FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: 102.1 FUFA fm

All set for the 2016 CECAFA Women kick off

The Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) women football championship will kick off on Sunday 11th September at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru.

While addressing the sports scribes, Chairman Local organizing Committee Rogers Byamukama confirmed that all the teams had arrived in the country including Rwanda and Ethiopia who jetted in on Saturday morning.

‘Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Zanzibar, Tanzania are already here in Jinja but Ethiopia and Rwanda flew in this morning and will join us in Jinja’ said Byamukama

“We are confident we shall have a successful tournament’ added Byamukama.

He also assured teams and the community of the tight but flexible security during the 10 day tournament. “Security is guaranteed by Uganda Police before during and after the tournament stretching up to team hotels.”

Some of the media personnel who attended the Saturday press conference at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

He also called upon fans to go in big numbers to watch their respective teams.

‘All football fans willing to watch the CECAFA Women championship at the FUFA Technical Center will enter free of charge for all the games’ Chairman Local Organizing Committee.

Secretary General CECAFA speaks

‘I would like to thank FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo for host the tournament. There are challenges but we shall succeed at the end of this event’ said CECAFA Secretary General Musonye.

Musonye also promised fans the best football from the seven teams.

L-R: CECAFA Secretary General Nicholas Musonyi, Rogers Byamukama (2016 CECAFA women local organization Committee chairman) and Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel (FUFA International Match Organization Committee chairman and FUFA Executive Member)

Arrival of Countries

Zanzibar and Kenya were the first countries to arrive in the country on Thursday and Friday respectively.

Burundi, Tanzania, arrived on Friday while Rwanda and Ethiopia are expected by 5pm to be in Jinja

The 11 days’ tournament gets underway on Sunday, 11th September 2016 with a double header between Burundi and Zanzibar (2 p.m) before the mouth-watering Uganda versus Kenya clash at 4 p.m.

MAIN PHOTO: L-R – Agnes Mugena, a member on the FUFA Executive committee, Asuman Lubowa (FUFA Technical Director), CECAFA Secretary General Nicholas Musonyi, Rogers Byamukama (2016 CECAFA women local organization Committee chairman) and Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel (FUFA International Match Organization Committee chairman and FUFA Executive Member) during the press conference held at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru on Saturday morning

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

September 10, 2016
UPDATE: Press Conference; 2016 CECAFA women championship
The CECAFA Women Championship due to kick off on Sunday 11th till 20th September, is taking shape with the final stage preparations.
On behalf of the Local Organising Committee Chairman Mr. Rogers Byamukama, Kindly note this important communication;
- CECAFA Women Championship Press conference will be held on Saturday 10th September 10 am at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru to give full details about the tournament. It will be addressed by the CECAFA Secretary General Mr. Musonye Nicholas, LOC Organising Committee Chairman Byamukama and CECAFA Media Officer Mr. Mulindwa Rogers.
- The female referees to officiate at the CECAFA Women Championship will undergo a fitness test on Saturday 10th September, 2016 starting 7am at Mandela National stadium, Namboole. After the exercise, they will head to Jinja.
- Zanzibar, Kenya and Uganda are already in Jinja. The rest of the teams will arrive tomorrow.
- It will be FREE entrance to all fans for the entire tournament
September 9, 2016
2016 CECAFA Women Championship: Free entrance to all football fans at Njeru

2016 CECAFA Women Championship: 11th – 20th September (All Matches at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru)

GROUP A: Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Zanzibar

GROUP B: Ethiopia, Tanzania, Rwanda

The Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) women football championship will kick off at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.

FUFA has confirmed there is free entrance for all the football fans willing to watch the games that return after a 30 year absence.

“All football fans willing to watch the CECAFA Women championship at the FUFA Technical Center will enter free of charge for all the games” FUFA Communications manager, Ahmed Hussein notes.

Arrival of Countries:

Zanzibar and Kenya were the first countries to arrive in the country on Thursday and Friday respectively.

They will be followed by Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and Ethiopia in that order.

The 11 days’ tournament gets underway on Sunday, 11th September 2016 with a double header between Burundi and Zanzibar (2 p.m) before the mouth-watering Uganda versus Kenya clash at 4 p.m.

The tournament was launched at the home of football in Uganda, FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala over two weeks ago by the CECAFA Seceretary General, Nicholas Musonye flanked by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo, the tournament Local Organizing Committee chairman Rogers Byamukama and other members of the LOC.

