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
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
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)
Thursday, September 2, 2021: Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes (4 PM)
At Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi – Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The starting line-up for Uganda Cranes against Kenya in the group E FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifier has been confirmed by the head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic.
Charles Lukwago is in goal with Denis Iguma and Isaac Muleme at right and left full back roles respectively.
Halid Lwaliwa and Murushid Juuko are the two central defenders.
Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga and Moses Waiswa Ndhondhi play as the three central midfielders.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Milton Karisa and Joseph Benson Ochaya are at the fore-front on the attack force.
The other twelve players are on the bench and will be introduced according to demand as deemed by the technical team.
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Charles Lukwago (18), Denis Iguma (12), 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)
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 (21), Enock Walusimbi (16)
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)
Thursday, 2nd September 2021 – Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes
At Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi (4 PM)
Kenya Harambee Stars entertain Uganda Cranes in the group E of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers.
This match will be played at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on Thursday, 2nd September 2021.
Uganda eyes for a victory and close up Mali who won their opening game against Rwanda on 1st September 2021 in Morocco.
Head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic and team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi expressed their readiness to face Kenya and come top with maximum points.
Uganda Cranes captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and head coach Micho at Nyayo National Stadium, NairobiThe last training session for Uganda Cranes at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi
‘We have assembled a team that will compete. Derbies are always determined by the slightest details. We want to pay keen attention to such details and win the game’ Micho noted.
Team captain Okwi maintained that football is a game of collective responsibility and thus preached teamwork.
‘As we face Kenya, I am captain and only wear the arm. But, the rest of my teammates are all captains as we fight for our country. We seek a good start as we face Kenya on Thursday’ Okwi observed.
The Uganda Cranes players stretch during the last training session at Nyayo National Stadium
Uganda Cranes had pitched camp in Ethiopia for acclimatization and held an international build up against the hosts staged at the Bahir Dar International Stadium.
Yunus Sentamu scored Uganda Cranes’ consolation during the match that ended 2-1; from which Micho picked key learning points.
‘A football game is far better than 30 training sessions. We have seen where we need to improve coming to the Kenya and Mali games’ Micho observed.
The match will be officiated by FIFA Referees from Sudan.
The official pre-match meeting at Nyayo National Stadium, NairobiThe show off of both team jerseys during the official pre-match meeting at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on the match eve
Uganda Cranes:
Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Chippa United, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Express, Uganda)
Thursday, 2nd September 2021 – Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes
*At Nyayo International Stadium, Nairobi (4 PM)
Uganda Cranes arrived in Kenya on Tuesday morning from Ethiopia where the team had pitched camp for acclimatization and an international build up match at the Bahir Dar Stadium.
The team arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, received by the advance party head Paul Mukatabala before they checked in at the Tamarind Tree Hotel.
Hours later, the players were subjected to activation training at the team hotel (in the playground and gym) for stretching the bodies before they trained for about two hours at the Utalii College Sports Ground.
Here are some of the picture moments from the sessions.
Midfielder Khalid Aucho jumps during the training sessionCoach Micho at the training sessionFitness trainer Felix Ayobo monitors Moses Waiswa jumpingFred Kajoba Kisitu briefs the goalkeepers before start of the training session. Isima Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa and Charles Lukwago are the three goalkeepers in campAssistant coach Moses Basena in trainingIssa Magoola Kakaire (Leader of Delegation), Paul Mukatabala (National teams’ officer and advance party head to Kenya) with the team manager Geofrey Massa watching the the training session at Utalii College Sports GroundFitness and Performance director Franck demonstrates to Abdu Azizi Kayondo and Ibrahim OritIsima Watenga and Richard Basangwa in the Tamarind Tree Hotel gymHead coach Micho with the players during a theory session at Tamarind Tree HotelSome of the players stretch their bodies at the Tamarind Tree Hotel
Uganda Cranes Delegation in Nairobi, Kenya:
Players:
Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Chippa United, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Express, Uganda)
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifier (Group E): Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes
Thursday, 2nd September 2021 – Nyayo International Stadium, Nairobi
The Uganda Cranes delegation is in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi of the crucial FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 group E qualifier against the hosts.
