The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has on Tuesday confirmed the postponement of the Championship of African Nations (CHAN) 2020 tournament.
The development comes following the escalating health concerns regarding the wide spread of the COVID-19 disease.
In a letter written to all nations that were supposed to take part in the biennial championship, CAF Acting General Secretary, Abdel Bah confirmed that the tournament has been called off.
Following the growing concern of the COVID-19 virus and the report of the recently concluded Medical Inspection visit to the history country of the Total CHAN, Cameroon 2020 CAF Emergency Committee decided today to postpone the competition until further notice.
Travelling across the continent is growing increasingly complicated and even impossible for some countries, due to the restrictions put in place by the different governments.
CAF administration will propose the potential new dates in due time depending on the improvement of the situation.
Uganda is one of the 16 nations that qualified for the 2020 CHAN edition that was supposed to start in April.
The Uganda Cranes are placed in group C alongside Rwanda, Togo and Morocco.
There are concerns about the escalating spread of the corona-virus disease, COVID-19 and just last week, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared it a pandemic.
The football fraternity has not been spared with several events, matches and activities called off due to fears of contracting the disease.
Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino on Monday, 16th March 2019 wrote to the football community urging them to remain vigilant.
Under these circumstances, we must now do everything in our power to protect fans, players, coaches, and everyone else involved in our beautiful game. Most importantly, the football authorities must take all necessary measures to prevent the virus spreading to the wider community.
Infantino states that FIFA is launching a partnership with WHO to use football as a vehicle to sensitise the public on how to curb the spread of corona-virus.
In partnership with the World Health Organisation, we are launching awareness building initiatives designed to provide practical recommendations and steps to tackle the spread of COVID-19. I highly recommend you to also, at your level, use the power of football to send out and spread these key messages.
The world football community has shown a sense of solidarity and the FIFA President calls for unity in the face of this threat.
We should continue to do the same when thinking about how to address the consequences we will have to face for the future of our game, once this serious risk to human health is behind us. It goes without saying that we all have to take this matter very seriously while, at the same time, remaining calm and assured in both our response and our decision-making.
Some of the precaution measures include;
1. Wash or sanitise your hands frequently, especially before eating and after contact with people.
2. Avoid touching your face, in particular eyes, nose and mouth. This can prevent the virus from entering your body.
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing and use the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of it after use.
4. Avoid close contact (within 1 meter / 3 feet), especially with people who display symptoms of the virus, such as cough or fever.
5. Stay at home if you feel unwell, develop fever or other respiratory symptoms.
Stanbic Uganda Cup holders Proline FC progressed to the quarterfinal stage after overcoming FUFA Big League entity, Kiboga Young/ Mbale Heroes FC over the weekend.
The Lugogo based side ensured their journey to defend the title remained on course with a hard-fought win over Kiboga Young/ Mbale Heroes FC on Saturday in the game played at Mbale Municipal stadium.
Experienced striker Hamis ‘Diego’ Kizza scored the solitary goal of the game to guide Proline FC to victory.
In the same vein, joint record holders (ten times), KCCA FC negotiated past Dove FC on Friday courtesy of Sadat Anaku’s 12th minute header. The striker nodded home from Filbert Obenchan’s cross.
Dove FC ended the game with a player less after Ivan Busingye was sent off for a stamp on Ibrahim Juma in the 70th minute.
In the other round of 16 games played over the weekend, Isaac Odeke was the hero for Light SS as his goal helped the Soroti based outfit to overcome UPDF FC.
Kataka FC defeated Free Stars FC from Mukono district with Emmanuel Mukisa netting the lone goal of the game.
Kitara FC stunned StarTimes Uganda Premier League side Tooro United FC in their own backyard (St. Paul’s Seminary, Fort Portal), winnig the game 2-1.
Geoffrey Abigaba and Maxwell Owachgiu scored a goal apiece for Kitara FC while Yaffesi Mubiru got the consolation for Tooro United FC.
The all- StarTimes Uganda Premier League affair between Kyetume FC and Maroons FC ended in a stalemate and the winner was determined on kicks from the spot.
Normal time ended in a one all draw with Baker Buyala and Abraham Tusubira scoring for Kyetume FC and Maroons FC respectively.
Kyetume FC, however held their nerves to win the tense penalty shootout 5-4 and advance to the quarterfinal stage.
Games between Wakiso Giants FC vs URA FC and SC Villa vs Mbarara City FC will be played at a later date which is yet to be confirmed.