A seven man Local Organizing Committee (LOC) is chaired by Rogers Byamukama. Others members are Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, Agnes Mugena, Chris Kalibala,Samuel Mpiima, Efrance Nanjego and Ahmed Hussein.

2016 CECAFA Women Football Championship, Rogers Byamukama addresses the media during the tournament launch in Kampala on Monday, 29th August 2016. He assured good preparations in terms of preparations (main playing ground, training grounds, secretariat and hotel facilities)

The tournament gets underway on the 11th September 2016 with Burundi taking on Zanzibar at 2 p.m.

Hosts Uganda will play Kenya in the next fixture on match day one.

I thank Uganda for taking the initiative and being bold enough to bring CECAFA women’s tournament here in Kampala. This is the golden opportunity to revamp women’s football in the CECAFA region.

All the matches will be played at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru with two games running per day.

The last CECAFA women football championship was held in Zanzibar and won by the hosts in 1986.

MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Crested Cranes team that played against Kenya in the International build up in Kisumu

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

September 9, 2016
NCS says FUFA is on the right track following Uganda Cranes qualification to 2017 AFCON Finals

The National Council of sports has assured FUFA for support following Uganda Cranes victory over Comoros that led to the qualification to the 2017 Nations Cup finals in Gabon.

The message was delivered through a letter signed by NCS General Secretary Nicholas Muramagi in which he was congratulating the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo and the entire Uganda Cranes.

Part of the congratulatory message reds;

‘I wish to note that this heroic and memorable performance has come after a good strategic and protracted qualifier campaign, where Team Uganda won two critical away matches against Botswana and Comoros’

The message further reads;

‘This consistency in being victorious by our team is a clear testimony of the talent that abounds in the country and also demonstrates the fact that your Federation is on the right track to push Uganda to be among the top echelons of soccer on the continent and globally’

Muramagi also noted in the congratulatory letter that;

‘I wish to reassure you all that the Government of Uganda shall continue to support FUFA to ensure effective implementation of its programmes. Accordingly, i also wish to pledge our commitment to work with your Federation to ensure that we prepare the team adequately ahead of the Finals in Gabon’

Uganda Cranes defeated Comoros 1-0 to make the finals of the 2017 AFCON.

September 9, 2016
CECAFA Women Championship: Uganda Crested Cranes continue with training, teams due
2016 CECAFA Women Championship:
- 11th – 21st September 2016
- At FUFA Technical Center, Njeru
The Uganda National women football team, Crested Cranes continue with their residential training at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.

The team of 29 players departed Kampala for Njeru on Tuesday and have since intensified their preparations for the tournament.

Under the coaches Majidah Nantandah (head) and Faridah Bulega (assistant coach), the players have since responded well to training.

“The players have all been doing well and it is good we had this training camp” Nantandah stated.

Uganda Crested Cranes players in a cross and head session at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

Jean Seninde who turns out for English Women side, QPR smiles with the rest of the Crested Cranes players after training at Njeru

Meanwhile, team start to arrive in the country. Zanzibar arrived on Thursday night before they were joined by Kenya on Friday morning.

The Crested Cranes will face Kenya on September 11^th in their opening fixture in group A that also has Burundi and Zanzibar.

Rwanda, Ethiopia and Tanzania are in group B.
September 9, 2016
FUFA STATEMENT ON UGANDA CRANES HEAD COACH
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) would like to respond to reports about the Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic’s unpaid dues by stating the following:
- FUFA greatly appreciates and recognises the immense contribution and extra efforts of our national team coach in helping Uganda qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 38 years.
- FUFA indeed owes Milutin Sredojevic unpaid salaries and shares his frustrations over the delay.
- During the costly AFCON 2017 qualification campaign, FUFA prioritised all the meagre resources at its disposal to facilitate requirements for the success of the team and campaign.
- In preparation for the final group D but key match against Comoros, over the last 2 months alone, coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has been paid three times and received all his bonus and allowances entitlements for the AFCON 2017 campaign just like the rest of the team members.
- FUFA is committed to ensuring all his salary arrears are cleared and we are confident this will be handled.
- Coach Micho’s unpaid dues are currently FUFA’s number one priority and the federation is doing everything in its means to raise the funds needed to clear the outstanding amount.
- FUFA and Micho have held meetings in regard to this matter.
- Finally, details of the ongoing contract between FUFA and Cranes coach remain confidential.
It is our Game, It is Our Country.
September 8, 2016
AFCON 2017 Qualification: FUFA Confirms thanksgiving prayers across the country

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has planned for thanksgiving prayers across the country after the successful qualification to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals since 1978.

