FUFA has confirmed that an international friendly has been lined up for Uganda Cranes to play Nigeria Super Eagles at Asaba Stadium on Tuesday 20th November 2018.
The match will come three days after the 2019 Total Nations cup qualifier between Uganda Cranes and Cape Verde at Namboole stadium.
The latest development has been confirmed by the FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein.
‘The Uganda Cranes technical team will make use of the FIFA International break that runs from 12th-20th November by playing a high profile friendly with the former African Champions. Matches between these two soccer giants have always been so close since time immemorial’ said Hussein.
‘A 30man contingent will depart on 18th November 2018 for the trip to Nigeria. The foreign based players in the contingent will then connect to their respective clubs after the friendly’ added Hussein
Both Nations will field National A men’s teams. The two teams last met in 2015 when Uganda Cranes edged the Super Eagles 1-0 at Ibo Akwa Stadium.
MAIN PHOTO:Uganda Cranes Starting XI that faced Nigeria in 2015
Uganda CAF A Licensed coach Hadijah Namuyanja has been selected by FUFA to attend a FIFA Coach Mentorship program in Zurich, Switzerland for the period 29th to 30th October 201 at the at the FIFA headquarters.
The coaching program will attract female coaches with attachment to women football around the globe.
The course aims at empowering women coaches with football coaching knowledge that they will utilise, implement and share to other women football coaches and players in their respective countries.
L-R Oliver Mbekeka, Faridah Bulega, FUFA President, FIFA instructor, Hadijah Namuyanja and Christine Wanyana in 2015
‘I feel excited and motivated to have a chance to share knowledge with the world’s best coaches in women football. It’ is another boost to Women football in Uganda and i hope to gain more experience, exposure and knowledge but it will all come with hard work and commitment. I pledge to represent well my country and wish to thank FUFA and FIFA for the opportunity’ said Namuyanja
Namuyanja will fly out on Saturday 27th October to join participants from other countries in Zurich.
She was among the seventeen (17) CAF Licence A coaches that attended the FUFA Managers course in September at Jevine Hotel. Uganda has three CAF A Licensed female coaches. Majidah Nantada and Christine Wanyana are the other two coaches with this qualification.
MAIN PHOTO: CAF A Licenced coach Hadijah Namuyanja. She will attend the FIFA Coach Mentorship program in Zurich
FUFA has submitted a list of 23 referees to be considered for the 2019 FIFA Badges by the world soccer governing body. The latest development has been confirmed by the Chairman Uganda Football Referees Association Ronnie Kalema.
‘Currently Uganda has 21 International referees but FIFA decides on the allocation of referees to each Member Association. The list was reached on after the mandatory fitness tests then presented to the FUFA Executive Committee for approval’ said Chairman Uganda Football Referees Association Ronnie Kalema.
The proposed list has:
Referees (Men): Miiro Brian Nsubuga, Ssali Mashood, Muhabi Alex, Sabilla Ali Chelangat and Oloya William
Assistant referees (Men); Ssonko Mark, Okello Dick, Katenya Ronald, Okello Lee, Balikoowa Musa Ngobi and Masembe Issa.
Assistant referees (Women); Nantabo Lydia Wanyama, Nagaddya Catherine Cynthia, Nakitto Marex Nkumbi, Mutonyi Jane and Tiwuwe Eunice.
Beach Soccer: Kintu Ivan Bayige, Mugerwa Shafic, Ssenteza Muhammad and Kawagga Bazirio Keneddy
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda’s top ranked female FIFA assistant referee Lydia Nantabo Wanyama is on the list. She is fresh from Ghana where she took part in the CAF Elite Referees course.
FUFA Women Elite League
Match Day One
Lady Doves 1-1 Kawempe Muslim
Isra Soccer Academy 0-1 UCU Lady Cardinals
She Corporate 1-0 Asubo Gafford Ladies
Ajax Queens 3-0 Rines WFC SS
Bugiri Town View SS 1-4 Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga
Dynamic Jjeza 1-3 Muteesa 1 Royal University
She Makerere University WFC 1-0 Lango Queens
The 2018/19 FUFA Women Elite League season got underway over the weekend with six games played across the country.
The new season began on an impressive note with thrilling action from all the games played including new comers Lady Doves holding defending champions Kawempe Muslim Ladies.
In a highly anticipated Victoria group encounter played at Katusabe stadium in Masindi Districts, Lady Doves drew one all against Kawempe Muslim.
