Uganda U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes will be seeking to end their expedition at the African Games 2023 on a high as they take on Senegal in the bronze medal match.
The game slated for Thursday, 21st March 2024 (8PM EAT) at Cape Coast Stadium presents a chance for either Uganda or Senegal to go home with a piece of silverware.
The focus for coach Sheryl Botes is to ensure that her charges can overcone Senegal.
The coach is optimistic ahead of the game and believes Uganda stands a good chance to win.
“We are ready and prepared to face Senegal. Every game requires a different approach and we have tried to look at that in our preparations and I am optimistic that we shall be able to win,” she said.
With this being the final game at the tournament, the coach wants to make a blend of players that have been playing regularly and those that have been on the fringes.
“We will see how we can play and maintain our structure and approach and strike a balance between players that have been playing and those who have had minimal appearance.” She stated.
Uganda will have Docus Lwalisa and Krusum Namutebi return from suspension.
Phionah Nabulime who had an injury concern in the semifinal against Nigeria is back and will be availabe for selection.
The hallmark of Champions is the ability to navigate through tough times and that is exactly what the Uganda Hippos did to book a slot in the final of the men’s football tournament at the African Games 2023.
Uganda needed to come from 2 goals down at halftime to win 4-2 in the semifinals played on Tuesday at Accra Sports Stadium.
A slow start to the game for Uganda gave an opportunity to Congo to take the lead in the 15th minute through Servyl Akaouala who scored direct from a free kick.
Uganda was forced into making a change in the 19th minute when goalkeeper Shamulan Kamya got injured. He was replaced by Abdu Magada.
Congo doubled their lead at the stroke of half time with Mignon Koto calmly slotting the ball beyong Magada.
However, Uganda looked a different team in the second half and indeed went ahead to score four goals.
At the beginning of the second half, coach Morley Byekwaso made a change in the midfield, bringing on Hakim Mutebi in place of Ivan Irinimbabazi.
The change seemed to have turned around the game with Uganda committing more numbers up front in search for goals.
Abasi Kyeyune ignited the comeback, scoring at the hour mark in what was a team goal that saw a string of passes knitted together before the ball hitting the back of the net.
In the 70th minute, Bruno Bunyaga found the equalizer and went ahead to head home three minutes later to send the Ugandan crowd in Accra Sports Stadium into wild celebrations.
Mutebi also got onto the score sheet in the 81st minute to complete a comeback for Uganda.
Uganda Hippos will face Ghana in the final on Friday at Accra Sports Stadium.
Uganda U20 Starting XI
Shamulan Kamya (GK), Haruna Lukwago, Ibrahim Juma, Ronald Madoi, Rogers Torach(C), Ivan Irinimbabazi, Jonah Patrick Kakande, Allan Oyirwoth, Bruno Bunyaga, Arafat Usama, Abasi Kyeyune
Substitutes Abdu Magada (GK), Humphrey Oyirwoth (GK), Apollo Kagogwe, Enock Luyima, Cyrus Kibande, Innocent Kisolo, Hakim Mutebi, Shafiq Magogo, Alpha Thiery Ssali
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes secured the first win at the African Games 2023 in Ghana after overcoming Ethiopia on Tuesday at Cape Coast Stadium.
The Queen Cranes defeated Ethiopia 2-0 with captain Catherine Nagadya and left back Docus Lwalisa scoring a goal each in the first half.
Uganda had drawn 1-1 against Tanzania in the first game played on Saturday last week.
Head Coach Sheryl Botes made one change from the team that started against Tanzania with Juliet Nalukenge starting ahead of Krusum Namutebi.
A brilliant start saw Uganda take the lead in the ten minutes after kickoff through Nagadya who finished from close range after Nalukenge laid the ball to her.
Lwalisa doubled the advantage for Uganda in the 29th minute straight from a free kick that went beyond Ethiopia’s goalkeeper Genet Ermiyas Iltro who had moved a few inches off the line.
The Olila High School student nearly got her second on the day off a ferocious strike outside the box but her effort hit the crossbar.
Coach Botes was forced into making a change in the 43rd minute when defender Shakirah Nankwanga was stretchered off. She was replaced by midfielder Krusum Namutebi.
Goalkeeper Sharon was called into action at the stroke of halftime when she parried Mesay Temsegen’s strike on the crossbar and Ethiopia won a corner kick.
