FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

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  • Uganda Cranes buoyant prior to Rwanda clash in FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier | Group E

    Uganda Cranes buoyant prior to Rwanda clash in FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier | Group E

    FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier | Group E:

    Thursday, 7th October 2021: Rwanda Vs Uganda- Nyamirambo Stadium, Kigali (7 PM)

    The Uganda Cranes players are set, officials prepared and Ugandans anxious for the anticipated do or die FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers first leg encounter in group E on Thursday evening.

    The Ugandan delegation arrived in Kigali on Wednesday morning before they conducted their final training session later in the evening at the Nyamirambo stadium under flood lights.

    The lively session was under the stewardship of Serbian Tactician Sredojevic ‘Micho’ Milutin alongside his technical team.

    It was good news that all the twenty five players who traveled with the team tested negative after the routine Covid-19 tests done prior to the match and all in the best attitude to encounter Rwanda.

    Moses Waiswa and Abdul-Azizi Kayondo vie for the ball possession during the final training session at Kigali Regional stadium, Nyamirambo

    Speaking to www.fufa.co.ug, midfielder Julius Poloto said that it is high time the players gave Ugandans joy because it has been long since the Cranes won a game.

    ‘We need to win this game for Ugandans who have taken long with out seeing their team win. We have prepared well for the days we have been in camp and just looking forward for the game. We know that our opponents are also prepared for us making the game harder but we shall overcome them’ noted Poloto.

    Defender Enock Walusimbii clears the ball as forward Fahad Bayo closes on

    ‘All we are waiting for is the first whistle and we show them what we are made of. This is like a game of our life because it means a lot in our campaign of qualifying for the World Cup. We only urge Ugandan to rally behind us as we face Rwanda’ Enock Walusimbi, a defender remarked.

    ‘We young players have learnt a lot especially from the Coaches and senior players. I think it is time we deliver and it is against Rwanda that we shall do so’ midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga disclosed.

    The match will kick off at 6 PM (Rwanda time, 7 PM in Uganda).

    The last training session for Uganda Cranes at Kigali Regional Stadium – Nyamirambo on Wednesday evening under floodlights

    After the first leg, there will be virtually no time to rest as the two countries will lock-horns on Sunday, 10th October 2021 at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

    The Squad of 25 players to Rwanda:

    1-Lukwago Charles, 2-Watenga Isma, 3-Alionzi Nafian, 4-Wafula Innocent, 5-Poloto Julius, 6-Muleme Isaac , 7-Kayondo Aziz , 8-Awanyi Timothy, 9-Najib Fesali, 10-Walusimbi Enock , 11-Mulondo Livingstone , 12-Waswa Geofrey , 13-Aucho Khalid ,14-Waiswa Moses, 15-Lwanga Tadeo , 16-Byaruhanga Bobosi, 17-Iguma Denis, 18-Kagimu Shafik, 19-Orit Ibrahim, 20-Kizza Martin, 21-Kizza Mustafa, 22-Sentamu Yunus, 23-Rwothomio Cromwell, 24-Mukwala Steven, 25-Bayo Fahad

  • Micho, Aucho address media ahead of Rwanda vs Uganda derby in Kigali on Thursday

    Micho, Aucho address media ahead of Rwanda vs Uganda derby in Kigali on Thursday

    Uganda Cranes Head Coach  Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic addressed the media on the 5th October 2021 at FUFA House, Mengo ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers against Rwanda due on the 7th and 10th October 2021. He was flanked by the stand in Captain Khalid Aucho.

    In his address, the Coach assured the media that the team has reached the competitive level that will enable it perform better than it did in the previous two matches between Kenya and Mali.

    Uganda Cranes Head Coach Milutin Sredojevic addressing the media

    ‘I believe that we have what it takes to get the performance and result’ noted Micho.

    ‘The team is in transition, it has always been that the Uganda Cranes since 2005/6 had more professional players than locally based players but now we have a vice versa situation. The maturity and seniority of senior players, use of fresh blood and the desire by young players to succeed is a balanced formula that we want to use’ added the Head coach.

    The Head coach was hesitant to make a promise but would rather go to direction of what would give the best result and performance both in Kigali and Kitende.

    Regarding defender Bevis Mugabi, the Head coach clarified that he (Mugabi) could not come because his club did not release him.

    When talking about the Rwanda national team head coach, Micho had the following to say;

    ‘I have respect for coachvVincent Mashami and Rwanda as a national team. The players too, of which 80% I gave the first opportunity to play at national level’

    ‘I know their players. I know what they think but instead of being proud of what I know about them, I would like in the elements of theoretical awareness to present to our players points of vulnerability and sources of danger to close because a perfect team doesn’t exist”, he added.

    “I respect him as my student and I want to show that the Professor has not forgotten his teachings” he concluded.

    The team captain Khalid Aucho said that they have prepared well, the players in the training camp are in a good mood and they are ready to get the maximum points from Rwanda.

    Aucho on the derbies involving Uganda and Rwanda:

    We have played many derbies and won. We are not under any pressure but we want to win the game. The players are strong and ready for the game against Rwanda. The young players in the team are like babies taking their first steps to walk. They want to prove a point and are willing to deliver for the Uganda Cranes and make the fans happy.