The delegation reached Jomo Kenyatta International Airport from Addis Ababa aboard Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 308.
At the Airport, they were received by the national teams’ officer who was the advance party in Nairobi for the team; Paul Mukatabala.
Uganda Cranes video analyst Addis Worku is welcomed by Paul Mukatabala at Jomo Kenyatta International AirportUganda Cranes officials wheel off the luggage at the Airport
The team checked in at Tamarind Tree Hotel, along Langata Road in Nairobi and will be expected to train later in the afternoon.
Twenty players who left the Bahir Dar base were joined by Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Žižkov, Czech Republic), Mustapha Kizza (CF Montréal, Canada), and Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt), all who joined the team in Nairobi.
Addressing the media moments after arrival at the Airport, head coach Milutin Sredojevic anticipated an explosive match that will be determined by the slightest details.
Checking in at Tamarind Tree Hotel
‘This will be one more episode of unending derby between Uganda and Kenya. I am happy to be coming here in Nairobi. It is a measurement of test and character. It will be a very tough match. There is too much at stake. It is very hard to play against players that you know. We shall be playing a team that has very big advantage. Our league is in recess because of the off season. It will be a match where small details will decide. We shall be doing everything that those details go our way.’ Micho noted.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi expressed readiness to face Kenya in the traditional derby encounter.
‘We are set to face Kenya in this do or die game. We need maximum points to have a good start in the qualifiers’ Okwi told the media.
The leader of delegation Issa Magoola Kakaire, also an Executive Committee member of FUFA and a delegation expressed delight upon the leadership of the FUFA president Hon Eng. Moses Magogo, the Government, technical members, players, sponsors and other key partners in the preparatory process of the national team.
‘I want to thank the FUFA leadership right from the top where the president Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo for the wise mentorship skills. In a special way, I applaud the coaches, players, media, sponsors and other partners. I thank the Ethiopia Football Football who hosted us well while in Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa. Also, the Kenyan Federation has done well to recieve’ Magoola expressed.
Issa Magoola Kakaire, a FUFA Executive committee Member
The team will rest until afternoon for the first training session in Kenya.
The match against Kenya is on Thursday, 2nd September 2021 at 4pm
Uganda Cranes players in Nairobi, Kenya:
Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Chippa United, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Express, Uganda)
Uganda Cranes delegation that traveled to Bahir Dar city has traveled to the capital city Addis Ababa, about 490 Kilometres.
Before departure, head coach Milutin Sredojevic and the rest of the members of the technical team convened with the players for a general meeting as well as a soul soothing session.
Five players who have been with the team in Bahir Dar were released. Midfielder Tadeo Lwanga is ruled out with injury.
The other four are; Martin Kizza, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Abdu Lumala and Kenneth Ssemakula.
The team departs for Addis Ababa aboard Ethiopian Airlines at 6:30 PM (ET 147).
The delegation will then link up from Addis Ababa to Nairobi (ET 308) at 11:15 PM.
Advance party head Paul Mukatabala is already in Nairobi to receive the team at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Meanwhile, three players Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Žižkov, Czech Republic), Mustapha Kizza (CF Montréal, Canada), and Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt) are expected to join the team in Nairobi.
The Head coach is optimistic that the team will perform well after the international build up against Ethiopia.
‘The time in Ethiopia has helped us a lot to acclimatize to the weather, like is in Nairobi and also give the players competitive match experience. We expect a good game against Kenya’ Micho stated.
The match against Kenya is on Thursday, 2nd September 2021 at 4pm
Uganda Cranes Delegation:
Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Chippa United, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Express, Uganda)
Defenders: Enock Walusimbi (Express, Uganda), Joseph Benson Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers, Uganda), Murushid Juuko (Express, Uganda), Innocent Wafula (Mbarara City, Uganda), Denis Iguma (KCCA, Uganda), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa, Uganda), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers, Uganda)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Young Africans, Tanzania), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers, Uganda), Moses Waiswa (Super Sport United, South Africa), Ibrahim Orit (Vipers, Uganda),
Forwards: Yunus Sentamu (Vipers, Uganda), Milton Karisa (Vipers, Uganda), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, Richard Basangwa (Vipers, Uganda), Steven Desse Mukwala (URA, Uganda)
Expected to link up in Nairobi: Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Žižkov, Czech Republic), Mustapha Kizza (CF Montréal, Canada), Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt)
International Build Up: Ethiopia 2-1 Uganda Cranes
Uganda Cranes picked up important lessons from the 2-1 defeat at the hands of Ethiopia during the international build up match played at the Bahir Dar Stadium on Sunday.