From the corner kick, a long clearance met Nagadya just after the centre line, beat a defender for pace but failed to put the ball beyond the onrushing goalkeeper.
In the second half, Ethiopia mounted several attacks and indeed came close but goalkeeper Kaidu was always alert to deny them.
Shamirah Nalugya, Immaculate Kizza and Harima Kanyago came on later to replace Nagadya, Nalukenge and Catherine Wujja in that order.
The win moves Uganda to four points in two games and will face hosts Ghana in the final group game on Friday.
Uganda U20 Men’s National Football Team continued to send shockwaves to the rest of the teams at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana after securing yet another win.
The Uganda Hippos slain Senegal on Monday at Accra Sports Stadium to make it two wins in as many games.
In the game played at Accra Sports Stadium, Uganda earned a hard fought 1-0 win over Ssnegal, a result that meant they advanced to the semifinals with a game to spare.
Uganda had earlier defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the opening game thanks to goals from Arafat Kizza Usama and Ivan Irinimbabazi.
Coach Morely Byekwaso made one change from the team that had started against Nigeria with Shamulan Kamya replacing Abdu Magada in goal.
Magada sustained a knee injury from the previous game and failed to recover in time.
Senegal had the better start and enjoyed majority of the possesion but Uganda’s backline was able to contend with their attempts.
The first goal scoring opportunity of the game fell to left back Ibrahim Juma in the 9th minute but fired the ball wide.
The breakthrough moment for Uganda came in the 26th minute when Usama pushed to the ground by defender Pape Mamadou Diouf and the Togolese referee Aklesso Gnama did not hesitate to point to the spot.
Oyirwoth took the resultant penalty but intially missed from the first attempt before converting from the rebound.
A minute to the break, Uganda was forced into making a change with right back Haruna Lukwago going off after feeling unwell and replaced by Apollo Kagogwe.
Deep into the added minutes of the first half, goalkeeper Kamya pulled off a wonderful save to deny Senegal’s Famara Camara.
In the second half, Senegal stepped up efforts in search for an equalizer but Uganda was resolute enough to deny their counterparts.
Coach Byekwaso made one more change in the second half with Hakim Mutebi replacing Patrick Jonah Kakande.
Uganda sails to the semifinals. Nigeria beat South Sudan 1-0 in the other Group B match played at the same venue.
Uganda will finish Group action against South Sudan at the University of Ghana Stadium on Friday this week.
Uganda Hippos XI
Shamulan Kamya (G.K), Rogers Torach Ochaki (Captain), Ronald Madoi, Abasi Kyeyune, Ivan Irinimbabazi, Bruno Bunyaga, Arafat Usama Kizza, Patrick Kakande, Juma Ibrahim, Harunah Lukwago, Allan Oyirwoth
Substitutes Humphrey Oyirwoth, Apollo Kagogwe, Cyrus Kibande, Enock Luyima, Hakim Mutebi, Alpha Thiery Ssali, Shafiq Magogo, Innocent Kisolo,
Senegal XI
Prince Hally Gueye (G.K), Ba Daouda, Abdou Aziz Ndiaye, Fallou Diouf Serigne (Captain), Pape Mamadou Diouf, Famara Camara, Mamadou Lamine Sadio, Pierre Antoine Diatta Dorival, Youssoupha Sayang, Mame Alassane Niang, Ousseynou Diahate
The road map to the fifth edition of the FUFA Women’s Cup has been revealed on Monday morning at FUFA Complex, Mengo.
Former Crested Cranes player Oliver Mbekeka conducted the drawing of lots under the guidance of the FUFA Competitions Director Aisha Nalule.
The draw procedure involved placing the top six teams from the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite in pot B, while pot A included seven teams from the FUFA Women Elite League and nine from the eight regions of FUFA.
The round of 32 will be a one-legged tie and teams will go straight to kicks from the penalty mark in case of a draw in normal time.
According to Nalule, a record number of 40 teams registered for the fifth edition eight more than the previous edition.
‘This edition has recorded the biggest number of teams participating since the inauguration of this competition.Twenty teams from the eight regions participated in the preliminaries to join the ten teams from the FUFA Womens Super League and the FUFA Women Elite League, making it a total of thirty two teams.’ She said.
