFA Achievements

Youth Football

• Recruited a full time FUFA Youth Football Development Manager to majorly handle the FUFA Youth Project that has the element of Youth Competitions (FUFA U17 Juniors League, Odilo), Drassroots football, Academies, National Junior teams, National football player development curriculum and Talent Identification.
• Continued to partner and provide technical support to organisers of youth competitions like Copa and Airtel Rising Stars
• Trained over 50 FUFA Juniors League coaches under the FIFA Youth Coaches Programme
• Entered Teams for all International Youth Football Tournaments ( CECAFA, CAF and FIFA)
• Created a pool of 400 players who feature in the FUFA Juniors League every season.
• Over 150 players have graduated from the FUFA Juniors League to the Senior (Professionals Leagues). 
• The collection of players’ data at various tournaments has reduced the vice of age cheating in our competitions.
• Introduction of National Football player Development curriculum
• Creation of FUFA Registered Academy Rules and Regulations
• Establishment of a Talent Identification system.
• Champions of CECAFA U17 CAF Zonal qualifiers
• Qualified for AFCON U17 in 2018 for the very first time in Ugandan football history.
• Champions of the inaugural CECAFA U15 Championship 2019
• Bridged the gap between Uganda Youth Football Association and FUFA
• Provided Technical and Financial support to organizers of youth football competitions
• Established pilot projects for U15 League in Kampala and Buganda regions
• Decentralization of the FUFA Juniors League to regional level to attract more youth players, youth coaches thus enhancing development of youth football country wide.

AFCON U-20 Qualifiers (CECAFA Zone):

South Sudan Vs Uganda – Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha (4 PM)

*Live Commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m

The Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso has named the starting XI against South Sudan in the AFCON U-20 (CECAFA Zone) qualifier.

Jack Komakech starts between the posts with a three man defence of captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Kenneth Ssemakula and Musa Ramathan.

A compact midfield of four has Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga and Azizi Kayondo.

The forwards selected to start the match are Richard Basangwa, Raymond Onyai and Ivan Asaba.

This match kicks off at 4 PM at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha city.

The centre referee is Saddam Houssein Mansour from Djibouti.

Somalia’s Abdi Mohamed Nour and Liban Abdourazak Ahmed from Djibouti are the first and second assistant referees respectively.

The football radio 102.1 FUFA f.m will relay live the proceedings of the game.

Uganda U-20 XI: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Musa Ramathan, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga, Richard Basangwa, Raymond Onyai, Ivan Asaba

Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kafumbe, Isma Mugulusi, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona, Ivan Bogere

Match Officials:

• Centre Referee: Saddam Houssein Mansour (Djibouti)
• Assistant Referee 1: Abdi Mohamed Nour (Somalia)
• Assistant Referee 2: Liban Abdourazak Ahmed (Djibouti)
• Fourth Official: Ahmed Hassan Hussein Ahmed (Somalia)
• Commissioner: Omar Mohamoud Nor (Somalia)
• Referee Assessor: Leslie Leonard Liunda (Tanzania)
• General Coordinator: Baraka Kizuguto (Tanzania)
• Technical Study Group: Tewodros Franco Karoni (Ethiopia)
• Media Officer: Ramadhani Kibuga (Burundi)
• Security Officer: Hashim Abdallah (Tanzania)
• Assistant General Coordinator: Yacoub Ali Elmi (Djibouti)

COMPETITION: U-20 Total CAF Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers

DATE: 23 November – 05, December 2020

HOST: Tanzania.

Group A: Tanzania, Somalia and Djibouti

Group B: Burundi, South Sudan and Uganda

Group C: Ethiopia, Kenya and Sudan

Uganda Hippos Head Coach, Morley Byekwaso has maintained Gavin Kizito Mugweri as captain of the team.

The development comes as the Uganda U20 preparers to take part at the U20 AFCON Zonal Qualifiers Tourney that commences on Monday.

Byekwaso believes Mugweri who plies his trade at SC Villa has leadership skills and he is a player that can motivate the rest of the team.