The aforementioned teams have players on the national team that is currently in camp preparing for Championship of African Nations (CHAN).
Uganda U17 National football team put up a remarkable performance on Saturday to dispatch off Tanzania in the qualifiers of the 2020 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
A brilliant show saw the gallant team run riot, winning the game 5-0 at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo to progress to the next stage 6-2 on aggregate.
In front of a fully packed stadium, the girls were in ruthless mode to win in a remarkable style. This was the first win for Uganda against Tanzania in Women’s football.
The Ugandan fans at Lugogo on SaturdayUganda U17 Women Team forward Fauzia Najjemba taking on Tanzania defender
Winger Margaret Kunihira broke the deadlock two minutes from the mandatory first half break with a ferocious strike that beat goalkeeper Aishi Mrisho.
This seemed to have set the ground for Uganda, with the team returning recharged in the second stanza.
Fauzia Najjemba doubled the lead with a well-taken free-kick after a foul on Hadijja Nandago. The stylish player curled the ball just above the wall and her effort went into the back of the net.
Moments later, it turned out to be a scoring spree for Uganda with Grace Aluka’s clearance beating goalkeeper Aishi who had moved off her line.
Uganda U17 Women Team skipper Juliet Nalukenge (R) in action
Skipper Juliet Nalukenge put the icing on the cake with a brace in the closing stages of the game.
Uganda now advances to the playoff round to face Cameroon.
Grace Aluka celebrating her goal against TanzaniaThe message before the match by head coach Ayub Khalifah
The Total 2021 AFCON Qualifier matches between Uganda Cranes and South Sudan that were due on 28th and 31st March 2020 at Namboole stadium have been postponed to a another date that will be set by CAF.
The decision was taken by CAF to avert any growing concerns about the health of its football stakeholders following the breakout of Corona Virus around the globe.
All matches that were due the same weekend have been postponed.
However CAF has announced that any decision regarding the 2020 CHAN Finals tournament over the same concerns about the Corona virus, will only be made after their visit to Cameroon due this weekend 14th and 15th March 2020.
‘Our preparations for the two matches were in top gear. However we need to respect the decision taken by CAF as it is about keep every stakeholder safe in the beautiful game. We shall regroup and plan for the resumption of the campaign when new dates are released by CAF. We encourage our fans to maintain the passion and love towards the Uganda Cranes when matches resume. However the FIFA World Cup U17 Qualifier between Uganda U17 and Tanzania U17 will go ahead. Tanzania arrived in the country today afternoon. FUFA will follow all the guidelines released by the Ministry of Health during the organisation of the match’ said FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein
A full statement from CAF signed by Ag. General Secretary Abdel Bah to all Member Associations
Following the growing concern of the COVID-19 virus and the latest declaration of the World
Health Organization (WHO) describing it as a pandemic. CAF emergency committee has
decided to postpone the following matches until further notice:
– Total AFCON 2021 Qualifiers: Match days 3 and 4 of the qualifiers initially scheduled
from 25th to 31st March.
– FIFA Women U-20 World Cup Qualifiers: Initially scheduled from 20-22 March and 27-
29 March.
– Total Women AFCON 2020 Qualifiers: Initially scheduled from 8th to 14th April.
CAF shall announce the new program in due time.
Concerning the Total African Nations Championship (CHAN 2020) scheduled in Cameroon from
4th to 25th April, a delegation from the CAF Medical Committee is scheduled to visit Cameroon
from 14-15 March 2020. The purpose of this mission is to assess all the preventive measures
taken by the Local Organizing Committee, a decision will be taken after the inspection visit.
On the other hand, CAF has also decided to postpone the Match Commissioners Workshop
scheduled for the 19th & 20th March until further notice.
We would like to assure you that CAF is monitoring the situation closely and working with the
competent authorities such as the WHO on the impact of the virus in the continent and CAF
Competitions.
In the meantime, please accept, dear General Secretary, our sincere regards.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Club safety and security workshop got underway on Tuesday at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
With escalating cases of hooliganism and violence during league games, FUFA thought it wise to have the workshop to equip stadia stewards on how to maintain order and manage violent scenes.
The workshop attracted 35 participants from different clubs across the country and will be conducted for three days.
FIFA and CAF trained safety and security officials Hajji Jamil Ssewanyana, Humphrey Mandu, Hajji Abdul Lukooya and Dixon Okello are the facilitators of the workshop.
In his remarks, Humphrey Mandu who is also the FUFA Deputy CEO- Services officer argued participants to be honest to themselves while attending the workshop because they will help to overcome the vice of hooliganism in stadia.