She confirmed that the round of 32 matches are scheduled for March 14th-17th, 2024 and the round of 16 scheduled for the 23rd – 24th April, 2024 while the Quarterfinals will be played between 25th – 26th May, 2024 with semifinals coming between 1st -2nd June, 2024
The final is scheduled to be played either on 8th or 9th June 2024.
Uganda Martyrs Ladies FC are the reigning holders of the FUFA Women’s Cup.
Round of 32 Draws
1.EHCOS SS WFC Vs FC Tooro Queens
2.Moyo Stars WFC Vs Gyco Girls SS
3.Mpororo Queens FC Vs Lady Doves FC
4.Isra Soccer Academy Vs UCU Lady Cardinals
5.High Way Ladies Vs Rines SS WFC
6.Gold Star HS Vs Asubo Ladies
7.Burneside Valley WFC Vs She Corporate FC
8.Entebbe Pride WFC Vs Uganda Martyrs Ladies FC
9.Tagy HS Vs Kawempe Muslim WFC
10.Golden Impact WFC Vs She Maroons
11.Dynamic SS Jeza Vs Kampala Queens
12.Boni Consilii Vs Makerere University WFC
13.Lango Queens Vs Wakiso Hill WFC
14.Kawempe Muslim JT Byafaayo Queen FC
15.Uganda Martyrs JT Vs She Geme FC
16.Sacred Heart Ladies Vs Olila HS
Round of 16 Matchups
Match 17 – Winner M9 Vs Winner M14 Match 18 – Winner 13 Vs Winner 02 Match 19 – Winner 3 Vs Winner 8 Match 20 – Winner 6 Vs Winner 15 Match 21 – Winner 11 Vs Winner 10 Match 22 – Winner 5 Vs Winner 1 Match 23 – Winner 12 Vs Winner 4 Match 24 – Winner 7 Vs Winner 16
Quarter Final Matchups
Match 25 – Winner 19 Vs Winner 23 Match 26 – Winner 20 Vs Winner 22 Match 27 – Winner 18 Vs Winner 17 Match 28 – Winner 21 Vs Winner 24
Semi Finals
Match 29 – Winner 26 Vs Winner 28 Match 30 – Winner 25 Vs Winner 27
African Games 2023 Football (Men)| Matchday Two Group B Uganda vs Senegal Kickoff: 5PM Local Time (8PM EAT)
Uganda U20 Men’s National Team will return to action on Monday to take on Senegal at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana.
The Hippos made a good start to their journey at the Championship by earning a 2-1 win over Nigeria on Thursday last week.
Therefore, the target on Monday at the Accra Sports Stadium will be to maintain that good beginning and perhaps secure a slot in the semifinals.
In the pre-match press briefing, Head Coach Morley Byekwaso lauded his players for the job done in the opening game against Nigeria and hopes they will put up a similar performance against Senegal.
“I thank my players and the technical team for the work done in the first game but that was just the beginning. We are going to face Senegal, a very tough team, number one in Africa and very knowledgeable about the game.I have trust my players and I know they will perform as good as they did against Nigeria.” He said.
Byekwaso indicated he has crafted a plan to take on Senegal and get the desired results.
“We are aware of what they bring to the table and our preparations have been looking at how we can hurt them. They are very good in aerial presence and we have tried to work on that during the last few training sessions.” He stated.
Uganda won the first game 2-1 against Nigeria thanks to goals from Arafat Usama Kizza and Ivan Irinimbabazi.
Usama indicates the players are ready and have tried to keep the win against Nigeria at the back of their minds.
“Of course winning our first game was important but we didn’t allow ourselves to get complacent. Senegal is a good team and we know how they play. So we are ready to face them and keep our target going.” He said.
Senegal won their first game 1-0 against South Sudan who will face Nigeria in the other group B match to be played on Monday.
A win for Uganda will see the Hippos through to the semifinals, for the first time at these Games since 1999 in South Africa.
Team News
Goalkeeper Abdu Magada who sustained a knock in the game against Nigeria has been ruled of the game due to an injury.
Ronald Madoi who limped off in the 75th minute against Nigeria trained with the team on Saturday and Sunday and is likely to return to the team.
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team began its journey at this year’s African Games with a draw against neighbours Tanzania. The group B game played on Saturday at Cape Coast Stadium ended in a one-all draw
Margret Kunihira opened the scores for Uganda in the first half but the Tanzanians were able to score a late equalizer through Aisha Juma Mnuka.