Grace Babirye formerly at Kampala Queens gave the home side the lead but Kawempe rallied back through Juliet Nalukenge to salvage at least a point.
In the same group, revamped She Corporate edged Asubo Gafford Ladies at home in Nakawa with the lone goal of the game scored by Sarah Namulindwa.
Ajax Queens FC eased past Rines WFC winning 3-0 in the game played at Buddo SS. Bridget Nabisaalu, Annet Namwenge and Rukia Namubiru were all on target for Ajax Queens.
Muteesa I Royal University dispatched new comers Dynamic Jeeza 3-1 in Mityana. Favour Nambatya(brace) and Immaculate Thorach scored for the University side while Dynamic got their consolation through Zam Nakiyaga.
In Elizabeth group, UCU Lady Cardinals fought hard to go past Isra Academy winning the game 1-0 courtesy of Hasifa Nassuna’s first half strike.
Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga were the biggest winners on match day one after a sublime performance saw them rout newly promoted Bugiri Town View 4-1.
Crested Cranes defender Shadia Nankya netted a brace while Spencer Nakachwa and Kevin Nakachwa added a goal each to guide Uganda Martyrs to victory. Bugiri Town View got their consolation through Sharuwa Nakayima.
Another newly promoted team, Lango Queens also lost their first game away to She Makerere. Samalie Nakachwa scored the solitary goal for She Mak.
All photos taken from the She Corporate vs Gafford Ladies match
On Saturday, 20th October 2018, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) held the 94th Ordinary Assembly.
The well attended Assembly was held on Saturday, 20th October 2018 at the White Horse Inn, Kabale District by the Western Region Football Association.
Inclined along the theme, “Professionalisation and grass-root football”, the largely successful Assembly had delegates healthily discuss matters pertaining football development.
The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo presented the detailed report on FUFA’ journey between 2023 to today explaining all the activities that have been done by the Federation.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo hands over the plaque for late Patrick Kawooya to former SC Villa players who recieved it on behalf of the late Kawooya familyJames “Stone” Zatwoshaho smiles with his plaque and cash reward from FUFAFUFA Finance Director Decolas Kiiza addresses the delegates as he presented the financial report
Others:
Presentation of the Budget report
Passing of the new budget
Admission of new members (Nyamityobora, Paidha Black Angels and Ndejje University)
Recognizing of former footballer James ‘Stone’ Zatwoshaho and football administrator, the late Patrick Kawooya.
Constitutional statures amendments among others.
Proposal to appreciate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the meaningful contribution he had done for the Uganda Cranes and FUFA generally. This was passed by Dr. Fred Chandi, and seconded by Norman Ssemwanga of Kireka FC and Rosebell Rwamuyamba.
Honour of the departed souls: A number of people in the football family who lost their lives during the previous year were respected.
These included:
Adoko Akbar Nekyon (FUFA Honorary President)
Apita Kikaroni (Founder of Boroboro Tigers, Father of Mr Omara Apitta)
Joseph Okello Orombi (Former Northern Region Football Association Delegate)
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (2nd from Left) during a meeting with Eastern Region Delegates
The President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Eng. Moses Magogo has engaged Region delegates in sharing ideas during the Pre-Assembly meetings on Friday at White Horse Inn-Kabale.
Eng. Magogo spent the eve of the FUFA Assembly interacting with Delegates and reacting to the concerns from the regions of Western, Kitara, West Nile, Buganda, Eastern, Northern and North East. His two Vice Presidents Justus Mugisha and Darius Mugoye also attended the meetings that discussed aboit progressive reports from the regions.
FUFA EXCO Officials in a group photo with Western Region Delegates at White Horse Inn-Kabale on Friday
The President also met with the Uganda Premier League Delegates, FUFA Big League and Executive Officials.
The host Chairman Western region Football Association Sseka Mutaka acknowledged FUFA for granting them the opportunity to host the General meeting this year.
‘We are glad and privileged to host this year’s FUFA Ordinary General Assembly. It is an opportunity to share ideas that will develop football in our region’ said Western Region Chairman Sseka
Buganda Region Delegates in a meeting with FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo at White Horse Inn-Kabale on Friday
The General Assembly will commence at 9:00am on Saturday 20th October 2018 at White Horse Inn-Kabale.