“This is a very big step towards fighting the vice of hooliganism and violence during league games. I thank FUFA for this bold step and I want to call upon all the people taking part in this workshop to be committed because they have to go out and implement the skills they will gain from here.”
FUFA National security officer, Hajji Abdul Lukooya Ssekabira who is also a member of the FUFA Executive Committee asserted that the purpose of the three-day workshop in to fight against hooliganism.
‘We have officially begun our three-day FUFA Club safety and security workshop. The purpose of this workshop is to fight against hooliganism. Football is a beautiful game that must be enjoyed and watched in peace. We want to have more fans coming to the stadia but with hooliganism, we can’t realize this target.”
StarTimes Uganda Premier League CEO, Bernard Bainamani Bampire who was also a participant lauded FUFA for the workshop and he is optimistic the vice of hooliganism will be solved.
“This is a timely intervention from FUFA as we seek to curb the vice of hooliganism that has painted a bad image in our league. I believe we shall get many ideas on how to solve the challenge and this will definitely help in the long run.”
Participants
Fred Ochen ( Mandela National Stadium Limited)), Lorna Akewu( KCCA FC), William Aupal (Mandela National Stadium Liited), Abu Zikusooka( SC Villa), Emma Bazawula ( SC Villa ) , Juma Ssemanda (KCCA FC),Sula Kamoga (Wakiso Giants FC), Joseph Oundo (Vipers SC), Edison Shaban Sabasaba (Onduparaka FC), Fred Mwanjuzi (URA FC), Bernard Bainamani Bampire (Uganda Premier League CEO), Mansoor Kimumwe( FUFA), Gordon Roy Mundeyi ( Uganda Premier League), Michael Wandera ( Tooro United), Paul Kabaikaramu Paul (Uganda Premier League), Vivian Tendo ( Mandela National Stadium), Issa Kakaire (URA FC), Patrick Kizito ( Express FC), Ronald Ssewankambo (Mandela National Stadium Limited), Jackson Nyiima(FUFA ), Hosea Mukasa (BUL FC), Mathias Mugwanya (Bright Stars FC), ASP Francis Kidega ( Police FC), John Puule ( URA FC), Ronald Kabega (Wakiso Giants ), Eric Luyombya (Wakiso Giants), Hassan Wasswa ( Proline FC), Umar Bumali Mwesigwa (Mandela National Stadium Limited), Ismail Sewaya ( Kiira College Butiki )
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs Town View SS – Valley Ground, Kawempe
Asubo Gafford Ladies FC vs Olila High School – Kitezi Playground
Kawempe Junior team vs Isra Soccer Academy – Valley Ground, Kawempe
Dynamic SS Jjeza WFC vs She Corporate FC – Muduuma
Tooro Queens vs UCU Lady Cardinals – Fort Portal
WIFO Club vs Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga – Luzira SS Playground
Kampala Queens vs Jeram WFC – IUIU Kabojja
Makerere University vs Lady Doves
FUFA Women’s Cup reigning holders Makerere University have been pitted against Lady Doves in the round of 16 draws held on Wednesday at FUFA Complex in Mengo, Kampala.
The fixture between Makerere University and Lady Doves means there will be a repeat of last year’s final.
The University team edged Masindi based side Lady, winning the final 2-0 at StarTimes stadium, Lugogo.
Uganda Martyrs HS CEO John Baptist Ssemujju displays the card after drawing Makerere UniversityJohn Baptist Ssemujju drew Lady Doves against holders Makerere University
In the other round of 16 draws conducted, inaugural winners Olila High School will make a trip to Kitezi to face Asubo Gafford Ladies.
This is also a repeat of the 2017 final that was played at Madibira playground in Busia district.
FUFA Women Super League side, Uganda Martyrs High School will make a short trip to Luzira to face Women In Football Organisation (WIFO) at Luzira SS.
FUFA Competitions officers Phoebe Kutamba drew WIFO against Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga
2018 winners UCU Lady Cardinals have been drawn against FUFA Women Elite League outfit Tooro Queens from Fort Portal.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies will face Town View SS from Bugiri district at home while 2018 losing finalists She Corporate who eliminated Bunyaruguru have been pitted against Dynamic SS Jjeza.
According to FUFA Club Licensing Manager, Ivan Kintu Bayige, the round of 16 fixtures will be played between 25th March – 2nd April 2020.
FUFA Club Licensing Manager Ivan Kintu Bayige conducting the round of 16 draws
He also confirmed that there will not be extra time at this stage in case games end in stalemates in normal time.