”I have looked at the player’s quality and his leadership skills to take the team ahead. He will carry the responsiblity of captaining the team. I have confidence and belief in him’ Byekwaso stated.

It should be noted that Mugweri was captain of the Uganda U17 (Cubs) team that featured at the 2018 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

He also served in the same role last year at the CECAFA U20 Tournament held in Uganda.

Byekwaso travelled to Tanzania with a squad of 20 players and thinks the team will do well during the tournament and his primary target being to take them to the final. 

‘My primary target just like any other Ugandan is to see that the team reaches to the final of this tournament. If this is achieved, we shall be rest assured of the ticket to play in the AFCON final tournament in Mauritania.’ he added.

The Coach said the squad of 20 players that he selected has worked hard and they will make the country proud.

The tournament runs from November 23, to December 5, in Tanzania.

The Hippos will face South Sudan in the first group game on November 23, at 4pm.

Meanwhile the team is accommodated at Premier Palace Hotel, Arusha.

The team had the first light training at 3pm on Saturday, 21st November 2020.

 The U-20 qualifiers will see 11 countries competing. Hosts Tanzania has been placed in group A with Somalia and Djibouti, while Burundi, South Sudan and Uganda are in group B.

Ethiopia plays in group C with Kenya and Sudan.

Competition: U20 Total CAF AFCON Zonal Qualifiers

Host: Tanzania, Arusha

Dates: 23rd November – 6th December, 2020

Uganda Hippos’ head coach Morley Byekwaso has named the final 20 man squad travelling to Arusha city ahead of the U20 Total CAF African Cup of Nations Zonal qualifiers in Tanzania.

The team departs for Tanzania on Friday morning aboard Uganda Airlines via Kenya.

FUFA Executive Committee member Ariga Rasoul Ibrahim is the leader of delegation.

There are three groups with hosts and defending champions Tanzania in group A alongside Somalia and Djibouti.

Group B has Uganda, Eritrea, Burundi and South Sudan whilst group C has Ethiopia, Kenya and Sudan.

Officials

1. Leader of Delegation: Ariga Rasoul Ibrahim
2. Head coach: Byekwaso Morley
3. Fitness coach: Felix Ayobo
4. Goalkeeping coach: Kiggundu Billy
5. Team Coordinator: Namusisi Joan
6. Team Doctor: Katumba Yahaya
7. Kits Manager: Bumpenje Frank
8. Media Officer :Mpagi Farid

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Players:

1. Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala
2. Bbosa Richard
3. Kayondo Abdu Aziizi
4. Musa Ramathan
5. Kizito Mugweri Gavin
6. Semakula Kenneth
7. Mugulusi Isma
8. Sserwadda Steven
9. Bogere Ivan
10. Bukenya Joseph Kizza
11. Asaba Ivan
12. Kafumbe Joseph
13. Onyai Raymond
14. Mulindi Ashiraf
15. Byaruhanga Bobosi
16. Basangwa Richard
17. Wabyoona Faisal
18. Yiga Najib
19. Komakech Jack
20. Ssali Alpha Thierry

Friendly Match: KCCA 2-1 Uganda Hippos

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Football Club played against Uganda U-20 (The Hippos) for the second time in a week at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo on Tuesday, November 17, 2020.

The Uganda Hippos team took the lead through an own goal by Herbert Achai, who diverted Raymond Derrick Onyai’s cross from the left.

The juniors played the entire game with a man less after a red card to left back Azizi Kayondo as early as the third half.

Julius Poloto, the KCCA captain missed the opportunity to bring the game level when he missed a penalty as goalkeeper Jack Komakech was equal to the task.

KCCA reacted strongly in the second half, scoring through second half substitute Dennis Iguma and Samson Andrew Kigozi.

Both teams made a couple of changes to grant game time to the various people at their disposal.

The Uganda U-20 team is preparing for the CECAFA U-20 championship that will be staged in Arusha, Tanzania (23^rd November to 6^th December 2020).

The Hippos head coach Morley Byekwaso is expected to name the final traveling team on Wednesday, 18th November 2020 before the team departs the following day.