The FUFA President will chair the Assembly as per the FUAF Statutes.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (1st from Left) in a meeting with West Nile Region Delagates at White Horse Inn-Kabale on Friday
MAIN PHOTO: FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (M) in a group photo with Kitara Delegates at White Horse Inn-Kabale
The first lady of Uganda, also the Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni has specially congratulated the Uganda Cranes upon the recent back to back victories over the Lesotho national football team in the group L 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
Uganda Cranes overcame the Southern Africa country 3-0 and 2-0 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole and at Setsoto stadium in Maseru respectively to accumulate 10 points after 4 games in the campaign, leaving Uganda with just a point within qualification to the 2019 finals that will be staged in Cameroon.
Emmanuel Okwi netted twice and Faruku Miya (penalty) were on target in the Namboole game as Miya carried the day with a brace in the return leg played on artificial surface in Maseru.
The Uganda Cranes contingent to Maseru traveled by a chartered flight offered by President Yoweri Kaguta Mueveni which helped a lot the national team to travel with ease within three days of the return leg after the Namboole success.
Here is the First Lady’s detailed message:
I must begin by thanking God for his goodness and for empowering our boys and leading them as we now see. Then, of course, I congratulate them for emerging victorious during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier return match against Lesotho 2-0 on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 in Lesotho, after the previous win of 3-0 at Mandela National Stadium on Saturday 13th October 2018. Our national team’s performance has been very impressive putting us on the verge of qualifying for the 2019 AFCON Championships due in Cameroon.
On behalf of Government, my Ministry and all the people of Uganda, I salute the Uganda Cranes, Coach Sebastien Desabre and his Technical Team, FUFA, National Council of Sports, and the fans for the observable progress we have registered in performance and development of Ugandan football, and indeed Ugandan sports in general.
As we celebrate our recent performance, I call upon the players, technical officials, fans and supporters to remain humble, focused to the very end. For I believe that this is merely the beginning, the best is yet to come.
In a very special way, I thank the President of Uganda, Cabinet in its entirety and Parliament for supporting sports in general, but the president especially for providing quick means of transport to Lesotho and some support for our pocket expenses to the team. We, at the Ministry, remain committed to provide all the prayer back up, logistical and financial support to Ugandan sports teams within available resources.
May I wish the Uganda Cranes team, continued blessings and a successful AFCON 2019 qualification campaign, therefore, as we look forward to an even brighter future for Ugandan sports.
The victorious Uganda Cranes contingent that traveled to Lesotho for the 2019 Total AFCON qualifier safely returned home on Wednesday afternoon.
The group set foot at Entebbe International Airport aboard the chartered flight facilitated by the Government of Uganda at around 3:15 PM in great moods following a 2-0 away win over Lesotho at the Setsoto stadium in Maseru city with Faruku Miya scoring both goals.
They were received by FUFA officials led by the third Vice President Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, who is also the State Minister for Youth and Children affairs.
The FUFA President followed by some MP’s are recieved at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday by Hon Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Finance Director Decolas Kiiza
FUFA Finance Director Decolas Kiiza and Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein were also at the tarmac to receive the team Football Delegates and several FUFA staff were also in Entebbe.
‘We are very delighted for the two back to back wins against Lesotho. Winning 3-0 at home and 2-0 away was superb as we get closer to AFCON 2019 qualification’ Nakiwala stated.
Majority of the players on board were locally based since some foreign based players connected straight from the Moshoeshoe International Airport in Maseru to their respective destinations to return to their clubs.
Uganda Cranes Head coach Sebastien Desabre disembarking from the plane. He closely followed by National Council of Sports Ag. General Secretary Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel.
Goalkeepers Salim Jamal and Charles Lukwago, Sadam Ibrahim Juma, Derrick Nsibambi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Khalid Aucho, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Moses Waiswa, Isaac Isinde, Timothy Dennis Awany, Tadeo Lwanga, Allan Kyambadde, Patrick Henry Kaddu are some of the players who returned home on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, other players like Miya, Edrisa Lubega, Godfrey Walusimbi, team captain Dennis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Murushid Jjuuko, Dennis Iguma, Allan Kateregga connected to their respective clubs where they ply their trade.
Addressing the media moments after checking through the immigration department at Entebbe International Airport, head coach Sebastien Desabre appreciated the effort of the players for the job well done.
The players led by Vipers Sports Club captain Tadeo Lwanga
‘We played with a target to get maximum points in the two legs against Lesotho. We achieved it and we remain focused to qualify for AFCON 2019. I thank the players, technical team, FUFA, fans and the Government’ Desabre told the media.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre talking to the media in Entebbe
Emmanuel Okwi, like the head coach narrated the targets they had set – winning the two back to back matches, which gave them an advantage coming to the final two matches.