It should be noted that this is the first time that Women’s Football is played at the African Games since inception in 1965.
Queen Cranes coach Sheryl Botes started Sharon Kaidu in goal with Catherine Wujja and Docus Lwalisa playing as the fullbacks while Phionah Nabulime and Shakirah Nankwanga completed the defence line.
In a 4-3-3 system, Krusum Namutebi played at the base of the midfield alongside Shamusa Najjuma and Latifah Nakasi.
Captain Catherine Nagadya led the attack with Zainah Nandede and Margret Kunihira played on either flank.
Uganda started the better side with Kunihira and Nandede troubling the Tanzanian defenders given their pace.
Nagadya had an opportunity to score in the 5th minute but chose to shoot from distance and her effort sailed over.
Moments later, she also came close to finding the back of the net from close range when Kunihira played her through but once again could not find the target.
The breakthrough eventually came five minutes before the break when Kunihira calmly slotted home.
Nandede started the counter attack from her own half and beat two defenders for pace before crossing the ball to the far post to find Kunihira who controlled the ball and drilled it beyond the goalkeeper.
Two minutes after the break, the skipper once again had a glorious opportunity to score but ruled herself offside and instead fired the ball wide.
Coach Botes called for changes later with Juliet Nalukenge replacing Nagadya while Shamirah Nalugya and Immaculate Kizza came on in places of Namutebi and Kunihira respectively.
Tanzania got their equalizer a minute to the end of normal time through Mnuka who scored from close distance.
The Queen Cranes will return to action on Tuesday against Ethiopia before playing hosts Ghana three days later.
Uganda U20 Men’s National Team began its journey at the African Games 2023 on a perfect note after overcoming Nigeria as the two teams faced off on Thursday at Accra Sports Stadium.
The Uganda Hippos put up a remarkable performance to edge Nigeria 2-1 in a closely contested game.
Arafat Usama Kizza and Ivan Irinimbabazi scored in either half to guide Uganda to victory. Nigeria got their consolation goal through Sadiq Muhammad Isiyaka.
Usama opened the scores in the 33rd minute with a clinical finish from close range after receiving a good pass from Allan Oyirwoth.
Oyirwoth ignited a counter attack from within his own half and ran beyond the centre line before releasing a long pass that set through Usama to score.
Nigeria were however able to level matters two minutes later from a corner kick with Isiyaka jumping high to head the ball into the back of the net.
After recess, Nigeria had attempts at Uganda’s goal but the defence line led by skipper Rogers Torach was alert to deny them.
Defender Ronald Madoi sustained an injury in the 71st minute and was replaced by Cyrus Kibande in what was Uganda’s first change.
With nine minutes to play, Irinimbabazi scored from a long range strike when Usama set him up.
A good exhange of passes, saw Usama play a cut back to Irinimbabzi who took a ferocious low drive into the back of the net.
Coach Morley Byekwaso made tactical changes towards the end of the game with Hakim Mutebi replacing Patrick Kakande, Alpha Thiery Ssali coming on in place of Usama while Innocent Kisolo replaced Abasi Kyeyune.
Uganda leads Group B on three points, same as Senegal who won 1-0 against South Sudan on the same day.
The Uganda Hippos will return to action on Monday, 11th March 2024 against Senegal at the same venue.
Uganda Hippos Starting XI
Abdu Magada (GK), Haruna Lukwago, Ibrahim Juma, Ronald Madoi (Cyrus Kibande), Rogers Torach (C), Ivan Irinimbabazi, Abasi Kyeyune, Allan Oyirwoth, Bruno Bunyaga, Arafat Kizza Usama(Alpha Thiery Ssali), Jonah Patrick Kakande (Hakim Mutebi)
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team Head Coach Sheryl Botes Ulanda has named the final squad for the All Africa Games 2023.
The Queen Cranes will for the first time feature at the quadrennial tournament that will take place in Accra, Ghana between 8th -23rd March 2024.
To qualify for the tournament, Uganda finished among the top eight teams in the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
Uganda is placed in Group A alongside hosts Ghana, Tanzania and Ethiopia.
Uganda will start the tournament against neighbours Tanzania on 9th March before taking on Ethiopia and hosts Ghana on 12th and 15th March respectively.