The prayers according to the FUFA spokesman, Ahmed Hussein will start this Friday through to Saturday and end on Sunday cross all the religious denominations – Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, Born Agains and the Orthodox families.

We are thanking the Lord for granting our heartfelt prayers after holding prayers throughout the campaign.

FUFA remains a God fearing institution and we dedicate all our tasks into hands of the most merciful, most graceful

In Kampala, prayers start this Friday (9th September 2016) at the Wandegeya Mosque, National Mosque – Old Kampala, Ahmadiya Mosque in Wandegeya, Kibuli and many other Houses of worship for the muslim fraternity in Kampala and across the country.

FUFA president addresses the worshipers after prayers on Friday, 2nd September 2016 at Gadafi Mosque in Old Kampala

Uganda Cranes players led by Nicholas Wadada, Kezironi Kizito, Ivan Ntege and officials were part of the worshipers at St Luke Seeta Church of Uganda on 28th August 2016

L-R: 102.1 FUFA f.m staff Hassan Kirunda Kakaire, Saidi Lugolobi, Ivan Ntege, Joseph Nsubuga, Geofrey Sserunkuma and team manager Chrispus Muyinda in earlier prayers

On Saturday (10th September 2016), prayers will continue to the Orthodox family with thanksgiving services at the Kasubi Orthodox Church, Center Church in Makerere and Najjanankumbi.

The following day on Sunday (11th September 2016), there will be prayers at Ndeeba Victory Church, Namirembe Cathedral, St Luke Church of Uganda, Seeta, Rubaga Cathedral,House of Prayer Ministries as well as many other churches in Kampala and across the country.

Uganda Cranes player, Farouk Miya addresses the worshipers last Friday after the prayers. He scored the only goal that broke the jinx that had lasted for over 38 years

FUFA Executive Committee member, Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel hands a Uganda Cranes jersey to Bishop Herbert Salongo Buyondo of Victory Church in Ndeeba during a prayer session on 20th March 2016

Uganda Cranes overcame Comoros 1-0 to finish among the second best countries (alongside Togo) in the qualifiers and qualify for the AFCON finals that will be hosted in Gabon come the year 2017.

September 8, 2016
AUPL results of games played on Tuesday: Lweza, The Saints record away wins

KCCA FC 2-0 Soana

BUL 0-1 The Saints

Bright Stars 0-1 Lweza FC

URA 1-1 Vipers

Express FC 1-1 Onduparaka

Kirinya Jinja SS 0-0 Sadolin

Police 0-0 Proline

Sc Villa 1-0 JMC Hippos

September 6, 2016
PICTORIAL: Uganda Cranes Victory over Comoros stretched to Guvnor

Following Uganda Cranes 1-0 win over Comoros, hence gaining qualification to the 2017 AFCON Finals in Gabon, there was a great moment for players of both teams to kill off some stress.

The victorious and Uganda Cranes and FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo hit the Guvnor with one aim of -dancing.

Check out the pictorial

September 5, 2016
Uganda Cranes qualify to the African Cup of Nations for the first time in 38 years

AFCON QUALIFIERS (Group D Final Matches):

Uganda Cranes 1-0 Comoros

Burkina Faso 2-1 Botswana

Uganda Cranes made history by qualifying to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) come the year 2017 that will be hosted by Gabon.

This was the first qualification achieved since 1978 in Ghana.

In the final group D match played at the fully packed Mandela National Stadium, the Uganda Cranes won 1-0 thanks to Farouk Miya’s 36th minute goal set up by Moses Oloya.

In fact, the home side would have scored more than the successful goal had Joseph Benson Ochaya’s attempt not kissed the woodwork.

Team captain Geofrey Massa also had two missed chances with the on colour right back, Nicholas Wadada missing narrowly from close range.

Airtel Uganda Cheer leaders at the Mandela National stadium, Namboole

First lady, Janet Kataha Museveni was the chief guest on the well attended evening. She was accompanied by the State Minister of Sports Hon. Charles Bakabulindi, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Honanary FUFA President Lawrence Mulindwa among other dignitaries from Central Government, Kingdoms, FUFA Delegates, current and former players and the fans at large.