‘It is good that the players had a target and achieved it. There are two more matches and we should not relax, we need two more wins to finish top’ Okwi, who plays for Simba Sports Club in Tanzania stated.
Uganda Cranes striker Emma Okwi talking to the media at Entebbe International Airport
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo once again reminded the media about the genesis of the federation’s plans when he took over office in 2013.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo addressing the media
‘These results are not by accident. They are a result of planning. We held a symposium in 2015 attended by the Vice President of Uganda, Hon. Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi. We set ourselves targets and how to achieve them. These are some of the fruits. We have not yet qualified for AFCON 2019, but the prime objective remains to qualify when we secure at least a point in the remaining two matches. Eng. Magogo disclosed.
Some of the support staff to the technical team Dr Ivan Sewanyana and goalkeeping coach Fred KajobaHassan Wasswa Mawanda is greeted by the FUFA Officials officials
Uganda Cranes will get back to action on 17th November 2019 at Namboole Stadium against Cape Verde.
FUFA Executive officials have held routine discussion with Special Interest Groups Delegates in Lungujja on Wednesday afternoon ahead of the Annual FUFA General Assembly in Kabale on Saturday 20th October 2018.
Uganda Women Football Association (UWFA), Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA), Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA), Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA), Uganda Football Players Association (UFPA), Uganda Schools Football Association (USFA) and Uganda Football Coaches Association (UFRA) were all represented in the meeting chaired by the FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye and FUFA CEO Edgar Watson.
FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha (M) with UFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye (L) and FUFA CEO Edgar Watson (R) at the Pre-Assembly meeting with SIGs Delegates in Lungujja
FUFA 1st Vice President urged Delegates to work hard in a bid to fulfil FUFA’s Vision of becoming number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch.
Mugisha recognised and applauded the performance of Uganda National Beach team-Sand Cranes in the AFCON qualifiers, improvement in the refereeing, coaches attending courses and the women football association for developing and identifying young talents.
Inseperable Vice Presidents L-R FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye and FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha during the meeting with SIGs Delegates in Lungujja on Wednesday
‘You should work hard to promote the FUFA Vision of becoming the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pithc. We thank you for the improvements in governing your Associations. FUFA recognises the progress registered by UWFA in identifying young talents across the country and we also applaud the UFCA for mobilising coaches in attending courses. We also admire the steps taken by UFRA to encourage young referees’ said FUFA Vice President Mugisha
FUFA Executive members and SIGs Delegates in a pre-Assembly meeting in Lungujja
Special Interest Groups were represented by Margaret Kubingi (UWFA Chairperson and Delegate), Faridah Bulega (UWFA Delegate), Kyambadde Stone (UFCA Chairman and Delegate), Paul Ssali (UFCA Delegate), Deo Mutabazi (UBSA Chairman and Delegate), Haruna Mawanda (UFRA Delegate), John Bosco Masiko Uganda Youth Football Association Chairman and Paul Mukatabala Uganda Football Players Association Delegate
Uganda Football Referees Association Delegate Haruna Mawanda during the Pre-Assembly Meeting at the SIGs offices in Lungujja
Similarly, immediately after the Interest Group Pre-Assembly Meeting the two FUFA Vice Presidents also met with Kampala Region FA Delegates.
MAIN PHOTO:FUFA Vice Presidents Mugisha, Mugoye and CEO Edgar Watson in a group photo with SIGs Delegates after the meeting on Wednesday. Meetings will extend in Kabale with other Regional Delegates.
Faruku Miya scored a brace as Uganda Cranes out-muscled Lesotho Likuena (The Crocodiles) 2-0 at the Setsoto stadium in Maseru Stadium on Tuesday night.
Miya opened the scoring as early as the 5th minute with a thunderous shot after good inter-play with Allan Kateregga and Emmanuel Okwi off the right flank.
The Croatian based forward playing alongside KCCA’s Patrick Henry Kaddu added the second in the 36th minute with a superbly taken free-kick after a foul on Okwi on the left flank.
Half time ended with Uganda carrying a 2-0 goal cushion and it necessitated gallant defending from the visitors as Lesotho surged forward for at least a goal back.
Goalkeeper Dennis Onyango and the entire defence had to be alert throughout the second half with explicit defending.