The team will travel to Ghana on Wednesday morning at 11am aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Dan Obote is the Leader of Delegation for both the Queen Cranes (U20 Women) and Uganda Hippos (U20 Men).
Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso has named the 20-man squad that will play at the All Africa Games 2023 Tournament in Accra, Ghana.
The squad named by coach Byekwaso will travel to Ghana on Monday morning (2:45am) aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
The team was flagged off by Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang who was in the company of FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim. This was done during the send off dinner held at Imperial Royale Hotel.
NCS Chairman Ambrose Tashobya and NCS General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel also attended the function.
The other diginitaries included FUFA EXCO Members Sam Mpiima, Rogers Mulindwa and Dan Obote who is also the Leader of Delegation for both Queen Cranes and Uganda Hippos.
The Minister implored the players to offer full commitment while in Ghana and make Uganda proud.
”I want to assure you that Government is fully behind you in terms of support. Personally, I will travel to Ghana to rally behind you. But when you are on the pitch, please remember that you are carrying the Ugandan flag and representing the entire nation. Give in your best effort and make yourself proud.” He said.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim told both the Queen Cranes and Uganda Hippos that they are the future of Ugandan football and must seize the opportunity now.
“Across the World, at your age, players are carrying teams. So you must know that our future is actually you. Go to Ghana and fight and give the coaches of the Senior National Teams a reason to summon you.” He told the teams.
“As East Africa, we shall host AFCON 2027 and this is your best opportunity to start knocking at the door of the Senior National Team.” He added.
Tashobya, the NCS Chairman assured the players that he will be in Ghana to support them.
The tournament will take place between March 7th to 23rd, 2024 in Accra, Ghana.
Uganda is in Group B alongside South Sudan, Senegal and Nigeria. It should be noted that Tunisia withdrew from the tournament.
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team had yet another practice match as preparations for All African Games intensify.
The Queen Cranes played a practice match on Wednesday at MTN-Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, winning the game 4-1.
Catherine Nagadya, Zaina Nandede, Latifah Nakasi and Samalie Nakacwa scored a goal each gor the national team while She Corporate got the consolation through Sharon Apon.
With a few days to the start of the All Africa Games in Ghana, coach Sheryl Botes believes there are several aspects that have been worked upon.
“The friendly games we have played since we entered camp have helped us to attain so much. The emphasis has been mainly on two aspects; how we defend and then the offensive approach,” she said.
The team has played three practice matches since entering camp last week.
“I believe we have worked well on the defensive strategy and our focus going forward will be on the offensive side. We want to create a system that will help us to achieve on both ends of the pitch.” Botes added.
The coach added that they have been able to watch some of the games played by Tanzania, Ethiopia and Ghana who will be our opponents at the All Africa Games.
“We have tried to scrutinize our opponents. The games that Ethiopia and Tanzania in CECAFA and also games that Ghana have been playing. This will help us to get more information about our opponents.”
Uganda will field two football teams (U20 Women and U20 Men National Team) at the All Africa Games Tournament slated for 7th -24th March 2024.
FUFA is highly delighted for strategic relations with the German Embassy Kampala that has seen a number of football personnel in the past and present attaining technical training opportunities in Germany.
For 2024, Brian Umony, a former Uganda Cranes player (2009-2017) who is currently a CAF C Diploma coach and a graduate from Kyambogo University and Bashir Mutyaba also CAF B Diploma coach and Youth Development Manager at FUFA have been selected out of the three candidates submitted by FUFA in June 2023 to attend the Internation Football Coaching Course at the University of Leipzig under ITK program.
Former Uganda Cranes forward Brian Umony
“In our pursuit to live the FUFA vision and mission, international external relations are very key, the Federal German Government through its Embassy in Kampala has remained a formidable partner in supporting football development through scholarships for technical courses, a number of Ugandan football personels have undertaken these training opportunities. We are so delighted and grateful to the Germany Embassy Kampala for the continued opportunities.” said Edgar Watson, the FUFA CEO who also attended a coaching course at Heinnef Training Centre in Germany.
The six-month course (February to July, 2024) is structured as follow;
• Online phase 1 (in own country) 15 February to 28 February.
• On-site lectures in Leipzig: 04 March to June 30 2024.
• Online phase 2: (in own country) 01 July to 31 July 2024.