In the other group D match, Burkina Faso scored a late goal at home against visiting Botswana to qualify alongside Uganda.

Prejuce Nakoulma put Burkina Faso ahead with an 18th minute strike.

Lesego Galenamothale converted a penalty nine minutes from full time but Banou Diawara won it late in stoppage time for the Stallions.

There was a post match press conference attended by the two countries captains and the coach Milutin Sredejovic.

Uganda Cranes captain Geofrey Massa appreciated everyone whose effort can not go unnoticed throughout the qualification campaigns.

Uganda Cranes captain Geofrey Massa (second left) joined by the Comoros skipper Abdou Nadjim with the Senegalese match referees

Massa thanked the current and former players, media, sponsors, partners, FUFA administration and Government.

On the other hand, Micho lauded the effort of players and all stake holders in the football struggle.

The much publicized and well intentioned Project Cameroon 2019 is much alive and qualifying to Gabon 2017 is part of the agenda.

Congs Uganda Cranes, Congs FUFA #ProjectCameroon2019 #MujjeTulumbe

Team Line ups:

Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (G.K), Nicholas Wadada, Joseph Ochaya, Isaac Isinde, Murushid Jjuuko, Khalid Aucho, Tonny Mawejje, Moses Oloya, Geoffrey Massa (Captain), Farouk Miya and William Luwagga Kizito

Substitutes: Jamal Salim (G.K), Geoffrey Sserunkuma, Yunus Sentamu, Godfrey Walusimbi, Ivan Ntege, Emmanuel Okwi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda

Comoros XI: Ali Hamada (G.K), Abdou Nadsm, Fouad Bachirou, Mohamed El Fardou, Yousseouf Mchangama, Bakar Djamel, Ahamada Kassim, Ahamadi Kombo, Ben Youssouf, Chamed Nasser, Youssouf Madi

Substitutes: Mze Ali Ancoub, Mohamed Al Kane, Cheika Houmadi, Omar Mbaranza, Ali Mmadi, Clement Daoudoo

Match Officials: Match Commissioner: George Mwila Kasengele (Zambia)

Referee Assessor: Marcel Njipendi Kuotu (Cameroon)

Center Referee: Malang Diedhiou (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 1: Djibril Camara (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 2: El Hadji Malick Samba (Senegal) Reserve Referee: Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal)

September 5, 2016
Azam Uganda Premier league: Domestic action returns after successful AFCON campaign
Azam Uganda Premier League: Match Day 3 (6^th September 2016)
- Uganda Revenue Authority Vs Vipers – Mehta Stadium, Lugazi (Live on Azam T.V) – 4 p.m
- BUL Vs. The Saints – Kakindu Stadium, Jinja (4:30 p.m)
- Express Vs Onduparaka – Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku (4:30 p.m)
- KCCA Vs Soana – Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo (4:30 p.m)
- Bright Stars Vs Lweza – Champions Stadium, Mwerewe (4:30 p.m)
- Kirinya-Jinja S.S Vs Sadolin Paints – Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe – Jinja (4:30 p.m)
- SC Villa Jogoo Vs Jinja Municipal Council Hippos – Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (4:30 p.m)
- Police Vs Proline – Kavumba Recreational Stadium, Wakiso (4:30 p.m)
Football fans across the country will switch focus to the domestic scene when the top flight Azam Uganda Premier League returns this Tuesday with match day three fixtures.

Eight games will be played in Kampala, Mukono (Lugazi), Wakiso and Jinja districts on Tuesday, 6th September 2016.

The live game on Television (Azam T.V) is that clash involving Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) playing host to Vipers at the Mehta Stadium in Lugazi.

This is one fixture that URA is targeting to turn around their fortunes having drawn the first two games of the season.

Vipers on the other side of the cylinder have earned a draw (1 all against Bright Stars on match day one) and a resounding 4-0 victory against Police in the subsequent match day two.

With the timely return of team Skipper Nicholas Wadada, fresh from the Uganda Cranes successful AFCON fixture against Comoros, Vipers have the ammunition, team leader and one passionate player ready to drive the rest.

Other Vipers players who were on the Uganda Cranes team; Kezironi Kizito and goalkeeper Isma Watenga are two other inspirational players for team Vipers.

The primary task to look for goals for team Vipers will definitely be bestowed upon the lead forwards Tonny Odur and Musa Esenu.