In case of a draw, kicks from the penalty mark shall determine the team that progresses to the next stage, meaning there is no extra time.
FUFA Deputy CEO- Football, Decolas Kiiza revealed to the members of the media that the venue to host this year’s final will be confirmed by the end of this week.
In another development, Mr. Kiiza cautioned the general public to remain vigilant, follow guidelines and medical checkups that will be conducted at the different national teams engagements, starting with Saturday’s game between Uganda and Tanzania in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
We are aware of the escalating health concerns with the wide spread of Coronavirus and ahead of the forthcoming national teams matches, we shall have measures to make sure the fans that will come to the stadium will stay safe. We shall have disinfection points at all entrances and places of convenience.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has confirmed that fans will access StarTimes Lugogo on Saturday at no cost as Uganda takes on Tanzania in the 2020 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Uganda will host Tanzania in the return leg of the second round qualifying phase, seeking to overturn the 2-1 loss they suffered in Dar es Salaam at the start of this month.
FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein Marsha confirmed that fans will access the ordinary stands free of charge in a bid to have fans rally behind the team.
“FUFA believes the girls have done a great job so far and they will definitely need the support from the fans on Saturday to advance to the next stage. Therefore, entrance to the ordinary section will be at no cost.” He confirmed.
For the fans that will want to watch the game from the pavilion, the VVIP tickets will be sold at UGX 50,000.
“We therefore call upon football fans and the general public to come and support the girls on Saturday.” Added Hussein.
It should be noted that on Monday evening, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo paid a courtesy visit to the Uganda U17 Girls’ camp at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru and encouraged the players ahead of Saturday’s game.
FUFA President Moses Magogo shakes hands with Uganda U17 captain Juliet Nalukenge
The visit by the FUFA President came with a big promise to the team of two hundred dollars ($200) per player if they eliminate Tanzania and advance to the next round final qualifying round.
‘I have watched you play and I must say I am very much impressed. You are one of the best teams in this category on the continent and that is why we have registered you in as many competitions because we believe in your abilities. We really have a lot of hope in this team and losing out will be an opportunity lost. What you could be missing is just mental toughness and you will need just that on Saturday. They (Tanzania) may be a good side but I believe you are better’ said FUFA President.
The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Tanzania will face either Cameroon or Sao Tome and Principe in the final qualifying phase.
The 2020 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will be played in November in India.
FUFA president Eng. Moses Magogo has challenged the national U17 women football team players to believe in themselves and be mentally tougher when they play Tanzania this weekend.
Uganda will attempt a comeback at home against Tanzania in the return leg of the FIFA U17 Women World Cup on Saturday at the Star Times stadium Lugogo.
The FUFA President paid a courtesy visit to the team presently in camp at the FUFA Technical centre in Njeru on Monday evening and spent a moment sharing with the joyous group of young ladies motivating and inspiring them ahead of the match on Saturday.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo and National Teams’ Manager Patrick Ntege greeting the Uganda U17 Women Technical team
$200 bonus to each player to eliminate Tanzania
The visit by the FUFA President came with a big promise to the team. Two Hundred Dollars (S200) per player is at stake if they eliminate Tanzania and advance to the next round final qualifying round.
‘I have watched you play and I must say I am very much impressed. You are one of the best teams in this category on the continent and that is why we have registered you in as many competitions because we believe in your abilities. We really have a lot of hope in this team and losing out will be an opportunity lost. What you could be missing is just mental toughness and you will need just that on Saturday. They (Tanzania) may be a good side but I believe you are better’ said FUFA President.
Shamirah Nalujja greeting the FUFA President in Njeru on Monday
Recovering from a 2-1 defeat from the first leg in Dar es Salaam was always going to be a formidable task but not an impossible one and according to the FUFA President, the National U17 women football team is one of the best sides on the continent. All they will need is mental toughness and some extra hard work to defeat and eliminate Tanzania on Saturday March 14th when the two sides meet in the second leg of the tie.
Uganda U17 players celebrating Fauzia Najjemba’s goal against Tanzania. Such celebrations wil come with a hefty bonus from FUFA President if they eject their opponents on saturday.
‘We won’t let you down- Juliet Nalukenge –Team Captain
Speaking on behalf of her teammates team captain Juliet Nalukenge promised the FUFA President that they will give their very best to eliminate Tanzania.