As part of requirement for the course participants to cover own air travel, FUFA has fully funded international travel arrangements for Umony and Mutyaba who will travel on February 29 2024 and return on June 30 2024.
“This scholarship and part funding by FUFA as support to the two coaches resonates with our 2023-2030 FUFA Technical Master Plan under elite coaching development and particularly international coaching exchange target,” said Ali Mwebe the FUFA Football Development Director who also underwent a Post Graduate Diploma course in Sports Management at University of Leipzig in between 2017 and 2018 under the same ITK program.
“In the same vein, more coaches with suitable profiles shall be selected for such external training and exchange program under FUFA’s commitment to elite coaching development outlined in the Technical Master Plan.” Added Mwebe.
“This is a rare career further training opportunity that I cannot take for granted. The transition period from playing football to holding onto another career is such a challenging activity. I thank FUFA President and entire administration for the nomination and support for this course in the quest to strategically fit into coaching career after playing football. On finishing this six-month coaching course, I am confident will contribute to development of youth talents in the country, the future Uganda Cranes players. Said a delighted Umony who is a CAF C Diploma holder and youth coach working with Proline FC and Academy.
Mutyaba also expressed delight for the opportunity and believes this will help him become better.
FUFA Youth Football Development Manager Bashir Mutyaba.
“This is a great opportunity that I embrace to immerse myself in the rich culture and dynamic learning environment of Leipzig University’s international coaching course in Germany. This will help me expand my horizons, hone my skills, and connect with like-minded individuals from around the globe as I embark on a transformative journey of personal and professional growth as this course provides an enormous and rich curriculum on Youth Football Development and as a graduate of Sports Science, Coaches Instructor and a staff at FUFA in charge of Youth Football Development I believe this is an opportunity that will greatly impact on my professional growth and development.” Stated Mutyaba.
Umony and Mutyaba will depart for Germany on Thursday this week.
The Uganda U20 Men’s Football Team “The Hippos,” concluded a football expedition in Ethiopia, leaving a mark of resilience and determination on the pitch.
The matches served as a crucial step in the team’s preparation for the much-anticipated All Africa Games, scheduled to take place from 7th to 22nd March in Accra, Ghana.The journey saw the Hippos engage in two practice matches in Ethiopia.
The expedition commenced with the Hippos facing the Senior Team of Ethiopia in the Dire Cup, in a match that carried not only prestige but also a trophy and medals.
Despite a commendable effort, the Ugandan side succumbed to a 0-1 defeat.
The encounter, however, provided invaluable experience and insights as the team gears up for the more significant challenge of the All Africa Games.
The Dire Cup, an invitational tournament celebrating the reopening of Dire Dawa International Stadium, was initially set to witness a four-nation face-off among Uganda, Kenya, Djibouti, and host nation Ethiopia. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, both Kenya and Djibouti were unable to make it to the tournament, leading to significant adjustments in the schedule of events thus playing a single game.
In the second game played on Monday against Ethiopia Premier League club CBE FC, the Hippos secured a well-deserved 2-1 win, with Bruno Bunyaga and Hakim Mutebi finding the net in the second half.
The goals reflected the team’s offensive capabilities and resilience on the field.
‘Both opponents have a similarity in tactics though CBE was harder to maneuver considering the fact that players train together for longer periods than it is for national teams where players are summoned from different clubs with different playing styles.’ stated coach Morley Byekwaso.
The Hippos’ journey in Ethiopia transcends beyond victories and defeats as this was part of thorough preparations with eyes set on the continental tournament in Accra, Ghana-The All Africa Games 2023.
The team will return to Uganda for a few days to continue with preparations before going to Ghana.
Uganda U20 Women’s National Team Head Coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes is delighted with the progress of the team as preparations for the All Africa Games 2023 intensify.
The Queen Cranes entered camp on Monday this week and have been through rigorous training to fine tune ahead of the aforementioned tournament slated for next month in Accra, Ghana.
The gaffer has described the mood as positive and indicated the core of the team is slowly improving and shaping.
“The preparations have been good. Now we are just really looking at playing lots of practice matches so that we start forming the team in terms of what players we want defensively and those we want offensively. We have made some choices already and have an idea of how the team will look like.,” she said.
Since the start of the camp, the team has played two friendlies; one against Kampala Queens FC and the other Mt St. Henry’s College Mukono U17 (Boys).