    Uganda Cranes Captain Khalid Aucho addressing the media

    Aucho on young players’ chance to play for the Uganda Cranes:

    The coach gave me chance to play for the National team when I was really young. It is good that he is giving the young players a chance to play for the National team. The senior players on the team will guide this younger generation. We are only thinking about winning the match against Rwanda.

  • Uganda Cranes coach Micho names Final Squad to Rwanda

    Uganda Cranes coach Micho names Final Squad to Rwanda

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic has named the final squad of 25 players to face Rwanda over two matches in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifiers on 7th and 10th October 2021. The team flies out tonight (10pm) aboard RwandaAir. The match in Kigali will be played on 7th October at 6pm (Rwanda Time) 7pm in Uganda.

    The Contingent:

    Ariga Rasoul Ibrahim- Leader of Delegation

    Milutin Sredojevic- Head Coach

    Moses Basena- Assistant Coach

    Fred Kajoba- goalkeeping coach

    Plaine Franck- Performance Coach

    Ayobo Felix- Nutritionist

    Alemu Addis Worku- Video Analyst

    Paul Mukatabala- National teams Officer (Advance Party)

    Geofrey Massa- Team Coordinator

    Nakabago Emmanuel- Team Physician

    Ivan Ssewanyana- Physiotherapist

    Ayub Balyejusa- Kit manager 1

    Mulondo Samuel- Kit Manager 2  

    Hamza Nsereko Kawuma

    Tamale Haruna- Team Official (Delegate Kampala Region FA)

    Kaweesa Andrew- Team Official (Chairman Buganda Region FA)

    The Squad of 25 players to Rwanda

    1-Lukwago Charles, 2-Watenga Isma, 3-Alionzi Nafian, 4-Wafula Innocent, 5-Poloto Julius, 6-Muleme Isaac , 7-Kayondo Aziz , 8-Awanyi Timothy, 9-Najib Fesali, 10-Walusimbi Enock , 11-Mulondo Livingstone , 12-Waswa Geofrey , 13-Aucho Khalid ,14-Waiswa Moses, 15-Lwanga Tadeo , 16-Byaruhanga Bobosi, 17-Iguma Denis, 18-Kagimu Shafik, 19-Orit Ibrahim, 20-Kizza Martin, 21-Kizza Mustafa, 22-Sentamu Yunus, 23-Rwothomio Cromwell, 24-Mukwala Steven, 25-Bayo Fahad

  • URA defender Najib Fesali comes of age

    URA defender Najib Fesali comes of age

    FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers

    7/10/2022: Rwanda Amavubi Stars Vs Uganda Cranes  – Nyamirambo Stadium, Kigali

    10/10/2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Rwanda Amavubi Stars – St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

    Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club defender Najib Fesali is an unfamiliar face in the current Uganda Cranes squad preparing for Rwanda Amavubi Stars.

    It is the first time many football followers are witnessing him and hearing of his name thus one of the most asked question at the team training is ‘Who is that brown tall guy’?

    It is no surprise that many have seen and heard of him for the first time because the central defender has never featured in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League which is followed and watched by many.

    Defender Fesali Najib in training with the Uganda Cranes at Lugogo

     Born and Raised in Jinja to Mr Abdul Fesali and Swalha Muhammad, the young Najib started chasing his dream while in primary five at Main Street Primary in Jinja then joined Jinja SS, St Jude FC (3rd Division) Eastern Region, Kyaggwe Sazza team, Gaddafi FC (loan) and currently stationed at URA Football Club.

    Narrating on how he learnt of his summoning to the National team, Najib said that he was at training in Gayaza with URA FC and the Coach read out the names of those summoned with his name inclusive.

    ‘When we completed our training, the coach invited us for the routine team talk . He told us that seven of our team players had been summoned for the national team and he started reading out the names. Never did I pay much attention because it couldn’t cross my mind that my name would be read. The coach read the names and mine was the last. To everyone’s surprise, my name was read out last. Not only me was in shock until the coach had to read the list again.’ notes Najib.

    Najib Fesali (holding a Nivana Water bottle) quenches his thirst

    ‘I grew some goose bumps for some seconds like any human who learns on anything strange. But after a while my mind told me that it was my time.’ the calm defender adds.

    Najib remarks that he knew that one time of his career he would be part of the National team because it is a dream for every footballer to wear the national colours and represent his nation.

    ‘Being summoned to the national team is a dream come true though it calls for working harder to be consistent and attest that you are part of the team on merit and also not to disappoint the coach who trusted you.’ Najib asserts.

    Talking about his first time with the team, the easy-going tall defender confessed that it was a bit challenging because of the new environment nonetheless football.

    ‘It was challenging when I reported for training for the first time, though I met some players I had played with before but I had never met many other players thus I had to adopt to the new environment and learn how to live with the new people including the technical team and officials.’ disclosed the tall brown defender.

    Najib believes that his time is now since the coach considered and summoned him for the squad to prepare against the crucial double encounter against Rwanda. He is also confident that he can compete with the experienced players for a position in the team.

    ‘We have to utilize this transition so that we seal positions at the National team. Making it to the squad means I am prepared to compete for a slot even if it calls starting a game, I feel ready.’ he vows.

