Uganda Cranes will face Eritrea in the final of the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup at the Lugogo Stadium in Kampala on Thursday.
This was confirmed after the two semi-final matches played on Tuesday, 17th December 2019.
Eritrea knocked out defending champions Kenya 4-1 in the early kick off.
Oscar Wamalwa (own goal), Abel Solomon Okbay, Michael Habte Gebremesqel and Robel Kidane found the goals for Eritrea.
Wamalwa scored the consolation for Kenya.
Uganda Cranes’ forward Ben Ocen in action against Tanzania during the semi-finalsUganda Cranes XI Vs Tanzania
Hosts Uganda progressed to the finals after overcoming Tanzania 1-0 with the winning goal coming from striker Fahad Bayo in the 86th minute.
That said, Kenya and Tanzania, the two losing semi-finalists will now battle for third place.
Fahad Bayo in celebrations after scoring the winning goal
Both Kenya and Tanzania faced off in the group stages with Kenya winning 1-0 during a physical group B contest.
Thursday’s final between Uganda and Eritrea will also be a repeat of the group A contest where Uganda won 2-0.
Addressing the media in the official post match press conference, Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry saluted the fighting spirit of his charges as keenly eyes the final as a golden opportunity to win the silverware.
Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry (middle) during the post match press conference at Lugogo
‘I salute the players for the strong mentality shown and great fighting spirit in all the matches played. We need to work together as we look forward the final against Eritrea. We need to win it’ McKinstry stated.
Coming to the 2019 final, Uganda Cranes will be eyeing their 15th title since 1926, the founding year of the tournament, arguably the oldest championship on the entire African continent.
Allan Okello in action against Tanzania
Team Line Ups:
Uganda Cranes XI: Charles Lukwago (GK), Paul Willa, Mustafa Kizza, John Revita, Halid Lwaliwa, Shafiq Kagimu, Bright Anukani, Allan Okello, Joachim Ojera (70′ Abdul Karim Watambala), Fahad Bayo, Ben Ocen (55′ Viane Ssekajugo)
Subs Not Used: Joel Mutakubwa (G.K), Musitafa Mujuzi, Paul Mbowa, Nicolas Kasozi, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Steven Mukwala, Joel Madondo
Head coach: Johnathan McKinstry (Northern Ireland)
Tanzania XI: Aishi Salum Manula (G.K, 31′ Boniface Mnata Metacha), Hassan Salehe Dilunga, Nickson Clement Kibabage, Juma Abdul Jafari Mnyamani, Gadiel Michael Kamagi, Ditram Nchimbi Adgan, Eleuter Herman Mpepo, Bakari Mwamyeto Nondo, Patrick Kelvin Yondani, Yassin Said Mzamiru, Jonas Gerald Mkunde
Subs Not Used: Robert Mapigano David (G.K), Gamba Baraka Majogoro, Lucas Almeida Kikoti, Paul John Nonga, Cleophace Mkandla, Salehe Gereza Mwaita, Mohammed Hussein Mohammed
Head Coach: Juma Mgunda (Tanzania)
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Diraneh Gueidi (Djibouti) Assistant Referee 1: Suleiman Bashir (Somalia) Assistant Referee 2: Liban Abdurazak (Djibouti) Fourth official: Omar Abdoulkadir (Somalia) Assessor: Jean Claude Birimushau (Burundi) Commissioner: Othman Suleiman (Zanzibar) General Coordinator: Amir Hassan (Somalia) Media Officer: Shaffi Abokar (Somalia) Technical Study Group: Daniel Yohannes (Eritrea)
Johnathan McKinstry and the rest of the technical team members
Endless cheers and celebrations rocked FUFA Technical Center Njeru on Tuesday evening, as Uganda U-17 girls players, coaches and the local fans danced endlessly, in jubilation of the Inaugural CECAFA U-17 girls trophy.
Uganda girls now add yet another juniors regional trophy to the boys U-15 event won in August in Asmara Eritrea.
The great achievement of the girls conquest of the region in the youth championship, was cemented by a 2-0 win over rivals Kenya, at the final bend of the one week event that attracted six teams and played on a round robin.
Celebrations for Fauzia Najjemba’s opener
Eventual best player of the tournament and FUFA Airtel female player of the year runner up Fauzia Najjemba opened the scoring in the first half.