‘I want to thank you individually in your capacity as the FUFA President plus the entire FUFA for the love and support you have given us all through. We are very grateful and I want to promise you that on Saturday we won’t betray that love. We shall give our whole. We will be tough and work hard to beat Tanzania’
All smiles in camp after the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo visited the Uganda U17 Womne football team in Njeru.
After the captain’s remarks the team made a request to the FUFA President to buy them some ice cream and chocolates. The FUFA President responded by giving them UGX 1M (One Million). The technical team was also given a cool 0.5 million for their own version of ice cream.
MAIN PHOTO:FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo greeting the National team Captain U17 Women Juliet Nalukenge in Njeru on Monday.
CAF Stadium Inspectors Emmanuel Newton Dasoberi and Owofen Daniel Amokachi are in Uganda for a 2-day inspection of Mandela National Stadium Namboole and St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende as submitted by FUFA to host 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Group Stage Matches.
The two officials arrived on Monday morning and managed to visit Mandela National Stadium where they carried out a thorough inspection of the standards for the stadium.
CAF Stadium Inspector Daniel Amokachi (M) during the inspection at Mandela National Stadium Namboole on Monday
The turf, size of the pitch, dressing rooms, floodlights, technical bench, pavilion, media center, parking are among the areas the CAF officials inspected.
FIFA set the standard that a given stadium should meet to host international matches for its competitions.
On Tuesday 10th the two officials are to inspect St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende before they make a final report to FIFA to approve or not to approve the Stadiums for the host of 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage matches.
‘FUFA submitted two stadiums, Mandela National Stadium Namboole and St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende for inspection to host 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Group Stage Matches. The process is going on well and will run for two days. We shall wait for the report to be submitted to FIFA to find out if our Stadium is capable of hosting group stage qualifier matches.‘ Said FUFA Club Licensing Manager Ivan Kintu Bayige.
CAF Stadium Inspectors in a brief meeting with Mandela National Stadium Management
If the two stadiums fail to meet FIFA required standards Uganda Cranes will host the FIFA World Cup Qualifier Group Stage Matches on foreign land.
Daniel Amokachi is also a CAF Football Legend and a former Nigerian international who last visited Uganda in 1993 during an AFCON qualifier match against Uganda Cranes.
A group Photo of CAF Stadium Inspectors and Mandela National Stadium Management
MAIN PHOTO: FUFA Club Licensing Manager Ivan Kintu Bayige (M) with CAF Stadium Inspectors Daniel Amokachi (L) and Emmanuel Newton Dasoberi at the Mandela National Stadium
Dependable left back Mustafa Kizza joined the Uganda Cranes camp on Monday preparing for the 2020 CHAN Finals due in Cameroon. Kizza trained today at Gems International school in Butabika for the first time after returning from trials in Switzerland.
There was also good news as goalkeeper Charles Lukwago got involved in the full training while Halid Lwaliwa and Karim Watambala continued with specialised sessions today morning.
Mustafa Kizza (R) with Paul Willa (l) and Musitafa Mujuzi during training today at Gems International School.
McKinstry to miss Mutyaba
The Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry has 34 players in camp but he is likely to miss experienced Mike Mutyaba during tournament.
Mutyaba missed training on Monday morning to undergo medical tests after feeling unwell with his health on Sunday.
The player will be under supervision by both his club KCCA FC and Uganda Cranes medical team until final results of the tests are provided.
Uganda Cranes coach Johnathan Mckinstry.
‘Mike Mutyaba reported to us on Saturday that he wasn’t feeling well. The doctor in camp took initial tests but it was decided that the player goes for further tests in hospital. With the insurance that players have, it has given us the chance to conduct other tests which have been completed but there is one more test to be done in conjunction with KCCA FC. At the moment it is unfortunate that we are ruling Mutyaba out of the CHAN tournament on the advice of the medical team.
KCCA FC and FUFA will continue to monitor the situation as we focus on the player’s full recovery’ said Uganda Cranes coach Johnathan Mckinstry.
Mike Mutyaba (L)Uganda Cranes coach Johnathan McKinstry during training on Monday
The attitude by the national U17 women football team players is nothing less than perfect and signals to great things according to head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi.
The team is currently camping at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru but Ayub sees no or little reason to worry about following his side’s 2-1 loss to Tanzania in the first leg of the FIFA U17 Women World Cup Qualifier.
A double from Aisha Masaka canceled out Fauzia Najjemba’s early strike to hand the East African neighbors the slim advantage in the first leg.