    While starting his career, Najib well-regarded retired Uganda Cranes Assistant captain Hassan Wasswa because of his fighting spirit and versatility at the pitch.

    When asked about his future, he said that he is eyeing playing in the top five leagues in the world with five years to come.

    He mentioned Andy Mwesigwa, Late Mathew Lukya, Abel Kikomeko, Charles Ayiekho, Coach Boban and Zungu as some people who have played a role in his careers.

    Brief Profile

    Name: Najib Fesali

    Place of Birth: Jinja

    Parents: Abdul Fesali & Swalha Muhammad

    Current Club: URA FC

    Strong Foot: Right

    Role Model: Hassan Wasswa

  • Micho names Uganda Cranes team to face Rwanda Amavubi Stars | FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers

    Micho names Uganda Cranes team to face Rwanda Amavubi Stars | FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers

    FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers (Group E):

    7th October 2021: Rwanda Amavubi Stars Vs Uganda Cranes – Kigali

    10th October 2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Rwanda Amavubi Stars – St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has named a pool of 32 players to face Rwanda Amavubi Stars in the up-coming FIFA World Cup 2022 group E double header.

    The Squad has both local and foreign based players that will further be trimmed before travel to Rwanda.

    Goalkeepers Isima Watenga and Charles Lukwago, Timothy Denis Awany, Fahad Bayo, Isaac Muleme, Moses Waiswa, Khalid Aucho, Tadeo Lwanga and Mustafa Kizza are the foreign based players in the squad.

    Lukwago is already in the country while the rest of the foreign based players will start reporting to camp on Sunday, 3rd October 2021 in preparation for both matches.

    There are 23 players who ply their trade in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League in the squad currently camped at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi.

    Vipers’ defender Livingstone Mulondo is among the local legion of players on the team

    Meanwhile, the team training resumes on Friday morning at Lugogo in Kampala.

    Uganda Cranes has two points from the first two games in group E, earned against Kenya (away) and Mali (home).

  • Micho reduces squad to 24 Players ahead Of World Cup Clashes With Rwanda

    Micho reduces squad to 24 Players ahead Of World Cup Clashes With Rwanda

    FIFA World Cup Qatar Qualifiers 2022:

    7/10/2021: Rwanda vs Uganda Cranes – Nyamirambo Stadium, Kigali

    10/10/2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Rwanda – St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

    The Uganda Cranes Coach Sredojevic Milutin has further trimmed the team in camp at the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi to 24 players.  

    Four players have been put on standby after the practice match against KCCA FC on Thursday. 

    Foreign based players are expected to Join the team on Monday before the team travels to Kigali for the first leg of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers. 

    Players in camp:

    Goalkeepers: Joel Mutakubwa (Express FC), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC), Tamale Simon (SoltiloBright Stars FC)

    Defenders: Willa Paul (Vipers SC), Wafula Innocent (KCCA FC), Kayondo Abdu Aziizi (Vipers SC), Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Iguma Denis (KCCA FC), Najib Fesali (URAFC), Mulondo Livingstone (Vipers SC), Waswa Geofrey (KCCA FC),  Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Kakooza Mahad (Express FC), Kagimu Shafik(URA FC), Karisa Milton (Vipers SC), Mato Rogers (KCCA FC), Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Orit Ibrahim (Vipers SC), Kizza Martin (Express FC)

    Strikers: Sentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Mukwala Stephen (URA FC), Rwothomio Cromwell (URA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC) 

  • FUFA To Organise Fitness Test for National Referees

    FUFA To Organise Fitness Test for National Referees

    FUFA is set to conduct a National fitness test for Regional referees holding FUFA badges. The Physical fitness test will take place at Makerere University ground on Saturday 2nd  October 2021.

    82 referees from 8 FUFA Regions (West Nile, Buganda, North East, Kampala, Kitara, Eastern, Northern and Western) both Men and Women are expected to attend the test. However, there will be one referee from Burundi who was approved by FUFA to be part of the fitness test.

    The fitness session is aimed at preparing the referees for the officiation of the FUFA Big League and some for the FUFA Uganda Premier League that is yet to resume on 15th October 2021.

    Participants will be subjected to mandatory medical tests on Friday 1st October at FUFA House.

    FUFA National Fitness Referee Instructors Ali Kalyango and his assistant Rahman Kizito, Samuel Kayondo, and Mwesigwa Ronald will manage the fitness test.

    Below is the list of the FUFA referees that will undergo the fitness test

    The following are the participants

    West Nile Region
    1 Ongiera Immaculate F
    2 Chacio Annet Victoria
    3 Namazzi Viola F
    4 Haward Musa Orombi
    5 Kyeyune Micheal
    6 Happy Badru M
    7 Haruna Rashid
    8 Ijaga Muzamiru

    Western Region
    9 Lubega Mustafa
    10 Sekayuba Fahad M
    11 Gumisiriza Memory
    12 Ahimbisibwe Abed
    13 Noor Hassan
    14 Uwimana Grace F
    15 Asiimwe Natasha