Later, the reigning FUFA Airtel female player of the year Juliet Nalukenge rounded up the scoring deep in the second half to take Uganda top of the six team table with 13 points from five games each played.
Juliet Nalukenge celebrates her goalLydia Nekesa hands the captain Juliet Nalukenge the trophy
Nalukenge was Uganda’s top and tournaments second best scorer with 9 goals, three shy from tournaments top scorer and Tanzania striker Aisha Masaka, whose 7 goals in the 10-0 routing of Djibouti earlier in the day, gave her the top scorer’s award.
Uganda head coach Ayub Khalifa had made two changes in the usual starting 11, having given starts to Hadijah Nandago and right full back Akadinda Gillian, for Catherine Nagadya and sick Samalie Nakacwa respectively, and even with the changes.
Uganda remained a better team, holding the Kenyansa at bay and only making them the receivers on several occasions, with Nalukenge, Najjemba and terrific winger Margret Kunihira all coming too close to several occasions.
Uganda U17 players and team officials in celebrations at the FUFA Technical Centre
Even when holding midfielder Kevin Nakacwa was stretchered off with Moureen Nangonzi coming in her place, it still remained impossible for any Kenya threats in a game Khalifa made only one substitution.
“I am very grateful to God for this achievement. I want to thank the players for the hard work, FUFA for allowing the young girls to take part in the girls event. The tournament was not a simple one, it was too competitive and I am glad we are the ones having come out victorious,” Uganda head coach Ayub Khalifa said.
Head coach Ayub Khalifa hoists the trophy with the players
Tanzania, to whom only Uganda dropped points in the 1-1 draw, finished second with 11 points while Kenya came third on 7 points, with tournament’s fair play award team Burundi coming in fourth position after beating Eritrea 4-0 to clobber 7 points too, but with a minor goal difference.
Uganda U17 players and officials applaud the fans
Tournament’s last team was Djibouti, who finished with not goal scored but after conceding 48 goals in the 14-0 loss to Kenya, 11-0 to Uganda, 8-0 to Burundi, 5-0 to Eritrea and lastly 10-0 to Tanzania, although they showed great improvement in the second half of their game against Tanzania, whom they limited to only a single score, having finished the first half 9-0.
Tanzania TeamThe celebrationsKenya Team
Uganda’s win comes in the wake of yet another great triumph that saw the young girls lift the COSAFA tournament following a 2-1 win over South Africa in the recent event held in Mauritius, and with a big number of the COSAFA team players having been on the CECAFA winning side, the future is surely bright for Uganda women football.
Uganda’s Line up against Kenya: Daphine Nyayenga (GK), Stella Musubika, Bira Nadunga, Gillian Akadinda, Sumaya Komuntale, Kevin Nakacwa, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Catherine Nagadya, Margret Kunihira, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba
Subs: Joan Namusisi, Gift Nasasira, Patricia Akiror, Moureen Nangozi, Catherine Nagadya, Zainah Nandede and Zaitun Namaganda
All the tournament refereesAisha Masaka Hamisi (Top Scorer) Burundi representative (Fairplay Award), Daphine Nyayenga (Best Goalkeeper) and Fauzia Najjemba (MVP)
The National Girls U-17 football team will take on rivals Kenya in the final and title deciding game as curtains close at the CECAFA U-17 girls championship today at FUFA technical center Njeru.
Uganda head coach Ayub Khalifa, has made two changes for the first time in the tournament, that has seen the Ugandan tactician use a similar first 11 in the first three won games of the event.
While Khalifa has maintained Uganda Martyrs goal keeper Daphine Nyayenga in the posts, Sumaya Komuntale (King of Kings) on the left full back position and Kawempe Moslem’s Stella Musubika and Olira Girls Bira Nadunga in central defense, Gillian Akadinda replaces Samalie Nakacwa on the right full back.
Another change will see Uganda Martyrs winger Catherine Nagadya raplaced by Kawempe Moslem striker Hadijah Nandago with Margret Kunihira now switching to the right wing and Fauzia Najjemba going on the far left while team captain and reigning FUFA Airtel female player of the year Juliet Nalukenge heading the front line alongside Nandago.
Uganda Martyrs Kevin Nakacwa and Kawempe Moslme’s Shakira Nyinagahirwa retain their positions in the holding and attaching midfield respectively.