In the second half, the technical team headed by Sebastien Desabre rung a couple of changes which witnessed left winger Allan Kateregga paving way for Egyptian based Isaac Muleme.
Two goal hero Miya who had been booked was replaced by Moses Waiswa and industrious Patrick Henry Kaddu was rested for Edirsa Lubega.
Action between Uganda Cranes and Lesotho Likuena at Setsoto stadium, Maseru on Tuesday night
Uganda is now on the brink of within a point of qualification for the 2019 AFCON finals with the last two matches against Cape Verde (home) and Tanzania (away).
A large fraction of Ugandans who traveled by the chartered flight from Entebbe and those living in Lesotho cheered the Cranes from start to finish.
Meanwhile Tanzania overcame Cape Verde to ascend to 5 points, Cape Verde remains on 4 and Lesotho just two points off four matches.
Meanwhile the Uganda Cranes team departs Lesotho back home on Wednesday morning from Maseru Airport.
Most of the foreign based players have also returned to the respective clubs.
Uganda Cranes will return to action next month, on 16th November 2018 against Cape Verde at the Mandela National Stadium.
Uganda Cranes XI vs Lesotho in Maseru
Team Line ups:
Uganda Cranes XI:
Denis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Murushid Juuko, Dennis Iguma, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Khalid Aucho, Faruku Miya (75′ Moses Waiswa), Patrick Henry Kaddu (84′ Edrisa Lubega), Allan Kateregga (58′ Isaac Muleme)
Subs Not Used:
Jamal Salim, Charles Lukwago, Isaac Isinde, Timothy Denis Awanyi, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Ibrahim Sadam Juma, Tadeo Lwanga, Milton Karisa, Allan Kyambadde, Derrick Nsibambi
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
Uganda Cranes has a chance to seal the 2019 AFCON slot on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 with a victory away to Lesotho (provided Tanzania fails to beat Cape Verde in Dar es salaam).
Currently, the Cranes have 7 points from three matches (two wins and one draw) as they seek maximum points over the Southern Africa country.
Last Saturday, Uganda Cranes beat Lesotho 3-0 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
A chartered flight facilitated by the Government of Uganda enabled the team reach Maseru on Sunday well in time of the Tuesday game.
They were checked in at the Avani Hotel in Maseru, a 5 minute drive from the Setsoto Stadium.
On Sunday evening, the team held a one hour recovery session meant to help the players stretch the muscles after 90 minutes of action on Saturday and a six hour flight from Entebbe International Airport with a stop over in Lusaka, Zambia.
The final session was held on Monday evening (same time of the match) for one hour with emphasis stressed on prolific finishing in the final third of the field.
Uganda Cranes players in their final training session on the astro turf of Setsoto Stadium on Monday evening
“We have had two good training sessions in Lesotho at the Setsoto stadium. The players are all in shape and focused for the game. We have the quality and happy for their response” Head coach, Sebastien Desabre disclosed to www.fufa.co.ug after the Monday session.
Defender Murushid Jjuuko, suspended during the first leg because of accumulated cautions is available for selection alongside the other 23 players.
The coach has kept the starting eleven closer to his chest.
“We know the reason why we traveled to Lesotho. The morale is high in the camp and this is good motivation for us as players.” vice captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda disclosed.
The match will be officiated by FIFA referees from Comoros.
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Ali Mohammed Adelaid
1st Assistant Referee: Soulaimane Amaldine
2nd Assistant Referee: Said Omar Chebli.
Uganda Cranes Players Available for Selection:
Goalkeepers:Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Defenders: Murushid Juuko (Simba SC, Tanzania), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (El Geish, Egypt), Dennis Iguma (Kazma FC, Kuwait), Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS, Uganda), FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood, Egypt), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Church Hill Brothers, India), Moses Waiswa (Vipers Sc, Uganda), Joseph Benson Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA FC, Uganda), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City, South Africa), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda, Morocco), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA, Uganda),
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President Eng. Moses Magogo has saluted the Government of Uganda for the timely financial and logistical support over time for the Federation and Uganda Cranes in particular.
Speaking from Avani Maseru Hotel in Maseru city, Lesotho where the Uganda Cranes team is currently camped prior to the Total AFCON 2019 qualifier against the home country on Tuesday, Eng. Magogo specifically thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni-Minister of Education and Sports for the timely support of Shs 200M and a chartered flight to Lesotho, where commercial flights are a menace.