    Buganda Region
    16 Namusoke Ritah
    17 Lukwago Godfrey
    18 Katabalwa Jothan
    19 Kiwanuka Fred
    20 Kimbugwe Robert
    21 Ssemugga James M
    22 Wanyama Davis
    23 Ssekanjako Ibrahim
    24 Mpanga Ali
    25 Mukasa Lawrence
    26 Komakech Charles
    27 Kavuma Vicent
    28 Kasibante Julius M

    Northern Region
    29 Okello Simon Peter
    30 Oriada Hakim
    31 Ichilla Sam
    32 Adakun Rasto
    33 Omunyira Mathias
    34 Otim Daniel
    35 Ojame Eric Francis
    36 Oligo Geofrey
    37 Adebo Joan Ruth

    Kampala Region
    38 Wasswa Alex
    39 Lule Yusuf Sebagidde
    40 Kasadha Kennedy
    41 Kaweesa Stuart
    42 Mbabali Samuel
    43 Musisi Henry M
    44 Kaddu Ali Kizza M
    45 Kirangwa Ronaldie
    46 Jjunju Bashir Kigongo
    47 Kalule Micheal
    48 Mugerwa Richard
    49 Ssali Mohammed
    50 Lubwama Ivan
    51 Katende Hamza
    52 Kato Kamyuka Charles
    53 Kimayo Stephen
    54 Akoyi Anna
    55 Atuhairwe Joyce F
    56 Nayebare Babrah
    57 Namazzi Miriam

    Kitara Region
    58 Murungi Susan F
    59 Nyangoma Hawah
    60 Nyange Shakirah
    61 Maliro Erasmus
    62 Tumusiime Gerald Tuge
    63 Donney Robert
    64 Byaruhanga Henry M
    65 Atusinguza Robson John
    66 Ainabyona Amon

    Eastern Region
    67 Muyaga Khalid
    68 Kamba Ayub
    69 Nantatya Godwin
    70 Mpyangu Siraje M
    71 Mukisa Umaru Ouma
    72 Magoola Ashiraf
    73 Ojame Eric
    74 Ssajjabi Geofrey
    75 Namukobe Haula F

    Northern Region
    76 Omara Paul
    77 Okwang Mario
    78 Oligo Geofrey
    79 Obua Tobby M
    80 Ejanga Daisy
    81 Aweko Kevin
    82 Alaba Edina
    83 Niyonzima Aaron (Burundian Referee)

    .                                                                 

  • Practice Match: Uganda Cranes edge KCCA

    Practice Match: Uganda Cranes edge KCCA

    Practice Match: KCCA 1-2 Uganda Cranes

    Uganda Cranes edged KCCA Football Club 2-1 in an entertaining end to end  practice match at the Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, Kampala on Thursday, 30th September 2021.

    Denis Iguma dived to head in from a distance a well calculated Julius Poloto corner on the right flag to give Uganda Cranes the lead after 21 minutes off the clock.

    Herbert Achai (L) takes on his clubmate Mwanje Elvis during the practice match at Lugogo.

    The hosts fought back in the 33rd minute  when Charles Lwanga shot from a distance for custodian Alionzi Nafian to only pick the ball from the net.

    The end to end game wasn’t over until the 88th minute when forward Milton Karisa sprinted past experienced custodian Benjamin Ochan to tap in an empty net which  separated the two sides.

    L-R: Patrick Ntege (National Teams’ Manager), Uganda Cranes coach Micho and Team Coordinator Geofrey Massa in a deep discussion after the game at Lugogo

    After the match,  the Coach Sredojevic Milutin  told www.fufa.co.ug that this practice match is vital in the team’s preparation ahead of the crucial double encounter against Rwanda.

    ‘Playing against KCCA FC has put us in a position  of having a perfect replacement for an international friendly because of the the extra 12th player  which KCCA had thus limiting the space which pushed our players to think first.  We are planning for another friendly on Sunday and after that we shall start concentrating more on that game against Rwanda’ noted Micho.

    The team will resume training on Friday, 1st October 2021.

    Milton Karisa (extreme right) talks to Paul Patrick Mbowa while Livingstone Mulondo wipes the sweat after the hard work in training

    Uganda Cranes XI:

    Alionzi Nafian (GK), Innocent Wafula, Aziizi Kayondo, Najib Fesali, Geofrey Wasswa, Denis Iguma, Mahad Kakooza, Julius Poloto, Yunus Sentamu, Martin Kizza, Cromwell Rwothomio

    Uganda Cranes Second half team:

    Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Rogers Mato, Herbert Achai, Livingstone Mulondo, Musa Ramadhan, Patrick Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu, Milton Karisa,Ibrahim Orit, Sadat Anaku, Brian Aheebwa

  • Micho reduces Squad to 28 players ahead of World Cup clashes with Rwanda

    Micho reduces Squad to 28 players ahead of World Cup clashes with Rwanda

    7.10.2021:  Rwanda Vs Uganda – Kigali
    10.10.2021: Uganda Vs Rwanda- Wakiso 

    The Uganda Cranes continued with preparations for the regional derby to be played over two legs against Rwanda in the FIFA World Cup Qatar2022 Qualifiers due on 7th and 10th October.
    The team of local players held a training session on Wednesday morning at the Omondi Stadium, Lugogo where the technical team took the players through drills that helped on strength, power and mobility.
    After the session, the head Coach Sredojevic Milutin reduced the squad to 28 players while the other five have been placed on the standby list.  