A goal in each half from Nasir Abubeker and Abel Yelew inspired the Walia Stars to victory.
Second half substitute Yunus Sentamu pulled back a consolation for the visitors.
Sentamu was one of the six players introduced in the second half.
Yunus Sentamu during the game
At the kick off of the final stanza, Sentamu replaced Abdu Lumala, goalkeeper Charles Lukwago took over Isima Watenga’s slot and Enock Walusimbi was rested for Ibrahim Orit.
Midfielder Khalid Aucho later paved way for youngster Bobosi Byaruhanga in the 63rd minute.
Six minutes later, captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi was withdrawn and Richard Basangwa took over before the final change was made as Moses Waiswa got displaced by Shafik Kuchi Kagimu.
Six players were unused substitutes; goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Steven Desse Mukwala and Innocent Wafula.
Two others; Tadeo Lwanga and Martin Kizza were not considered for the match due to injury and mere rest respectively.
Fitness coach Franck Plaine leads the warm up session at Bahir Dar International StadiumMicho being interviewed by the media at Bahir Dar International Stadium after the build up game
Head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic acknowledged the value of this match that painted the real picture of the expectations from the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Kenya and Mali.
‘The match was very important as it pointed out to the test of the players. We got the answers because in football you either win or learn the lesson. We saw shortcomings of the players and what they are capable of and how best to improve before the FIFA World Cup qualifiers’ Micho stated.
The head coach’s message was re-echoed aloud by the captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi.
‘The game against Ethiopia exposed us and it has given us the due challenge on how to improve amicably before the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Kenya and Mali are not exactly like Ethiopia but we shall further check ourselves’ Okwi disclosed moments after the match.
Milton Karisa, one of the few players who lasted for the entire duration of the match was humbled for the challenge faced in thy midst.
‘Fine, we took a long time without playing competitively because of the national lockdown back home, but, we need to stand up and rise highest’ Karisa stated.
Uganda Cranes delegation sets off for Nairobi on Monday evening aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
Advance party head Paul Mukatabala is already in Nairobi ready to receive the team.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Ethiopia: [L-R Standing] – Khalid Aucho, Halid Lwaliwa, Denis Iguma, Murushid Juuko, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Isima Watenga and Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain). Front Row – Moses Waiswa, Milton Karisa, Abdu Lumala and Enock Walusimbi
Uganda Cranes XI: Isima Watenga (46’ Charles Lukwago), Enock Walusimbi (’46 Ibrahim Orit), Joseph Benson Ochaya, Halid Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Denis Iguma, Khalid Aucho (63’ Bobosi Byaruhanga), Moses Waiswa (84’ Shafik Kuchi Kagimu), Abdu Lumala (46’ Yunus Sentamu), Milton Karisa, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain (69’ Richard Basangwa)
Subs Not Used: Joel Mutakubwa (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Steven Desse Mukwala, Innocent Wafula
Subs: Charles Lukwago (G.K), Joel Mutakubwa (G.K), Yunus Sentamu, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Richard Basangwa, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Ibrahim Orit, Steven Desse Mukwala, Innocent Wafula
Not available: Tadeo Lwanga and Martin Kizza
Match officials:
Center Referee: Haileyesus Bazezew (PhD) – Ethiopia
International Build up match: Sunday, 29th August 2021
Ethiopia Vs Uganda – Bahir Dar International Stadium (2 PM)
*Follow Live updates on all FUFA Social Media Platforms
All is set for the international build up between hosts Ethiopia and Uganda Cranes at the Bahir Dar International Stadium on Sunday, 29th August 2021 at 2 PM.