On the hand, URA used the international break optimally as they played and a won two friendly matches against Entebbe and Mulago 4-2 and 6-0 respectively.

Midfielder Feni Ali, Ronald Kigongo, Villa Oromchan and recently cleared Bogota are the sure cards for tax collectors.

Reigning league champions, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) host Soana at the Phillip Omondi Stadium.

Former KCCA assistant coach Sam Ssimbwa faces his previous pay masters after he secured the head coaching job last month.

KCCA’s Ivan Ntege, Timothy Awany and Geofrey Sserunkuma are back to the club after serving the national team with diligence and the deserved commitment in the Kenya International build up as well as the AFCON group D qualifier against Comoros on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Fred Kajoba returns to the Fero Mobile and Lato Milk sponsored Bright Stars team bench as they entertain Lweza.

The main man for team Bright Stars is Fred Ssegujja who has so far scored in the club’s previous two games – against Vipers and Onduparaka.

The Red Eagles – Express is at home to Arua club Onduparaka at Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku in a game the latter’s two coaching staff Moses Oloya (goalkeeping coach) and former Uganda Cranes midfielder Livingstone Mbabazi (assistant coach) are expected to officially start work.

Sports Club Villa Jogoo plays at the new home of the season, Mandela National stadium against Jinja Municipal Council Hippos.

SC Villa won their two build up matches in the break against Natete Select (1-0) and Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), Nkozi 6-2.

Deo Sserwadda’s coached team has crafty left winger Vitalis Abdulmalick Tabu, team captain Mike Sserumaga, Yesseri Waibi with an option of a dice throw between Ashadu Bugembe and Yasin Mugabi to pick who starts in the goal posts.

JMC Hippos looks forward the effective magic left foot of Viane Ssekajugo to torment the Jogoo backline that has Joseph Nsubuga, Ibrahim Kiyembi, Bernard Muwanga and Yesseri Waibi at left back.

Away in Jinja, football fans will be spoilt for choice on whether to follow proceedings at Kakindu where BUL hosts Moses Basena’s The Saints or to make the short journey across of two to the hilly suburb of Bugembe – a venue confirmed to host the derby match between league debutants Kirinya – Jinja S.S and Sadolin Paints.

Both K-Jinja S.S and Sadolin Paints host their matches at the Kyabazinga stadium, Bugembe town.

Meanwhile, Police in a bid to recover fully from the 4-0 humiliating loss to Vipers on match day two will play Proline at the Kavumba Recreational stadium.

Police looks to the industrious play from Sadat Kyambadde, Paul Hasule’s son Edwin Hasule in the middle of the pack, forwards Anthony ‘Cassano’ Bongole and the ever fresh human sky scrapper Peter ‘Crounch’ Ssenyonjo for inspiration.

Proline, fresh from a camp at the FUFA Technical center, Njeru hope Edrisa ‘Torres’ Lubega, one of the Uganda Cranes players used for the Kenya international build up finally finds his right scoring boots of old.

Enjoy the games.
September 5, 2016
Uganda Cranes 1-0 Comoros | AFCON 2017 Qualifier (Group D) – Minute after Minute

#MUJJETULUMBE: AFCON 2017 QUALIFIER (Group D):

UGANDA CRANES 1-0 Comoros

Sunday, 4th September 2016

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (5 p.m Kick-off)

10:00 a.m – Mandela National Stadium Gates opened for the fans

10: 10 a.m – Fans start entering Mandela National Stadium

1:00 p.m – Heavy rains at Mandela National Stadium

3:43 – Uganda Cranes players arrive and feel the turf at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole amidst wild cheers

3:50 p.m – Uganda Cranes players return to the dressing rooms

3:51 p.m – Comoros players feel the playing turf

3:58 p.m – Comoros players return to the dressing rooms

4:00 p.m – Cones for warming up paraded ahead of the warm up session

Uganda Cranes players in the official warm up session

4:15 p.m – Official warm ups underway

4: 40 p.m – Warm ups end and players of the two sides return to the stadium

4:52 p.m – Uganda Cranes and Comoros players march to the field of play as the CAF anthem plays

4:54 p.m – Team inspections by Chief Guest. The First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni accompanied by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo, Honorary FUFA President Lawrence Mulindwa, State Minister for Sports Charles Bakabulindi, among others.