The coach believes such games will enable the players get into shape and know exactly how they must play.
“The purpose of these games is to enable us get into the best shape in terms of fitness, approach and systems. I believe we will be in perfect conditions by the time the tournament starts.” She stated.
Asked about what she has observed since her appointment four months ago, the coach is delighted with the immense talent across the different age groups.
“A few days ago, I was with the U17s and now I am with the U20s. You can see the gap, the experience and maturity of the U20 players. But the U20s are closing the gap and some have already made a breakthrough to the Senior team. There is a big pool of good players and I’m really excited to work across all the age groups.”
“If it wasn’t for the age requirement for the All African Games, where players have to be born in a certain period of time, surely we would take some of the U17s to Ghana.”
CAF decided that the upper age limit at All African Games allows players born on or after 1st January 2002 while the lower age limit allows players born on or before 31st December 2006.
The tournament will take place between 8th – 24th March in Ghana.
Uganda is in group A alongise hosts Ghana , neighbours Tanzania and Ethiopia .
FUFA has confirmed that National referees officiating in all FUFA Competitions will start dressing uniformly in Janzi branded attire.
Each referee will have four sets of jerseys in colours; Pink, Purple, Green and Black.
To facilitate this exercise, FUFA has paid for one full complimentary set worth 280,000 UGX of a Janzi branded package to each of the 200 National Referees to be worn during FUFA Competitions. This FUFA offer has a full black kit(top, short and stockings), whistle and its holder.
The latest development means that national referees totalling (200) will purchase the other three kits from the FUFA Merchandise shop.
All referees will be required to purchase the items from FUFA at a fee of 300,000 UGX for three full sets which contain pink, purple and green kits, red/Yellow cards, holding case, pencil, sweat bands and a pair of Toss coins.
The FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein noted that;
‘FUFA has paid for one full complimentary set while the referees who are required to have all the four packs will meet the cost of the three sets which come at a cost of 300,000 UGX. Referees have been either compromising on what equipment to use during matches or buying the same items listed above of suspect quality at over 700,000 UGX. National referees will be required to have all the four sets,’
Hussein added that ‘This communication serves as information to ask referees to contact FUFA Referees office and pick their packages.’
The referees’ uniforms and other assorted items related to their work are part of a long list of sportswear items produced by Janzi.
‘Zakayo- the official matchball for all FUFA Competitions produced by Janzi was introduced on market last week and has enjoyed great reception from the public.
Football clubs, referees, football competition organizers and the general public are encouraged to place orders with Janzi on +256765332916 and +256743484566 (WhatsApp) or janzi@fufauganda.com.
Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso has revealed the 23-man squad for the Dire Cup in Ethiopia, a crucial preparatory tournament preceeding the All Africa Games 2023 Tournament in Accra, Ghana.
After an intensive six-day camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, blending rigorous training and trials, the team will have a trial tournament in Ethiopia.
The Dire Cup, scheduled to take place between February 24th to 28th, 2024, stands as a vital stepping stone for the Hippos.
The final squad named by coach Byekwaso will travel to Ethiopia on Thursday morning (11AM) aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
The tournament will have four nations including Uganda, hosts Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya.
Coach Byekwaso says, “the tournament in Ethiopia is more than just a contest; it’s a strategic opportunity to fine-tune strategies and assess team dynamics before the All Africa Games.” He stated.
Expressing confidence in his squad, the coach remarked, “The Dire Cup is a crucial phase in our journey. Selecting the final 23 was challenging, and narrowing it down to 20 for such a major tournament is even a more intricate task. However, I believe in the potential of this team, and we aim to harvest the best for the All Africa Games.”
The Dire Cup will serve as a precursor for the All Africa Games, scheduled from March 7th to 22nd, 2024 in Accra, Ghana.
Defenders Haruna Lukwago (KCCA FC), Ibrahim Juma (CD Leganes), Enock Luyima (Vipers SC), Ronald Madoi (SFK Pierikos), Apollo Kagogwe (Wakiso Giants FC), Cyrus Kibande(SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
Midfielders Innocent Kisolo (URA FC), Ivan Irinimbabazi (SFK Pierikos), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC), Allan Oyirwoth (Brook House College), Hakim Mutebi (SC Villa), George Isiagi (Brook House College)
On Friday 16th February 2024 at FUFA Complex in Mengo, FUFA launched Janzi as the official FUFA Sportswear manufacturer. Janzi produced the official FUFA matchball Zakayo and will also produce the official referees’ attire and other sports gear(equipment).