    Uganda Cranes Performance coach Franck Plaine addressing the players during training at Lugogo on Wednesday morning
    L-R Goalkeepers Simon Tamale, Mutakubwa Joel and Jack Komakech training on Wednesday at Lugogo
    Defenders Kayondo Abdu Aziizi and Paul Willa testing their fitness levels during training on Wednesday

    Players in camp  
    Goalkeepers: Mutakubwa Joel (Express FC), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC), Tamale Simon (SoltiloBright Stars FC)

    Defenders: Willa Paul (Vipers SC), Wafula Innocent (KCCA FC), Mandela Ashraf (URA FC), Achai Herbert (KCCA FC) , Kayondo Abdu Aziizi (Vipers SC) , Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Iguma Denis (KCCA FC), Najib Fesali (URAFC), Mulondo Livingstone (Vipers SC), Waswa Geofrey (KCCA FC), Ramadan Musa (KCCA FC), Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Mbowa Patrick (URA FC), Kakooza Mahad (Express FC), Kagimu Shafik(URA FC), Karisa Milton (Vipers SC), Mato Rogers, Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Orit Ibrahim (Vipers SC), Kizza Martin (Express FC)

    Strikers: Sentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Mukwala Stephen (URA FC), Rwothomio Cromwell (URA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC), Aheebwa Brian (KCCA FC

  • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers: We are preparing players for game situations, Micho

    FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers: We are preparing players for game situations, Micho

    Uganda Cranes team (mainly composed of local based players) continues with preparations for the upcoming double encounter against neighbors Rwanda in Kigali and Wakiso.

    The team has trained at Lugogo on Tuesday morning and conducted intensive training session under the watchful eye of Serbian tactician Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic, alongside members of the technical team.

    Micho gives instructions to the players
    L-R: Moses Basena (Assistant coach), Micho (head coach) and Fred Kajoba Kisitu (Goalkeeping coach)

    Talking to www.fufa.co.ug after the session, Micho disclosed that in this second phase, he is preparing the team for competitive match situations before the Rwanda encounter. 

    ‘We have started the second phase of our preparations for Rwanda after a successful Eastern Region Tour.  We are planning to have two practice matches against KCCA on Thursday and Vipers on Sunday to prepare the boys in match situations as we wait for the foreign based players are expected to start joining the camp by Monday.’ Said  Coach Micho.

    Uganda Cranes players in a ball work session at Lugogo

    The team is residing at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi.

    Players in camp:

    Goalkeepers: Mutakubwa Joel (Express FC), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC), Tamale Simon (SoltiloBright Stars FC)

    Defenders: Willa Paul (Vipers SC), Wafula Innocent (KCCA FC), Mandela Ashraf (URA FC), Achai Herbert (KCCA FC) , Kayondo Aziz (Vipers SC), Kaddu George (Wakiso Giants FC), Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Iguma Denis (KCCA FC), Najib Fesali (URAFC), Mulondo Livingstone (Vipers SC), Waswa Geofrey (KCCA FC), Ramadan Musa (KCCA FC) 

    Midfielders: Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Mbowa Patrick (URA FC), Kakooza Mahad (Express FC),  Wamana Ibrahim (UPDF), Kagimu Shafik(URA FC), Bagole David (Vipers SC), Karisa Milton (Vipers SC), Mato Rogers, Ojera Joackim (URA FC), Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Orit Ibrahim (Vipers SC), Kizza Martin (Express FC)

    Strikers: Sentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Stephen Mukwala (URA FC), Rwothomio Cromwell (URA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC), Aheebwa Brian (KCCA FC), Kasirye Davis (KCCA FC)

    Team manager Geofrey Massa (left) with head coach Micho
    That is Life; That is Nivana: Fitness and performance coach Franck Plaine sips the fresh Nivana water
  • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers: Micho names provisional squad of local based players for matches against Rwanda

    FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers: Micho names provisional squad of local based players for matches against Rwanda

    Uganda Cranes Head coach Milutin Sredojevic has named a 33 man Squad of local based players to start preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar Qualifiers 2022 against Rwanda due on 7th and 10th October 2021.

    The camp started on Sunday after the team returned from Mbale for the Uganda Cranes Regional Tour which the National team won 1-0 against the Eastern Region Select team.  

    The team will train later today at Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.

    The foreign based players will be added to the Squad by the coach as and when FIFA dates are opened.

    The 33 man Squad

    Goalkeepers: Mutakubwa Joel (Express FC), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC), Tamale Simon (SoltiloBright Stars FC)

    Defenders: Willa Paul (Vipers SC), Wafula Innocent (KCCA FC), Mandela Ashraf (URA FC), Achai Herbert (KCCA FC) , Kayondo Aziz (Vipers SC), Kaddu George (Wakiso Giants FC), Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Iguma Denis (KCCA FC), Najib Fesali (URAFC), Mulondo Livingstone (Vipers SC), Waswa Geofrey (KCCA FC), Ramadan Musa (KCCA FC) 

    Midfielders: Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Mbowa Patrick (URA FC), Kakooza Mahad (Express FC),  Wamana Ibrahim (UPDF), Kagimu Shafik(URA FC), Bagole David (Vipers SC), Karisa Milton (Vipers SC), Mato Rogers, Ojera Joackim (URA FC), Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Orit Ibrahim (Vipers SC), Kizza Martin (Express FC)

    Strikers: Sentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Mukwala Stephen (URA FC), Rwothomio Cromwell (URA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC), Aheebwa Brian (KCCA FC), Kasirye Davis (KCCA FC)

  • Vipers SC defeats BUL FC to win second Stanbic Uganda Cup

    Vipers SC defeats BUL FC to win second Stanbic Uganda Cup

    Stanbic Uganda Cup 2021:

    • Final: Vipers SC 8-1 BUL FC

    Vipers Sports Club was ruthless enroute to winning the 2021 Stanbic Uganda Cup.