Uganda U17 forward Fauzia Najjemba in action during Friday morning training session at FUFA Technical Centre
Najjemba’s away goal is the advantage that Uganda intends to build on March 14th, 2020 at the StarTimes stadium as they try to overturn the deficit and advance into the final qualifying round.
Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi indicates that re-finding their rhythm will be the most important thing for his side ahead of next weekend’s showdown.
“We lost a match 2-1, It is normal to lose a game but not in such a manner. We prepared very well and were indeed a stronger team and deserved a better result. We had some moments when our strikers came short in the game but that is how it is.” Ayub stated.
“It is very important for my players to be confident. We lost one game out of 13 matches played or even more than that, so two draws, one loss. It is very important to rebuild that confidence and such that the attitude is right ahead of the return leg.’
‘The spirit is right and the mood-building, they want to change the result of the first game and want to win next week to go to the next step. As we prepare for the decisive return leg I am impressed by the spirit of my players and attitude in training. The girls are responding very well, we have tried to correct the mistakes from that match as well as concretising our attack because we will need the goals.’ Ayub stated.
Uganda U17 National Team defender Grace Aluka (left) Challenged by midfielder Moureen Nangozi during training
WE ARE WORKING ON A PERFECT PLAN
‘Tanzania is a team that can defend very tightly. They’re good on the counter-attack but we are working on how to handle all that.’Added Ayub
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda U17 players Samali Nakacwa (left) and Gillian Akadinda in training at the FUFA Technical Centre
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has revealed the official slogan for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The slogan/theme is dubbed “The road to Cameroon is clear” and this was officially revealed on Thursday.
Uganda Cranes coach Jonathan McKinstry with Airtel’s head- Brand and Communications, Remmy Kisakye
Uganda is on course to qualifying for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations having garnered four out of the possible six points from the open two games.
The Uganda Cranes drew goalless away against Burkina Faso and won 2-0 at home against Malawi.
Uganda Cranes head coach Jonathan McKinstry poses for a photo with some of the FUFA staff members
With such a brilliant start, the road to Cameroon is definitely and Uganda will start preparations ahead of the double header against South Sudan this month.
Uganda will host the first leg on 28th March 2020 at Mandela National Stadium while the return leg will come three days later at El- Hilal Stadium in Sudan.
28th March 2020 – Uganda Vs South Sudan – Mandela National, Namboole
31st March 2020 – South Sudan Vs Uganda – Khartoum
Uganda Cranes head coach Jonathan McKinstry has summoned a squad of 20 foreign-based players to start preparations ahead of the 2021 Total Africa Cup of Nations qualifier games against neighbours South Sudan.
However, five (5) local-based players will be added to the squad from the current CHAN training camp.
Uganda will play a doubleheader against South Sudan with the first leg slated for 28th March 2020 at Mandela National Stadium while the return leg will be played on 31st March 2020 at El- Hilal stadium in Khartoum, Sudan.
It should be noted that South Sudan host their home games in Sudan because Juba Stadium is still under refurbishment.
FUFA Deputy CEO (Football) Decolas Kiiza and Uganda Cranes Head Coach Johnathan McKinstry during the Press conference on Thursday
McKinstry announced a squad of 20 players during a press conference held at FUFA Complex on Thursday afternoon.
There are three players that have earned their first call to the Uganda Cranes and these include Elvis Okello Bwomono who plies his trade with South End FC in England.
The other two include Jayden Onen and Karl Anthony Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu who play for Brentford(England) and Heart of Midlothian(Scotland) respectively.
Uganda is in group B alongside Burkina Faso, South Sudan and Malawi.
Images of the Uganda Cranes Squad summoned today for the two matches against South Sudan
Full Squad Summoned
Goalkeepers: Dennis Masinde Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Salim Jamal Magoola (Al Hilal, Sudan)
Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Elvis Okello Bwomono(South End, England), Joseph Benson Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Ronald Mukiibi( Östersunds FK Sweden) , Timothy Awany ( F.C. Ashdod, Israel), Brevis Mugabi (Motherwell FC, Scotland), Alex Kakuba ( C.D. Cova da Piedade, Greece)
Midfielders: Mike Azira(Chicago Fire, US) , Jayden Onen (Brentford B, England), Taddeo Lwanga(Tanta FC, Egypt), Aucho Khalid ( Misr Lel Makkasa SC), Allan Okello (Paradou AC, Algeria), Moses Waiswa (Super Sport United FC, South Africa)
Forwards: Emmanuel Arnold Okwi(Al Ittihad Alexandria, Egypt), Abdu Lumala (Pyramids FC, Egypt), Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Alexis Bakka (UMEA FC), Sweden, Karl Anthony Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu(Heart of Midlothian FC)
What you need to know about the new players summoned
Elvis Okello Bwomono
He was born on 29th November 1998 and currently plays as a full-back for League One club Southend United.