4: 56 p.m – Comoros National Anthem followed by the Uganda Anthem. Crowd applauds

5:03 p.m – First half starts. Uganda Cranes start brightly winning a seven corners inside 14 opening minutes.

Joseph Ochaya hits the goal post of opponents after a Miya through ball

5:46 p.m – Farouk Miya scores. Assist by Moses Oloya. Uganda takes lead as crowd is driven crazy

5:56 p.m – First Half ends.

UGANDA CRANES 1-0 COMOROS (HT)

6:05 p.m: Start of second half

6:16 p.m – William Luwagga Kizito Out for Emmanuel Okwi (after 56 minutes)

6: 36 p.m – Moses Oloya Out for Godfrey Walusimbi (After 85 minutes)

6:41 p.m – Geofrey Massa Out for Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (After 91 minutes)

6: 50 p.m – Final whistle blown. Crowd shouts wildly

FULL – TIME: UGANDA CRANES 1-0 COMOROS

Uganda Cranes qualify for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 38 years.

Team Line ups:

Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (G.K), Nicholas Wadada, Joseph Ochaya, Isaac Isinde, Murushid Jjuuko, Khalid Aucho, Tonny Mawejje, Moses Oloya, Geoffrey Massa (Captain), Farouk Miya and William Luwagga Kizito

Substitutes: Jamal Salim (G.K), Geoffrey Sserunkuma, Yunus Sentamu, Godfrey Walusimbi, Ivan Ntege, Emmanuel Okwi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda

Comoros XI:

Ali Hamada (G.K), Abdou Nadsm, Fouad Bachirou, Mohamed El Fardou, Yousseouf Mchangama, Bakar Djamel, Ahamada Kassim, Ahamadi Kombo, Ben Youssouf, Chamed Nasser, Youssouf Madi

Substitutes: Mze Ali Ancoub, Mohamed Al Kane, Cheika Houmadi, Omar Mbaranza, Ali Mmadi, Clement Daoudoo

Match Officials:

Match Commissioner: George Mwila Kasengele (Zambia)

Referee Assessor: Marcel Njipendi Kuotu (Cameroon)

Center Referee: Malang Diedhiou (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 1: Djibril Camara (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 2: El Hadji Malick Samba (Senegal)

Reserve Referee: Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal)

September 4, 2016
Uganda Cranes XI Vs. Comoros | AFCON 2017 Qualifiers (Group D)

#MUJJETULUMBE: AFCON 2017 QUALIFIER (Group D):

UGANDA CRANES VS Comoros

Sunday, 4th September 2016

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (5 p.m Kick-off)

The Uganda Cranes gallant final 18 man team to face Comoros in the decider of the group D AFCON 2017 qualifier on Sunday, 4th September 2016 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala has been released by the head coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic.

Goalkeeper Dennis Onyango starts in between the goal posts to extinguish all worries about his fitness concerns.

The team is led by Geofrey Massa as the captain.

Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (G.K), Nicholas Wadada, Joseph Ochaya, Isaac Isinde, Murushid Jjuuko, Khalid Aucho, Tonny Mawejje, Moses Oloya, Geoffrey Massa (Captain), Farouk Miya and William Luwagga Kizito

Substitutes: Jamal Salim (G.K), Geoffrey Sserunkuma, Yunus Sentamu, Godfrey Walusimbi, Ivan Ntege, Emmanuel Okwi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda

Match Officials:

Match Commissioner: George Mwila Kasengele (Zambia)

Referee Assessor: Marcel Njipendi Kuotu (Cameroon)

Center Referee: Malang Diedhiou (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 1: Djibril Camara (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 2: El Hadji Malick Samba (Senegal)

Reserve Referee: Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal)

September 4, 2016
Uganda Cranes Vs. Comoros match day programme | AFCON 2017 Qualifiers (Group D)

#MUJJETULUMBE: AFCON 2017 QUALIFIER (Group D):

UGANDA CRANES VS Comoros

Sunday, 4th September 2016

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (5 p.m Kick-off)

Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA face book and @OfficialFUFA Twitter Handle

Match Day Programme:

10:00 hrs: Completion of Pitch Marking (Goals, Substitutes bench, corner flags, substitution numbers, match balls)

Gate opened at the Mandela National Stadium

15:00 hrs: Match Commissioner leave Hotel for stadium under police Escort and Guide.