Eng. Moses Magogo’s full interview:
We would like to thank the Government for the support they have given us. Traveling in Africa is not an everyday thing especially the level of infrastructure of our Continent.
There are some countries which are very difficult to reach to especially by public transport. The countries that are well off have been doing this very perfectly.
I would love to inform the public that our plea to the head of state was answered by a chartered flight. We left on Sunday morning with about 99 people on board including players, officials, fans and the media.We had a stop over in Zambia until we reached well in Maseru.
Surely, we can not ask for more and the players understand this, they appreciate. Gone are the days when some people were pulling and others pushing. Now, we all seem to be pushing together.
This is just the beginning of very many things to come. In 2014, we had an ambition of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019.
The target seemed to be far initially. Of course, there was the 2017 AFCON campaign. This was merely a learning curve for us. There are targets we set alongside accomplishing the 8 pillars of football development that we had to address and i am sure that some of these have been addressed especially educating club coaches which train the players from where the head coach selects.
We wanted qualification to AFCON to become an everyday routine but rather not as a benchmark to weigh the successes of FUFA. Let us wait for the positive results and we believe we shall achieve them like anticipated, then we step up the next gear. There is the the element of heading to AFCON to compete and qualifying for Qatar World Cup 2022 among other targets.
The most important thing has been our will to thank Allah for the guidance, wisdom and health for what we have achieved and not achieved. Most importantly, has been the new aspect of planning. There is a total plan and this is being executed to the dot.
Uganda Cranes face Lesotho Likuena (Crocodiles) at the Setsoto Stadium on Tuesday night in a match where maximum points for the Cranes will further enlighten the chances of a return to AFCON, following the 2017 success script to the finals hosted in Gabon. when Uganda appeared the continental show piece for the first time since 1978.
FUFA Executive Committee member Richard Ochom is the Head of Delegation for the Ugandan contingent in Lesotho.
Uganda Cranes striker Emmanuel Arnold Okwi greets the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo moments after alighting from the chartered plane, offered by Government to transport the team from Uganda to Lesotho. Following Okwi is striker Edrisa Lubega
International security expert Okello Dixon will fly out on Monday afternoon for the FIFA Safety and Security Officers training and assessment workshop.
Okello will be at the Home of FIFA (HoF), FIFA-Strasse20 in Zurich for the workshop to be conducted from 17th-19th October.
‘We are glad that Ugandans are being recognized and considered for such opportunities that improve the organisation of our events after the training sessions. We believe that Okello will bring back the knowledge acquired from Zurich to pass on to the local security team at the football events in Uganda’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein.
Okello who has been at various sporting events as security officer including the FIFA World Cup (2010 South Africa), Olympic Games in London (2012) and most recently on the continent for CAF duties in the Champions League matches; Al Ahly of Egypt vs Horoya AC of Guinea and Al Ahly vs Setif of Algeria.
MAIN PHOTO: Dixon Okello on duty during the the 2017 AFCON Finals in Gabon
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre believes and has the hope that his charges will work for the best result on Tuesday during the return leg against Lesotho Crocodiles.
‘We have the quality to match Lesotho. It is very important to see that we win the game because the objective is to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon. About the Setsoto stadium artificial surface, our players have played on such surface especially the KCCA FC and Vipers SC players. Concerning the weather, many have faced this cold weather like those who play in South Africa, we shall match them’ Desabre spoke ahead of the Tuesday training session.
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre (with shades) moments after arrival at Maseru Airport
After arrival in Lesotho aboard a chartered flight, the team checked in at Avani Maseru Hotel.
The first session on Sunday afternoon was more of a recovery one with all the 11 players who started on Saturday granted a light session with a lot of stretching under assistant coach Mathias Lule and trainer Gerome D’Antonio.
Meanwhile, the players who started on the bench were involved in a ball work session as well as body stretching drills under Desabre.
After the session, two goal hero in the 3-0 home win, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi had a brief interview with the media as he underlined the team’s bold clear intentions in Maseru.
Avani Maseru Hotel is where the Uganda Cranes team is accomodated
‘We are yearning to return to the AFCON. Every player has that focus. We are determined. Personally, I am motivated by the two goals i scored and this is a confidence booster’ stated Okwi.
The team’s last training session will be held on Monday at the Setsoto stadium.