Football lovers enjoy debates and more so about those attached to the beautiful game. Since the launch of Janzi and Zakayo, there have been frequent questions asked about the two new kids on the block from the FUFA Projects list.
In this article, the FUFA Communications Department gives you answers to some of the questions.
1-What is Janzi and what do they do?
Janzi is a registered trademark as the official FUFA Sportswear Manufacturer of all FUFA sports gear and assortments. Janzi will produce items such as Zakayo (FUFA official Matchballs), jerseys, travel bags, tracksuits, caps, hats, branded cups, umbrellas, referees’ kits etc.
2-Who owns Janzi?
Janzi is 100% owned by FUFA.
3– Why the name Zakayo?
The reason behind the name Zakayo was to embrace Uganda’s heritage and we all know that one of Uganda’s biggest tourist attractions are the Chimpanzees. Zakayo was a legendary Chimpanzee whose story dates back to 1963 in Semiliki National Park but later transferred to Entebbe Zoo (now Uganda Education Wild Life Centre) where he lived until his death in 2018. So, the official Matchball was named Zakayo to keep the legacy alive.
4– What are the key details on the Zakayo ball?
The ball has been made with consideration of the latest trends in terms of texture, design, durability and flight. It has patches of the three colours of the Uganda flag. Black, yellow and red that stand for Ethnicity, Abundant sunshine and Brotherhood. The texture on the ball’s outer skin is designed to offer consistent flight, rate of spin and speed.
Zakayo is made of synthetic leather and of Size 5 with a diameter of 8.6 (22-23 cm) and circumference of 27”-28” (68-70 cm). The mass of the Zakayo ball is between 14-16 oz (400-450g) with a pressure between 8.5-15.6 psi (58.6-107.6 kPa).
5 – Was the ball tested enough before its launch?
There was extensive experiment of the Zakayo ball on different grounds, including bare pitches and the texture is suitable to last long enough. Before the final product, there were two samples that were tested on different grounds in Uganda last year.
6 – Where are the balls sold?
The Zakayo Balls can only be purchased at the FUFA Merchandise Shop at FUFA Complex, Mengo. However, FUFA is in the process of releasing guidelines on how to become an official dealer of the Janzi branded sports equipment. The approved list will be communicated to the public through all FUFA media platforms.
7 – What is the cost of the Zakayoball?
The Ball has two categories. Category One which is the premium quality is sold at Ushs 100,000 while category two is sold at Ush 50,000.
8- Where will the Zakayo ball be used?
It will be used during all FUFA Organized Competitions and FUFA Authorized Competitions.
All matches in the Uganda Premier League, FUFA Big League, FUFA Women Elite League, Stanbic Uganda Cup and FUFA Juniors League will be required to use Zakayo during their competition matches.
However, individuals can purchase and own the ball and use it for competitions that do’nt fall under FUFA.
9. Why isn’t the National team using Zakayo?
The different national teams usually participate in competitions organized by FIFA, CAF and CECAFA that already have another official football supplier.
10. Is Janzi open for business with other stakeholders?
Janzi is ready to serve other football stakeholders and other sports disciplines.
Football clubs, football competition organizers and the general public are encouraged to place orders with Janzi on+256765332916 and +256743484566 or janzi@fufauganda.com
FUFA has noticed overwhelming interest by individuals and potential companies that would wish to purchase the newly launched Official FUFA Matchball Zakayo and other Janzi assorted sports equipment.
However, attention is brought to the public that no individual or company has been authorised yet to deal in the Janzi products including Zakayo ball.
The Public is therefore cautioned not to deal with anyone or sports shop that claims to be official dealers of the Zakayo ball and other Janzi sports equipment.
All Janzi products including the Zakayo balls can onlybe purchased from the FUFA Sports Shop in Mengo.
FUFA is in the process of releasing guidelines on how to become an official dealer or distributor of the Janzi branded sports equipment.
The approved and final list will be communicated to the public through all FUFA media platforms.
FUFA also takes this opportunity to remind the public that the National Sports Law 2023 is operational and will be applied to protect the interests of the institution.