Referees leave Hotel for stadium under Police Escort and Guide

15:15 hrs: Uganda Cranes leave Hotel for Stadium under Police Escort and Guide

Comoros team leaves Hotel for Stadium under Police Escort and Guide

15:45 hrs: Teams inspection in the dressing room

16:00 hrs: Arrival of the Guest of Honour

16:10 hrs: Goalkeepers of both teams start pre-match warm up

16:15 hrs: Field Players of both teams start pre-match warm up

16:40 hrs: End of pre match warm up

National Flags carried onto the pitch

16:45 hrs: Teams take final re-grouping position

Fair play Flags are carried onto the pitch followed by the Match Commissioner and the teams (The given order is of essence)

CAF Anthem

Comoros National Anthem

Uganda National Anthem

Welcome announcements of the Teams

Line ups by the Master of Ceremonies

All Flags are taken off the pitch

17:00 hrs: KICK OFF

Match Officials:

Match Commissioner: George Mwila Kasengele (Zambia)

Referee Assessor: Marcel Njipendi Kuotu (Cameroon)

Center Referee: Malang Diedhiou (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 1: Djibril Camara (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 2: El Hadji Malick Samba (Senegal)

Reserve Referee: Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal)

September 4, 2016
D-Day: History beckons for Uganda Cranes against Comoros | AFCON 2017 Qualifiers (Group D)

#MUJJETULUMBE: AFCON 2017 QUALIFIER (Group D):

UGANDA CRANES VS Comoros

Sunday, 4th September 2016

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (5 p.m Kick-off)

Match Officials:

Match Commissioner: George Mwila Kasengele (Zambia)

Referee Assessor: Marcel Njipendi Kuotu (Cameroon)

Center Referee: Malang Diedhiou (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 1: Djibril Camara (Senegal)

Assistant Referee 2: El Hadji Malick Samba (Senegal)

Reserve Referee: Maguette Ndiaye (Senegal)

Uganda Cranes host Comoros in the decider of the group D AFCON 2017 qualifier on Sunday, 4th September 2016 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

After a long time of preparations that kicked off last year, Sunday 4th September 2016 is the deciding moment.

The campaign kicked off with a 2-0 comfortable win at home against Botswana, followed by the narrow 1-0 victory over Comoros away in Moroni.

These were followed by a double header against Burkina Faso with Uganda losing 1-0 in Ouagadougou and drawing goal-less at home after three days.

Uganda Cranes XI before a previous home game

The last outing for the Uganda Cranes was that well worked out 2-1 away victory against Botswana at the Francistown Sports Complex.

Head coach Milutin Sredejovic popularly known as Micho believes the players have prepared well enough and on Sunday evening, it is the time to display the best performance without any pressure.

We need to avoid pressure. We shall qualify on Sunday to AFCON finals will calm heads and gallant displays.

The first batch visitors arrived into the country on Thursday afternoon and the second came the following day.

Since their arrival, they have been accommodated at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.

They held two sessions at the Phillip Omondi stadium in Lugogo before having the feel of Namboole grass on Saturday evening.

Uganda needs a clear cut victory to progress to the finals of the 2017 African Cup of Nations that will be hosted by Gabon.

The match kicks off at 5 p.m.

September 4, 2016
Crested Cranes upbeat after 2 foreign based players join team ahead of CECAFA

Crested Cranes coach Majida Nantanda is upbeat that her team will make the nation proud in the upcoming CECAFA Women championship that kicks-off next weekend at FUFA technical Njeru.

After CECAFA General Secretary Nicholas Musonye and FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo launched the tournaments and released the two groups of seven teams on Monday 29^th at FUFA house, Majida kick started the team’s training with 50 players the following day with the training at KCCA FC’s Philip Omondi stadium mainly focused on raising the fitness levels of the players and putting them in proper shape mentally and physically since the FUFA Women Elite League is the break.

American based Crested Cranes forward Laki Otandeka (left) shielding the ball from fellow forward Winnie Babirye in training on Saturday.

These have since been reduced to only 25 who trained on Saturday. 5 other players who were summoned have been representing their school in the Federation of East African Secondary School Sports Association (FEASSSA) games in Eldoret Kenya. These include Kawempe’s Hasifa Nassuuna, Yudaya Nakayenze, Joan Nakirya, Tracy Akiror and Masaka SS’ Catherine Nakiridde.