    The Venoms humbled BUL Football Club 8-1 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on Sunday, 26th September 2021 in a closed door duel played under rainy conditions.

    Yunus Sentamu led the damage with four goals, Ceaser Lobi Manzoki added a brace before a goal apiece by Livingstone Mulondo and Milton Karisa.

    Substitute Hamis Tibita scored the consolation for BUL as Vipers won their second Uganda Cup since the 2016 triumph over Onduparaka (3-1 at Nakivubo War II Memorial stadium).

    Vipers also set a new record of most goals by a club in a single final match in this competition.

    Prizes:

    Besides the Cup and gold medals, Vipers also pocketed Shs. 50M from the sponsors Stanbic Bank Uganda and Kansai Plascon.

    BUL took home Shs 20M. Four Vipers’ players clinched individual awards with the top scorer Manzoki finishing on 7 goals, best midfielder (Bobosi Byaruhanga), best goalkeeper Fabien Mutombora and most outstanding defender Livingstone Mulondo.

    FUFA first Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA Hononary President and owner of Vipers Sports Club Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, sponsors’ representatives from Kansai Plascon and Stanbic Bank, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson and a few selected personalities graced the final.

    Ceaser Lobi Manzoki with the golden boot. He finished with 7 goals
    Best midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga shows off his trophy and Flat Television screen
    Vipers XI Vs BUL

    Team Line Ups:

    Vipers XI: Fabien Mutombora (G.K), Paul Willa, Dissan Galiwango, Livingstone Mulondo, Bashir Asiku, Sirajje Ssentamu, Bobosi Byaruhanga, David Bagoole, Milton Karisa, Ceasar Lobi Manzoki, Yunus Sentamu

    Subs: Denis Kiggundu (G.K), Allan Kayiwa, Abdul-Azizi Kayondo, Paul Mucureezi, Abdu Karim Watambala, Ibrahim Orit, Dan Sserunkuma

    Head coach: Alberto Oliveria

    BUL XI Vs Vipers

    BUL XI: Sanon Mulabi (G.K), Aggrey Madoi, Walter Ochora, Fredson Gwotto, Godfrey Akol, Allan Kiggundu, Owen Mukisa, Simon Peter Oketch, Musa Esenu, Martin Aprem, Joseph Ssemujju

    Subs: Hamis Tibita, Richard Wandyaka, Ambrose Kirya, Ibrahim Mugulusi

    Head coach: Alex Isabirye

    Match officials:

    Center Referee: George Olemu

    Assistant Referee 1: Mustapha Mafumu

    Assistant Referee 2: Ahmed Kakembo

    Fourth Official: Lucky Razake Kasalirwe

    Referee Assessor: Brian Miiro Nsubuga

  • Eastern Region Select 0-1 Uganda Cranes: Ojera scores in Mbale

    Eastern Region Select 0-1 Uganda Cranes: Ojera scores in Mbale

    Uganda Cranes edged Eastern Region select 1-0 during the regional tour encounter at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday, 25th September 2021.

    Second half substitute Joackim Ojera scored the lone goal in the 52nd minute.

    Ojera scored past goalkeeper Edward Kasibante after a corner kick from Julius Poloto was headed straight to the goalkeeper by Brian Aheebwa.

    In the first half, Julius Poloto came close with a distant shot on target saved by goalkeeper Kasibante.

    Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Nafiani Alionzi saved a one against one with Edmond Wabonka as Nassur Nadala and Emma Mukisa.

    There were wholesome changes for both teams in the second half to give the different players opportunities to feature.

    Rogers Mato in action against Eastern region select team player Isma Kaliaswa
    Uganda Cranes Technical Team and some subsistute players

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic was happy for the result and the second half performance from the team.

    ‘It was a spirited performance from the team especially in the second half. This is the start of the preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 double header qualifiers against Rwanda with the locally based players and later the foreign based players shall join in’ Micho told the media after the match.

    Eastern region select team head coach Godfrey “Toldo” Awachango was full of praise for the performance but ruined the missed goal scoring opportunities.

    ‘We staged a gallant performance against Uganda Cranes and we could easily have won the game if we had converted the goal scoring opportunities created. This is a great moment for the young players to build their confidence ahead of their respective careers’ Awachango noted.

    The regional tours are jointly funded by Airtel Uganda and Nile Breweries Limited, under the Nile Special brand.