This match comes at an opportune time when the two countries are preparing for their respective FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar qualifiers.
Uganda Cranes delegation arrived in Ethiopia on Thursday morning and held training at the Bahir Dar International stadium to acclimatize to the cold weather conditions like the present situation in Nairobi.
Abdul Aziizi Kayondo taps the ball during a ball work session on Saturday afternoon
Head coach Milutin Sredojevic believes that build up will help the team prepare for the Kenya and Mali clashes in Nairobi and St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende respectively.
‘The players are physically and mentally prepared for the international build up. This will be a perfect build up for us as we go to the Kenya and Mali clashes’ Micho stated.
There are 25 players in camp at the Olive Hotel and Spa base will be considered as deemed by the technical team.
The team will depart for Nairobi, Kenya on Monday evening and shall be expected to start training on Tuesday.
The game against Kenya shall be played on Thursday, 2nd September 2021 at the Nyayo National Stadium whilst the Mali clash comes four days later at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Uganda Cranes team trained for the first time in Ethiopia at the Bahir Dar International Stadium on Friday evening under chilly weather conditions.
Head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic and his assistants took the players through the paces for one and a half hours of the session that had lots of ball work.
The five added players; Waisswa Moses, Taddeo Lwanga , Aucho Khalid, goalkeeper Isima Watenga and left back Joseph Ochaya all trained with the rest of the 20 players who traveled from Uganda.
L-R: Khalid Aucho, Joseph Benson Ochaya and Tadeo Lwanga at the team hotel in the morningSouth Africa based Moses Waiswa and Isima Watenga before the session at Bahir Dar Stadium
Before the afternoon training, the team was engaged in theory-demonstration sessions conducted at the team hotel in the morning.
The coach was impressed by the response of all players in the training session.
‘The response for each of the players on the players is good. You have showed patriotism, character and the fighting spirit.’ Micho spoke as he commended the players.
Uganda Cranes training at Bahir Dar International Stadium on Friday evening
The team is accommodated at Olive Hotel and Spa in Bahir Dar city.
Training resumes on Saturday at the same venue before Sunday’s international build up match with Ethiopia.
Uganda Cranes players group up before start of the training sesion at Bahir Dar StadiumL-R Team Physiotherapist Ivan Ssewanyana, Leader of Delegation Issa Magoola Kakaire with Fred Kajoba Kisitu (goalkeeping coach)
Traveling Delegation:
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Isa Magoola
Head coach: Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic
Assistant coach: Moses Basena
Goalkeeping coach: Fred Kajoba Kisitu
Performance Coach: Franck Plaine
Fitness Coach: Felix Ayobo
Team Coordinator: Geofrey Massa
National Teams’ Officer: Paul Mukatabala
Team Physician: Emmanuel Nakabago
Team Physiotherapist: Ivan Ssewanyana
Kit Manager 1: Ayub Balyejusa
Kit Manager 2: Samuel Mulondo
Media Officer: David Isabirye
Players: Charles Lukwago, Joel Mutakubwa, Enock Walusimbi, Innocent Esimu Wafula, Abdu Aziizi Kayondo, Halidi Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Gavin Mugweri Kizito, Kenneth Ssemakula, Denis Iguma, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Steven Dese Mukwala, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Richard Basangwa, Yunus Junior Sentamu, Abdu Lumala, Martin Kizza, Aucho Khalid, Moses Waiswa, Tadeo Lwanga, Ochaya Joseph, Isima Watenga
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has named five more players who will join the 20 already in Ethiopia for the preparations and kick off of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers.
Midfielders Waisswa Moses, Taddeo Lwanga , Aucho Khalid, goalkeeper Isima Watenga and left back Joseph Ochaya, will join the players already at Olive Hotel and Spa in Bahir Dar city.
‘Those are the players who will join us in Ethiopia. We want to make use of the camp in Bahir Dar as we continue with the preparations’ Micho confirmed.
The foreign based players are expected to start arriving on Thursday and will be considered for the international friendly match against Ethiopia on Sunday.