Bwomono was born in Uganda and lived here until the age of three before moving to London, England where he attended Hatch End High School.
As a footballer, he started his career at Queens Park Rangers FC before later joining Southend United at the age of 14. In October 2017, he signed his first professional contract with the club.
Jayden Onen
Onen was born on 17th February 2001 and currently plays for Brentford B in England. He played in the Arsenal academy and also formerly played for Brighton and Hove U21 team.
Karl Anthony Uchechukwu Mubiru Ikpeazu
Mubiru was born in Harrow, London of Nigerian/Ugandan parentage. He was born 28th February 1995 and currently plays as a forward for Scottish Premiership Club Heart of Midlothian.
He is a former Reading Academy player who also played for clubs like Watford in 2013, Crewe Alexandra, Doncaster Rovers, Port Vale, Blackpool and Cambridge United in England before signing with Heart of Midlothian in April 2018.
She Corporate Women Football Club marked their return to Makerere University Business School (MUBS) with victory after overcoming Lady Doves in the only FUFA Women Super League game played on Wednesday.
Since the start of the season, She Corporate had not used the MUBS Arena in Nakawa after initially failing to meet the minimum FUFA Licensing standards.
It should be noted that they hosted their league games in the first round at Luzira Prisons Grounds and Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga.
However, the MUBS Arena was given green light ahead of the second round and She Corporate seized the opportunity to register their second win of the season.
In a closely contested game, winger Susan Atim got the lone goal of the game midway through the second stanza to guide the Sharks to victory.
The win elevated She Corporate to 4th place on 7 points while Lady Doves remained 3rd on the log with 10 points.
The loss to She Corporate was the third successive defeat for Lady Doves in the league. They lost 2-0 to Uganda Martyrs High School and were humiliated by Kawempe Muslim, losing 4-1.
In the FUFA Women’s Cup round of 32 match played on Wednesday at the Mighty Arena in Jinja, Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC defeated Jinja SS, winning 2-0 with goals coming from Margaret Kunihira and Anita Namata.
MAIN PHOTO: She Corporate defender Wilmer Nantumbwe (in blue jersey) takes on a Lady Doves player
Police FC defender Henry Katongole has been added to the Uganda Cranes provisional squad preparing for CHAN Cameroon 2020.
The lanky central defender joined the rest of the players on Monday evening at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi and was part of the Tuesday morning session at GEMS Cambridge International School in Butabika.
According to the Coach Johnathan McKinstry, Katongole has been on the list of players who they monitored during the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Games.
Group Photo for all the players in training on Tuesday
‘Despite our communication prior to the camp to all the clubs, the information we got on certain players wasn’t clear as we would have liked it. We are still assessing some players like John Revita who has a problem with his knee and for precaution measures we bring in a Center back and who was one of the players in our discussion when we were selecting the initial training squad and deserved to come in. We have not ruled out Revita because we are still monitoring his progress. We are confident that Henry will compete that he will compete for a place in CHAN’ Said McKinstry.
Henry KatongoleThe players go through the paces
KCCA FC, Proline FC and Kyetume FC players were released to join their teams because their teams had Uganda Premier League engagements and were not part of the day two training session.
According to the coach Johnathan McKinstry there was an agreement between the Uganda Cranes Technical team and the Uganda Premier League Secretariat to release players whenever their clubs were engaged.
McKinstry gives defender Geofrey Wasswa instructionsThe ball work session
The Cranes will be engaged in a Pre CHAN three nations tournament in Kampala from 17th – 21st March where nations like Zambia and Mali will take part.
National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Holdings Limited has officially handed over a brand new generator to FUFA on Tuesday.
NIC , one of the partners of Uganda Cranes extended their strong relationship with the federation that has lasted for over 12 years by officially handing over a new 30 KVA three-phase generator.
This is an upgrade of the first generator NIC Holdings Limited donated to FUFA in 2008.
While handing over the generator, NIC Managing Director, Mr. Folayan Bayo indicated this will help FUFA to carry out its activities more efficiently.
NIC Holdings Limited Managing Director, Mr. Folayan Bayo addressing the media during the handover of the new generator at FUFA House.