    Eastern Region Select Team XI Vs Uganda Cranes

    Team Line Ups:

    Eastern Region XI: Edward Kasibante (G.K), Stephen Namisi, Peter Lusibula (Captain), Ibrahim Pengere, Tiff Kahandi, Isma Kaliaswa, Francis Odongo, Farhadi Aneku, Edmond Wabonka, Emma Mukisa, Nassur Nadala

    Substitutes: Stephen Makumba (G.K), Edmond Otim, Lawrence Olabaro, Raymond Othieno, Usama Kayeba, Saadi Ismail, Zanuni Mugooya, Bosco Luyonlo, Bonifancesio Chideko, Ivan Jackuma

    Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select (First half team)

    Uganda Cranes XI: Alionzi Nafian (G.K), Innocent Wafula, Herbert Achai, Najib Fesali, Denis Iguma (Captain), Patrick Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu, Rogers Mato, Sadat Anaku, Jude Semugabi, Julius Poloto

    Substitutes: Simon Tamale (G.K), Jack Komakech (G.K), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa, Davis Kasirye

    Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select (Second Half team)
  • Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select | Regional Tours 2021

    Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select | Regional Tours 2021

    • Uganda Cranes Regional Tours 2021
    • Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes – Mbale Municipal Stadium
    • Saturday, 25th September (4 PM) – Behind Closed Doors (Follow Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC TV and all official FUFA Social Media Platforms

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has confirmed the starting line up against the Eastern region select at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday.

    Alionzi Nafian is in goal. Innocent Wafula (right back) and Herbert Achai (left back) with Najib Fesali and captainDenis Iguma at central defence.

    Patrick Paul Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu and Rogers Mato are all in midfield.

    It is a three man attack force of Sadat Happy Anaku, Jude Semugabi and Julius Poloto to seek for the goals.

    The match is to be played behind closed doors because of COVID-19 restrictions but will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and all official social media platforms.

    The substitutes are Simon Tamale and Jack Komakech (both goalkeepers), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa and Davis Kasirye.

    The regional tours are jointly sponsored by Nile Special and Airtel Uganda.

    Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select:

    Alionzi Nafian (G.K), Innocent Wafula, Herbert Achai, Najib Fesali, Denis Iguma (Captain), Patrick Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu, Rogers Mato, Sadat Anaku, Jude Semugabi, Julius Poloto

    Substitutes:

    Simon Tamale (G.K), Jack Komakech (G.K), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa, Davis Kasirye

  • Uganda Cranes ready to face Eastern region select in tour match at Mbale Municipal Stadium

    Uganda Cranes ready to face Eastern region select in tour match at Mbale Municipal Stadium

    • Uganda Cranes Regional Tours 2021
    • Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
    • Saturday, 25th September (4 PM) – At Mbale Municipal Stadium (Behind closed doors) – Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC TV and All Official Social Media Platforms

    The stage is set for Uganda Cranes (team of StarTimes Uganda Premier League) away against Eastern region select side at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday, 25th September 2021.

    Uganda Cranes traveled to Mbale on the match eve in the morning and held the last training session later in the evening.

    Head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic disclosed that this match will help the national team prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers.

    Micho acknowledged that he has very good memories of Eastern Uganda, a side

    ‘I have fond memories of Eastern Uganda. It is where great talents that have served this country come from like the late Edwin Hasule. The match against the Eastern region will therefore present a perfect test for the locally-based players,’ Micho stated after the last training session.

    Uganda Cranes players training at Mbale Municipal Stadium on Friday evening

    Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:

    Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)

    Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)

    Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police), Ashraf Mugume (KCCA), Rogers Mato (KCCA)

    Forwards: Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA), Happy Sadat Anaku (KCCA)

    Eastern Region select team having a talk session after the training session on Friday, 24th September 2021.

    Eastern Region Select Team:

    Goalkeepers: Edward Kasibante (Kataka FC), Stephen Mukamba (Mbale Heroes), Wilson Ochepa (Sky Sports)

    Defenders: Stephen Namisi (Kataka), Ibrahim Pengere (Admin), Peter Lusumbula (Kataka), Robert Edmond Otim (Admin), Tiff Kahandi (Kataka), Ismail Saadi (Busia young)

    Midfielders: Ivan Jakuma (Sky Sports), Francis Odong (Kataka), Bosco Lunyoro, (Mbale Heroes), Raymond Othieno (Admin), Zanuni  Mugoya (Admin), Ousama Kayemba (Kataka Academy), Fahadi Aniko (Busia Young),Bonefansio Chediko (Busia Young), Jack Obwana (Mbale Heroes)

    Forwards: Lawrence Oloboro (Kataka), Edmond Wamboka (Mbale Heroes), Emmanuel Mukisa (Kataka), Muhamundu Byafula (Namusula)

    Uganda Cranes players and officials pray before the start of the training session at Mbale Municipal Stadium
  • Stanbic Uganda Cup Final: BUL FC Head coach Isabirye confident of victory

    Stanbic Uganda Cup Final: BUL FC Head coach Isabirye confident of victory

    Stanbic Uganda Cup Final

    Sunday 26th September 2021

    Venue: FUFA Technical Centre

    No fans allowed inside the stadium due to Covid-19 Regulations

    BUL FC head coach Alex Musongola Isabirye is confident that his side will emerge victors in Sunday’s Stanbic Uganda Cup Final against Vipers SC at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

    BUL FC booked their first ever Stanbic Uganda Cup final following a 1-0 win over Express FC on Thursday while Vipers were 2-0 winners after dispatching Police FC at the semifinal stage.