The team rested on Thursday after arriving early in the day from Uganda but a light recovery session has been lined up to restore the bodies from the fatigue.
Traveling Delegation:
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Isa Magoola
Head coach: Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic
Assistant coach: Moses Basena
Goalkeeping coach: Fred Kajoba Kisitu
Performance Coach: Franck Plaine
Fitness Coach: Felix Ayobo
Team Coordinator: Geofrey Massa
National Teams’ Officer: Paul Mukatabala
Team Physician: Emmanuel Nakabago
Team Physiotherapist: Ivan Ssewanyana
Kit Manager 1: Ayub Balyejusa
Kit Manager 2: Samuel Mulondo
Media Officer: David Isabirye
Players: Charles Lukwago, Joel Mutakubwa, Enock Walusimbi, Innocent Esimu Wafula, Abdu Aziizi Kayondo, Halidi Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Gavin Mugweri Kizito, Kenneth Ssemakula, Denis Iguma, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Steven Dese Mukwala, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Richard Basangwa, Yunus Junior Sentamu, Abdu Lumala, Martin Kizza, Aucho Khalid, Moses Waiswa, Tadeo Lwanga, Ochaya Joseph, Isima Watenga
Early Thursday, 26th August 2021, Uganda Cranes embarked on the journey from the team camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi to Entebbe International Airport with the final destination to Bahar Dar city.
Traveling aboard Ethiopian Airlines on flight ET 339, the 33 man delegation arrived at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport at 5:00 AM with an hour stop over before connecting to Bahar Dar via another Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 126.
The team checked in at Olive Hotel and Spa Hotel in Bahar Dar and will have a light recover session (with a lot of body massaging and stretching) later in the afternoon in preparation for the upcoming international friendly match against hosts Ethiopia on Sunday, 29th August 2021.
Uganda Cranes is preparing for two FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers against Kenya (2nd September 2021) away at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi with another duel against Mali on 6th September 2021 at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Here are some of the picture moments:
Issa Magoola Kakaire, a FUFA Executive Committee member is leader of delegation of the team in EthiopiaRichard Basangwa wheels off his luggageExperienced defender Murushid Juuko enjoys the moment on the escalatorLoading of the team equipmentShafik Kuchi KagimuPlayers getting abreast of global issues via their cell phones at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport terminalThe players as they left Entebbe International AirportHead coach Milutin Sredojevic with the General Secretary of the Ethiopian Football AssociationTeam manager Geofrey Massa being subjected to the temperature testThe Ugandan delegation was warmly welcomed in Bahar DarExpress goalkeeper Joel MutakubwaUganda Cranes players at the reception of Olive Hotel and Spa in Bahar Dar CityL-R: Moses Basena (assistant coach), Issa Magoola Kakaire (FUFA Executive Committee member) and Paul Mukatabala (National Teams’ officer) discuss about somethingFitness coach Felix Ayobo being testedFranck Plaine (Performance coach) wheels his luggage upon arrival in Bahar Dar
Traveling Delegation:
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Isa Magoola
Head coach: Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic
Assistant coach: Moses Basena
Goalkeeping coach: Fred Kajoba Kisitu
Performance Coach: Franck Plaine
Fitness Coach: Felix Ayobo
Team Coordinator: Geofrey Massa
National Teams’ Officer: Paul Mukatabala
Team Physician: Emmanuel Nakabago
Team Physiotherapist: Ivan Ssewanyana
Kit Manager 1: Ayub Balyejusa
Kit Manager 2: Samuel Mulondo
Media Officer: David Isabirye
Players: Charles Lukwago, Joel Mutakubwa, Enock Walusimbi, Innocent Esimu Wafula, Abdu Aziizi Kayondo, Halidi Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Gavin Mugweri Kizito, Kenneth Ssemakula, Denis Iguma, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Steven Dese Mukwala, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Richard Basangwa, Yunus Junior Sentamu, Abdu Lumala, Martin Kizza
A thirty three (33) man delegation of Uganda Cranes to Ethiopia departed for Addis Ababa on Thursday morning (2.45am) aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
They are expected to play an international build up on Sunday, 29th August 2021, in preparation for the clash against Kenya clash in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 group E qualifier on 2nd September 2021.