The team’s preparation ahead of the regional championship that was last held in Zanzibar in 1986 were boosted by the arrival of two foreign based players QPR Ladies FC defender Jean Peace Sseninde and American based Laki Otandeka.

Coach Majida is so far impressed with the pair that started training on Thursday and is very positive they are going to have a great impact on the Crested Cranes efforts to win silverware on home soil.

“I am so far pleased with Jean and Laki’s performance and believe they are going to be very vital for us. Their colleagues have received them well and can see they are easily adapting and getting on well.” Majida stated.

The Crested Cranes will face Kenya on September 11^th in their opening fixture in group A that also has Burundi and Zanzibar. Rwanda, Ethiopia and Tanzania are in group B.

QPR Ladies FC and Crested Cranes defender Jean Peace Sseninde battles for the ball with Margret Namirimu during training on Saturday.

The 25 who attended Saturday traning:

Goal Keepers; Fatuma Matovu, Ruth Aturo and Cissy Nakuguba.

Outfield players:

Defenders – Jean Peace Sseninde, Gladyc Nakitto, Christine Wanyana, Stella Kariba, Tina Nambirigge, Margaret Namirimu, Viola Namuddu, Florence Nakalule, Farida Kisitu.

Midfielders – Naome Nagadya, Rita Nabbosa, Halima Kembabazi, Betty Namataka, Babra Nakyanzi, Shakira Nalwoga, Babra Nakyanzi, Norah Alupo and Fazirah Ikwaput.

Attackers; Laki Otandeka, Asia Nakibuuka, Zaina Namuleme and Winnie Babirye.

September 3, 2016
Uganda Cranes’ coach calls for calmness ahead of Comoros clash, players geared up

#MUJJETULUMBE:

AFCON 2017 QUALIFIERS (GROUP D) – Sunday, 4th September 2016

UGANDA CRANES Vs. Comoros – Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole – Kampala (5 p.m Kick off)

CHARGES: 25,000/= (General Stands), 60,000/= (VIP) & 150,000/= (VVIP)

Barely 24 hours the historic Uganda Cranes match against Comoros of the AFCON 2017 qualifier at Nelson Mandela National Stadium, the head coach for Uganda Milutin Sredejovic has called for calmness from players, called for continued support from fans and a spirited display from players as well.

This is one game like many others we have played.

We shall need calm heads but with the value attached to it, we need to finish every move and chance created. I also call upon the fans to cheer up the team at all times.

The team trained at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium on Friday evening in a session attended by some fans, media and FUFA officials.

Uganda Cranes players greet each other before the start of the second last training session leading to the Comoros game

FUFA Technical Committee chairman Hamid Juma was among the FUFA officials at Namboole.

Goalkeeper Dennis Onyango trained for the second time since resting out the international build up against Kenya.

Emphasis on Friday evening was how to optimally utilize the set piece opportunities and gallant defending.

Uganda Cranes team perfected set pieces on Friday

Team captain Geofrey Massa who turns out for newly promoted Baroka Football Club in South Africa, like the coach notes that only a gallant performance will see the team make history.

This is a game of the life time. The ball lies in our court and we shall go for it.

I thank the Federation, sponsors, media and our dear fans for believing in us.

We have to work hard for the desired result come Sunday.

Head coach Milutin Sredejovic takes the players through the paces at Namboole on Friday evening

On Saturday, the Uganda Cranes team will train at the IUIU Kabojja campus for the last training session.

Uganda Cranes players and officials pray before the start of the training session at Mandela National Stadium on Friday evening

Meanwhile, the second batch of the Comoros national team players and officials arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Friday afternoon.

The visitors shall train at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Saturday evening (starting at 5 p.m) for the first time since arriving in the country on Thursday.

They held their earlier sessions (Thursday and Friday evening) at the astro turf of the Phillip Omondi Stadium.

September 3, 2016
SAD NEWS: Uganda Cranes Manager’s wife passes on

FUFA and the Uganda Cranes team are saddened about the news of Team Manager Chrispus Muyinda losing his wife Sophie Mbabazi today at Mulago Hospital.

Mbabazi has been down with health problems on her kidneys.

‘Muyinda is a pivotal part of the Uganda Cranes. The players have received the sad news but remain focused ahead of Sunday’s match against Comoros’

‘It is tough times for the football fraternity. We know Muyinda as a strong man but let us to keep close to him at this time as he needs our prayers’ said FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo.

Burial arrangements will be communicated later.

September 2, 2016