    BUL FC starting XI that downed Express FC 1-0 in the semifinal on Thursday at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru

    At the prematch press conference held at FUFA house on Friday morning, Isabirye hailed his battle hardened eleven troops (players) who managed to overcome Express FC, thanks to the game’s solitary strike by Owen Mukisa.

    ‘I am happy my team managed to win yesterday with only eleven players. I thank my players, the club management and fans for the support. I am happy that we managed to reach our first Stanbic Uganda Cup final. I have confidence in my players that we shall win the trophy’ said a beaming Isabirye.

    Alex Isabirye stressing a point during the prematch press conference ahead of Sunday’s Stanbic Uganda cup final against Vipers SC

    Isabirye added;

     ‘We all know finals are won not played, so we are going to win the game on Sunday. My opponent has had enough time to rest and even monitor our team play but that will not worry me at all.’

    Alex Isabirye sharing a light moment with his Club CEO Ahmed Kongola and coach Vincent Titi Kamara at FUFA House on Friday morning.

    Isabirye noted further;

    ‘I want to play the final on Sunday. My team is very ready. However I’m disappointed that my counterpart has not showed up for the press conference. I will be glad to see him on Sunday in Njeru.

    Comparing technical notes? BUL FC Head coach Alex Isabirye sharing some a moment with sports journalist Bogere Kanakulya

    BUL FC will be boosted by the return of Richard Wandyaka and Simon Peter Oketch who missed the semifinal duel against Express FC due to suspension.

    Captain Walter Ochola and Hamis Tibita will also be available for selection after recovering from their respective injuries.

    2016 competition winners Vipers SC will be playing their fifth Stanbic Uganda Cup final.

    Caesar Manzoki of Vipers Sc (L) netted twice against Police FC in the 1st semifinal on Tuesday in Njeru

    The winners of this year’s edition will walk away with Shs50M, runners up Shs20M while semifinalists Shs12M each.

  • Resumption of Covid-19 Vaccination programme for the football family

    Resumption of Covid-19 Vaccination programme for the football family

    FUFA is committed to working with all good willed groups to save the lives of its stakeholders against the COVID-19 pandemic.

    In this spirit, the FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee will conduct another round of vaccination in support of Government’s programmes through the Ministry of Health (MoH) for all Members and officials of FUFA to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

    The vaccination exercise will be held at FUFA House, Mengo starting Monday 27th September 2021 to Friday 1st October 2021 from 9:00am – 1:00 pm on each day.

    The vaccination exercise is for those taking the first dose and second dose.

    The latest programme of vaccination is for all members of the FUFA Executive, Judicial Bodies, Delegates, Secretariat, players of Clubs at all levels for both Men and Women Leagues.

    As earlier communicated (Circular No. 1132) starting, Tuesday 1st June 2021, the Covid-19 vaccination card became a mandatory requirement for participation in any FUFA organised and/or authorised activity or event including but not limited to:

    1. Player registration and licensing for any Competition
    2. Club registration and licensing
    3. Letter of recommendation and secondment
    4. Courses participation
    5. Access to football matches depending on clearance by Government in future.

    For further inquiries contact Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (+256 700 669 922- Chairman FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee) or Mr. Decolas Kiiza (+256 753 374 898- FUFA Deputy Chief Executive Officer-Football).

  • Micho names final traveling Uganda Cranes for Eastern region tour

    Micho names final traveling Uganda Cranes for Eastern region tour

    Uganda Cranes Regional Tours (Eastern Region):

    Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes

    *At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM) – Live on 102.1 FUFA f,m, UBC TV & All official FUFA Social media platforms

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic has named the final 23 man team slated to play the Eastern region select at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Stadium.

    The team had a single training session in Kampala on Thursday afternoon and will conduct the final training on Friday at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.

    Three players; Ashraf Mugume, Sadat Happy Anaku and Rogers Mato were added to the earlier summoned team.

    Micho with the players before the training session on Thursday afternoon
    Some of the players in a talk session
    Goalkeepers Jack Komakech, Simon Tamale and Nafian Alionzi

    Meanwhile, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Vianey Ssekajugo, Cromwell Rwothomio, Kenneth Semakula and Steven Mukwala all who had been called up earlier did not make the traveling list, for different reasons.

    The team departs for Mbale on Friday morning.

    A previous Uganda Cranes’ regional tour to Kitara region at Buhinga play ground in Fort Portal. Due to COVID-19 restrictions fans will not access the Mbale Municipal Stadium but will duly be served with live proceedings via 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC Television and across all the official social media platforms

    The Eastern region tour kick-starts the preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 double header against Rwanda in October 2021.

    Rwanda hosts the first leg on 6th October 2021 in Kigali before the return leg at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende four days later.

    Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel and Nile Breweries Limited jointly fund the regional tours, also meant to take the national team brand closer to the populous in their respective localities.

    Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:

    Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)

    Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)

    Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police), Ashraf Mugume (KCCA), Rogers Mato (KCCA)

    Forwards: Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA), Sadat Happy Anaku (KCCA)