Head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic confirmed the list of players, majorly from the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi leads the team to Ethiopia with Egyptian based winger Abdu Lumala also named in the squad having arrived in Uganda on Wednesday afternoon and joined camp immediately.
‘We have prepared well since day one of training. The response of the players has been top notch and we are ready to give our best’ Team Captain Emmanuel Okwi disclosed after the team’s last training at the African Bible University of Uganda play ground in Lubowa on Wednesday evening.
While in Ethiopia, more players will join the camp. Khalid Aucho and Taddeo Lwanga who ply their trade in Tanzania will will join the camp today.
FUFA Executive Committee member Isa Magoola is the Leader of Delegation.
Traveling Delegation:
Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Isa Magoola
Head coach: Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic
Assistant coach: Moses Basena
Goalkeeping coach: Fred Kajoba Kisitu
Performance Coach: Franck Plaine
Fitness Coach: Felix Ayobo
Team Coordinator: Geofrey Massa
National Teams’ Officer: Paul Mukatabala
Team Physician: Emmanuel Nakabago
Team Physiotherapist: Ivan Ssewanyana
Kit Manager 1: Ayub Balyejusa
Kit Manager 2: Samuel Mulondo
Media Officer: David Isabirye
Players: Charles Lukwago, Joel Mutakubwa, Enock Walusimbi, Innocent Esimu Wafula, Abdu Aziizi Kayondo, Halidi Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Gavin Mugweri Kizito, Kenneth Ssemakula, Denis Iguma, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Steven Dese Mukwala, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Richard Basangwa, Yunus Junior Sentamu, Abdu Lumala, Martin Kizza
The president of Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) Gianni Infantino has congratulated Hon. Moses Hassim Magogo upon re-election as President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FIFA).
In a detailed letter, Infantino lauds Hon. Magogo for the special deeds and important contribution to the development of the football sport and the promotion of its values in Uganda.
Here is the detailed letter (Verbatim):
Please accept my warmest greetings and sincerest congratulations for your re-election as President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) for a four-year term, at the FUFA Ordinary General Assembly 2021 held on Saturday, 21 August 2021 in Mbale City. I would be grateful if you could please convey my felicitations to the Vice-Presidents and the Members of the Executive Committee elected with you, while I seize the opportunity to thank you for all your efforts, your work and your important contribution to the development of our sport and the promotion of its values in Uganda. Sending you and your team my best wishes for this new mandate and every success for all the challenges that lie ahead, I look forward, dear President, to continuing to work with you.
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim was re-elected as the FUFA President for the next four years (2021-2025) during the 97th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly at Wash and Wills Hotel in Mbale City on 21st August 2021.
Magogo who is also a Member of Parliament for Budiope East, Buyende District was unopposed and was unanimously voted by acclamation by the 83 that attended the Assembly.
Across the divide; congratulatory messages have endlessly flowed from various sports associations, national football federations, corporate companies, media firms and several personalities.
www.fufa.co.ug captured some of the many messages;
EARLIER: Unopposed Budiope East MP, Moses Magogo Hassim was "dully elected" as the FUFA President for the next four years (2021-2025) at the 97th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly in Mbale City. #MonitorSport#MonitorUpdatespic.twitter.com/bZjHa7x30r
UPDATE🚨 Unopposed Budiope East MP, Moses Magogo Hassim was "dully elected" as the FUFA President for the next four years (2021-2025) at the 97th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly in Mbale City. #943qfmupdatespic.twitter.com/2HLH3bKMUk
Obem-bem anyen me @OfficialFUFA pi mwaka 2021-2025 iyonge year ame otimere ikare me gure adit number 97th i Mbale. Dan Obote kede owote ni, alegi wu winyu aber. pic.twitter.com/ziPbnFqX8t
@OfficialFUFA@UPL Congratulations to the new team, how do we expand the Premier league to have more representation from the new cities. More fans more money, more geographical coverage across the country, better deal for the sponsors https://t.co/i5eUzHX1QH