‘I commend FUFA for its continued growth most especially the construction of the new offices. The generator is meant to improve the services that FUFA offers to Ugandans and enable them to tackle the key issues involving football especially in regards to reaching the grassroots population’
Mr. Bayo added that as a company, NIC Holdings Limited is committed to helping footballers in Uganda to realize their dreams.
‘Our vision in supporting football in Uganda is to create an enabling environment for our footballers so that they too can compete on a global platform and rank among the best’
FUFA President Moses Magogo, who also graced the function lauded NIC Holdings Limited for the new generator and indicated this will help in making work easier at the FUFA Complex that has three buildings.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo addressing the media during the official handover of the new generator
‘We are in a modern era where most of the work requires the use of power and you definitely need back up like this generator. We thank NIC Holdings Limited for the brand new generator given to the federation because this will help us in fulfilling our tasks. Most importantly, we appreciate the fact that such companies have kept trust in FUFA and continue to work with us. We have partnered with NIC Holdings for a long time and they still believe in our marriage. For 12 years we appreciate your contribution to the development of the game. We have been able to receive three generators from NIC since our partnership began. We approached NIC to have a new Generator and fortunately they accepted’
From L-R: FUFA Marketing Director, Esther Musoke, NIC Holdings Assistant Manager Corporate Communications, Anjella Ajiku, Manager Financial Institutions and Business Development, Dorath Muzeire, NIC Holdings Limited Managing Director Folayan Bayo, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo and NIC Holdings Head Corporate and Communication Pamela Abonyo
This is the third generator that FUFA is receiving from NIC Holdings Limited since 2008. One is at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru, the other will be used at the Cranes Paradise Hotel while the new one will work at the FUFA Complex.
Last year, NIC Holdings renewed their partnership towards Uganda Cranes with 660M that covers 33 players and technical staff in case of injuries and deaths that may occur while the beneficiaries are either on or off the pitch. NIC also insures players in the FUFA Drum and FUFA Juniors League.
Pre- CHAN Tri Nations Tournament (17th -21st March) Uganda, Zambia and Mali at Namboole stadium.
Dates:
17th March Uganda vs Zambia
19th March 2020 Mali vs Zambia
21st March 2020 Uganda vs Mali
After the Uganda Cranes Coach Johnathan McKinstry summoned his CHAN Squad last week, there was little time to waste as the players reported to camp on Sunday evening at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi.
Real business got underway on Monday morning with the training at GEMS Cambridge International School in Butabika when thirty one (31) of the thirty-four summoned players attended the first training session.
Under the watchful eye of Johnathan McKinstry the head coach with his assistants Abdallah Mubiru, Livingstone Mbabazi, Fred Kajoba the goalkeeping coach and Alex McCathy the Physical fitness trainer, the players had some fitness drills before doing ball work for the day’s program.
Geofrey Wasswa tackles Paul Mucureezi on day one of the training session at GEM Cambridge play ground
McKinstry couldn’t hide his excitement after the players positive response and below is what he said after training.
‘It’s been a good first day, we got all the players in last night for their medical checkings, so the body mass, body fat, all of those sorts of things. So, everyone registered last night, we had a team meeting to outline our expectations for the coming weeks so everyone was clear on what we are looking for. And yet today it’s been a good first day, you got to remember we’ve got sort of 4-5 weeks until the tournament kicks off and now it’s a step by step process obviously some of these boys were part of our group during the CECAFA tournament so they are a little bit ahead in terms of our playing model. The team has got four players in the group who haven’t worked with me as a coach before so they have to sort of learn somethings in terms of how just we want to play as a team, but I think today was a good start for them and the boys who have been with us before helped raise the intensity levels today so for our day one. The intensity was there you can see all the boys are pleased to be here.We looked at a few different options, we could have had the training camp in Kampala but we want our training base to be as similar as possible to what we will experience in Cameroon. Now we can’t get everything exactly the same but look the field here is a good quality grass field and it’s only going to get better. We’ve got the flood lights here which is great at the Cambridge international school because it means as you may be aware our three group games in Cameroon will all kickoff at 8 O’clock in the evening so they will be played under the lights.We have the facility here to train under the lights on occasions which we will do.We think here we’ve found a good home for the next month and am also certain that we are looking forward to a good month here but we hope it’s a relationship that can continue for the months and years ahead for the Cranes‘
McKinstry talks to the players before start of the training sessionGoalkeeping Coach Fred Kajoba with goalkeepers R-L Saidi Keni, Godwin Kiwanuka, Alionz Nafian and Joel Mutakubwa during training at GEMS Cambridge International School in Butabika