TOTAL Africa Cup of Nations Cameroon 2019 Qualifiers (Group L):
Tuesday, 16th October 2018
Lesotho Vs Uganda Cranes
At Setsoto Stadium, Maseru
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
The Uganda Cranes delegation for the return leg of the 2019 Total AFCON group L qualifier safely arrived in Maseru, the capital city of Lesotho on Sunday afternoon.
The contingent of over 70 people departed Entebbe International Airport at 7.50am on a chartered flight Boeing 737-500.
On board were all the 24 players who made the training camp at Kabira Country Club in Bukoto, the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Government Officials, some members of the FUFA Executive, delegates, staff, Members of Parliament, media personnel, some fans and other Government officials.
Moses Waisswa and Charles Lukwago alight from the team plane
With an hour stop over in Lusaka, Zambia, the contingent finally reached Maseru Airport at 2 PM local time, welcomed by very chilly weather conditions.
Uganda Cranes team manager Chrispus Muyinda as well as former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Posnett Omony were in Maseru to receive the team.
After checking in at the airport through the immigration procedure, the team embarked on a 20 minute road journey to – Avani Maseru Hotel.
Posnett Omony (left) with Dennis Onyango at Maseru Airport. Omony was part of the team that received the Uganda Cranes in Maseru alongside Crispus MuyindaJoseph Ochaya wheels off his luggage to Avani Hotel in Maseru city booked for Uganda CranesUganda Cranes players checking in at Avani Hotel in Maseru
‘We arrived safely and everyone is in perfect condition. The journey was good and we thank our President, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the chartered flight offer. We pray that we achieve the best of results here in Maseru as we work towards securing qualification to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon’ Richard Ochom, the Head of delegation noted.
Later in the evening, the team held their opening training session at the Setsoto stadium (artifical surface) under very cold conditions.
‘The two goals i scored in Kampala were a confidence booster. We are all ready for the match on Tuesday. We traveled well and managed to have one training session on Sunday ahead of the last session on Monday. The confidence is high and we shall work as a unit’ Emmanuel Okwi, scorer of a brace in the 3-0 home win stated.
The team will hold the last training on Monday (7 PM) at the Setsoto stadium.
Ugandan referees, assistants, assessors and commissioners were so busy in the continent in Friday and Saturday in the ongoing fixtures of 2019 AFCON Qualifiers between 10th-16th October 2018.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) appointed center referee Alex Muhabi who was in charge of the Group H match between Ivory Coast and Central African Republic on 12th October 2018 at Stade De Bouake in Abidjan.
Mark Ssonko was the 1st assistant while Ronald Katenya the 2nd assistant.
Brian Nsubuga Miiro was picked as a Reserve Referee.
Egesa Wasonga Samuel is another Ugandan who was allocated as Referees Assessor in a Group K match between Mozambique and Namibia at Estadio Nacional do Zimpeto in Maputo on Saturday 13th October 2018.
Mike Letti was Match Commissioner in the match between Ethiopia and Kenya in the midweek.
Similarly, CAF also assigned Ronnie Kalema as a Referee Assessor in a Group E match when Seychelles hosts South Africa at Stade Linite, in Victoria, Seychelles on 16th October 2018.
Ronnie Kalema appointed to be match assessor in AFCON Qualifier match between Seychelles and South Africa
MAIN PHOTO: FIFA Referee Alex Muhabi appointed to officiate Ivory Coast Vs Central African Republic in 2019 AFCON Qualifiers
TOTAL 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers (Group L)
Uganda Cranes 3-0Lesotho Likuena
Uganda Cranes was unstoppable on Saturday, defeating Lesotho 3-0 during the Total 2019 Africa Cup of Nations group L qualifier at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Emmanuel Arnold Okwi scored twice and Faruku Miya got the other from rhe penalty spot.
Okwi’s opener arrived as early as the 10th minute with a well drilled left footed shot.
Uganda Cranes XI against Lesotho
Miya added the second with a successful kick from the penalty spot after a foul on the impressive Okwi in the 36th minute.
In the second half, Okwi headed home the third goal after a decent cross from the left by Edrisa Lubega.
Uganda Cranes technical team made all the three changes in the game.
Ibrahim Sadam Juma replaced Joseph Ochaya after 58 minutes, Lubega was taken off for Patrick Henry Kaddu in the 70th minute and Isaac Muleme came on for Moses Waiswa with four minutes to the final whistle.
Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and Faruku Miya celebrate one of the three goals on Saturday. The two players were both on targetMoses Waiswa beats two Lesotho players Tumelo Khutlang (left) and Tsepo Toloane (right) during the game
Uganda Cranes returns to the summit of group L with 7 points off three matches.