Team Line Ups:

KCCA XI: Ali Mwirusi (G.K), Samuel Kato, Peter Magambo, Herbert Achai, Ashraf Mugume, Samson Andrew Kigozi, Julius Poloto, Dominic Ayella, Kezironi Kizito, Sadat Anaku, Moses Aliro

Subs: Dennis Iguma, Fillbert Obenchan, Moses Kalanzi, Jerome Otim

Uganda U20: Jack Komakech (G.K), Steven Sserwadda, Aziz Kayondo, Joseph Kafumbe, Kenneth Ssemakula, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa,  Bobosi Byaruhanga, Derrick Raymond Onyai, Najib Yiga, Derrick Kakooza

Subs: Dennis Ssenyondwa (G.K), Wilber Wamala, Robert Kitabalwa, Richard Bbosa, Ivan Eyam, Ashraf Mulinde, Faisal Wabyona, Andrew Kawooya, Ivan Bogere, Alpha Ssali

Practice Match: Hippos 5-2 Cubs

Uganda Hippos (U-20) overcame the Cubs (U-17) 5-2 during a practice match played at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru, Buikwe on Sunday.

The Hippos recovered from a goal down to win in style ahead of the Total CAF U-20 Zonal Qualification tourney that is set to kick off on 23rd November – 06th December 2020 in Arusha, Tanzania. 

Attacking midfielder Travis Mutyaba gave the Cubs the lead on 22 minutes to boss the half time 1-0.

The second stanza of the game witnessed the U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso introduce a fresh team that injected life back to normal to their side. 

Richard Basangwa opened up the scoring touch for the Hippos in the 66th minute.

Four minutes later, he had his second goal as the Hippos took the lead. 

Having picked the scoring momentum in the course of the game, Derrick Kakooza scored the third one from the left flank .

Meanwhile, Derrick Raymond Onyai  and Yiga Nagib netted the other two goals in quick succession coming in the 84th and 86th minutes respectively to give Morley’s side a 5-1 comfortable lead. 

Abasi Kyeyune scored a long range propeller outside box to try to narrow the gap but their effort was not enough to get them back in the game before match day center referee blew the final whistle.

The U-20 qualifiers will see 11 countries competing.

Hosts Tanzania has been placed in group A with Somalia, Rwanda and Djibouti, while Burundi, Eritrea, South Sudan and Uganda are in group B. Ethiopia plays in group C with Kenya and Sudan.

Another COVID-19 Testing moment for Hippos:

Prior to the departure to Tanzania for the tournament, the team will once again go for a mandatory Covid 19 test on November 17 in the morning hours.

This will guarantee that some of the tournament’s and travel Covid 19 regulations and standard operating procedures are met.

U20 Starting XI:

Jack Komakech (Gk), Kenneth Ssemakula, Sunday Ohio, Richard Boss,  Andrew Kawoya, Ivan Eyamu, Joseph Bukenya,  Ashiraf Mulindi,  Faisal Wabyona, Alpha Ssali Thierry, Ivan Bogere.

U17 Starting XI:

Abdul Magada (gk), Vincent Milena,  Juma Ibrahim, Peter Gover, Pius Sebulime,  Yasin Mukiibi, David Bawunda,  Issa Bugembe,  Travis Mutyaba,  Moses Mawa, Edwin Opaala Mukasa.

U20 Substitutes

Dennis Sendyowa, Musa Ramathan,  Joseph Kafumbe,  Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Aziz Kayondo, Nagib Yiga, Babosi Byaruhanga, Raymond Onyayi, Robert Kitabalwa,  Steven Sserwada, Derrick Kakooza, Umar Lutalo,  Ivan Asaba,  Jamal Masiko, Richard Basangwa, Wilber Wamala. 

U17 Substitutes

Henry Mwebe (Gk), Humphrey Oyirwoth,  Enoch Luyima, Fahad Jumbo, Samir Mudiba, Basil Tenywa Tamu, Ronald Madoi, Damon Mukisa,  Shafik Waswanga, Faisal Kifumba, Godfrey Sekobengo, Christopher Nyongesa,  Shafik Magogo, Allan Odongo,  Ivan Ainimbabazi,  Abasi Kyeyune, Opio Otim.