Cape Verde who defeated Tanzania 3-0 in Praia on Friday drop back ro second position with four points.
Tanzania and Lesotho both have two points each.
Meanwhile, Uganda Cranes will on Sunday morning (7am) fly out of the country for the completion of the back ro back fixture.
The return match will be played on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 in Maseru.
Uganda Cranes players acknowledge the supporters after the game at Namboole StadiumInspection of the teams prior to kick off
Uganda Cranes XI:
Denis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Dennis Iguma, Khalid Aucho, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Moses Waiswa (84’ Isaac Muleme), Faruku Miya, Edrisa Lubega (70’ Henry Patrick Kaddu), Joseph Benson Ochaya (58’ Ibrahim Sadam Juma)
Substitutes Not Used:
Jamal Salim, Charles Lukwago, Isaac Isinde, Tadeo Lwanga, Allan Kateregga, Milton Karisa, Allan Kyambadde, Timothy Denis Awanyi, Derrick Nsibambi
Likano Mputhi (G.K), Samuel Khetsekile (G.K), Kapano Tseka, Tsotleho Paul Jane, Setho Moshoeshoe, Thabo Seakhoa, Masoabi Synous Nkoto
Suspended: Bokang Sello
Match officials with the captains of the two countries; Dennis Onyango (second from left) and Mafa Moremoholo (second right)
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Ali Mohammed Adelaid
First Assistant Referee: Samir Gamal Saad
Second Assistant Referee: Mahmoud El Regal
Uganda Cranes fans passionately cheer during the gameThe technical bench led by head coach Sebastien DesabreThe Namboole stadium score had the nitty gritty of the final outcome
The players and members of the technical team in ball work drills during the last training session
The stage is set at the historic Mandela National Stadium as the mighty Uganda Cranes host Lesotho national football team, popularly known as Likuena (The Crocodiles) this Saturday.
Uganda Cranes will proudly don the newly designed jersey, manufactured by kits company Mafro for the first time.
This is the first leg of 2019 Total African Cup of Nations (AFCON) group L qualifier for the double header whose return leg will take place in Maseru on Tuesday, 16th October 2018.
Owing to the level of preparations since the Uganda Cranes kicked off their preparations with their non residential preparations for the home based players last week, the writing has been well scripted on the wall, the home team is ready.
The Uganda Cranes players trained under runny conditions on Tuesday
Individual players led by the captain Denis Onyango have doubled their efforts in training sessions with sheer determination and commitment as they all eye maximum points.
“We are determined to give our best for the game. We need maximum points out of this game this Saturday. Lesotho is not a small team like many people think. Therefore, we have to work hard and collectively as a team” Onyango disclosed to the media in the pre-match press conference held at Namboole on Friday morning.
The head coach Sebastien Desabre and the rest of his technical team have done a tremendous task to assemble a formidable team and prepare the players mentally and physically.
Desabre says the team is prepared 200 percent for the double header starting with the first leg at Namboole.
“We have spoken to the players, trained well and they are prepared physically and mentally. The players know the importance of this match. We shall work hard to get the home win which will be a stepping stone to the return leg on Tuesday” Desabre told the media at the pre-match press conference.
Sebastien Desabre addressing the media during a pre match press conference
Meanwhile, Lesotho players trained at Namboole Stadium on Friday evening for two hours.
Apart from Murushid Jjuuko, all the 23 other players in the camp at the Kabira Country Club in Bukoto will be available for selection.
Jjuuko is suspended after getting two cautions but will be available for the return leg when the team travels.
Uganda Cranes maintain their grip at the summit of group L with four points off two matches.
Tanzania and Lesotho have four points while Cape Verde has one point.
UGANDA CRANES PLAYERS AVAILABLE FOR SELECTION:
Goalkeepers: Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundown, South Africa), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Defenders: Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS, Uganda), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA FC, Uganda), Denis Iguma (Kazma FC, Kuwait), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa) FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood, Egypt), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Hassan Wasswa (El Geish, Egypt)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Church Hill Brothers, India), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA FC, Uganda), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City, South Africa), Faruku Miya (Gorica, Croatia ), Moses Waisswa (Vipers Sc, Uganda), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda, Morocco), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA, Uganda)
Forwards: Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Simba, Tanzania), Edrisa Lubega (SV Ried, Austria), Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt), Patrick Kaddu (KCCA FC, Uganda)