Uganda leads the six team table with 10 points from four games and today’s game decides who wins the tournament because second placed Tanzania (8 points) takes on goalless and 37 goal deficit Djibouti and if Uganda slips up against Kenya and Tanzania beats Djibouti, then the Tanzanians will be declared champions.
Uganda’s Line up against Kenya.
Daphine Nyayenga (GK), Stella Musubika, Bira Nadunga, Gillian Akadinda, Sumaya Komuntale, Kevin Nakacwa, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Catherine Nagadya, Margret Kunihira, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba
Subs-Joan Namusisi, Gift Nasasira, Patricia Akiror, Moureen Nangozi, Catherine Nagadya, Zainah Nandede and Zaitun Namaganda.
Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry has confirmed his eleven players that will start against Tanzania in the semifinals of the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup on Tuesday afternoon at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
KCCA FC goalkeeper Charles Lukwago returns between the goalposts after missing two previous games against Eritrea and Djibouti. His Teammate at the Club left-back Mustafa Kizza also makes a come back to the starting line up together with skipper Halid Lwaliwa who was also rested in the last Group A match.
John Revita retains his central defense position while URA FC midfielder Shafiq Kagimu bounce back in the holding midfield alongside Bright Anukani and Allan Okello in the offensive positions of the midfield.
Vipers striker Fahad Bayo will start his third game in the tournament as the lead striker while Joachim Ojera and Police FC forward Ben Ocen occupies the right and left flanks respectively.
Uganda Cranes XI
Charles Lukwago (GK) (KCCA FC), Paul Willa (Vipers SC), Mustafa Kizza (KCCA FC), John Revita (KCCA FC), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA FC), Bright Anukani (Proline FC), Allan Okello (KCCA FC), Joachim Ojera (URA FC), Fahad Bayo (Vipers SC), Ben Ocen (Police FC).
Subs:
Joel Mutakubwa (GK) (Kyetume), Musitafa Mujuzi (Proline FC), Paul Mbowa (URA FC), Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Nicolas Kasozi (KCCA FC), Muzamiru Mutyaba (KCCA FC, Steven Mukwala (Maroons FC), Joel Madondo (Busoga United), Viane Sekajugo (Wakiso Giants).
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes team that started against Somalia
New FUFA Airtel female player of the year Juliet Nalukenge, was all smiling on Sunday evening, as she displayed her newly acquired accolade and brand new Subaru, the award she won on Saturday evening at the awards ceremony held at Speak Resort Munyonyo.
Uganda U17 girls players joined Juliet Nalukenge in the celebrations
The 17-year-old, who is also captain of the Uganda U-17 team currently taking part in the inaugural CECAFA U-17 girls championship at FUFA Technical center Njeru, beat her closest challengers, fellow U-17 teammate Fauzia Najjemba and UCU’s Hasifa Nasuna to the award.
Celebrations for Juliet NalukengeJuliet Nalukenge displays her accolade
In a bid to encourage her teammates and the rest of the girl footballers present at Njeru for match day four, FUFA organized a display of the reigning women football queen of her accolades.
Led by inaugural winner Sandra Nabweteme, who recently arrived in the country for a holiday from the US where she is playing on a study bursary, the short ceremony took place shortly after the 1-1 draw CECAFA game between Uganda and Tanzania, was conducted by FUFA and CECAFA female officials as Nalukenge teammates, coaches and fans at Njeru cheered on.
Celebrations at NjeruUganda U-17 Girls team head coach Ayub Khalifa hugs Juliet NalukengeThe CECAFA medical team pose with Nalukenge
Nalukenge was voted for her outstanding performance for Kawempe Moslem in the women top-flight league in Uganda and the East Africa Secondary Schools games where she led Kawempe to the title in Dar es Salaam.
She also finished top scorer in the COSAFA U-17 girls event in Mauritius, where she captained the team and finished top scorer.
Nalukenge in her car with the accoladeThe joy of celebrating with Nalukenge
Tanzania Girls U-17 team delayed the title celebrations for Uganda at the ongoing CECAFA U-17 Championship at FUFA Technical Center Njeru, after holding the hosts to a 1-1 draw in the third game of match day four on Sunday Evening.
The two high riding sides faced off in what was seemingly a final for table leaders Uganda before a fair crowd, a game that would seal the title for the hosts if they picked maximum points.
Juliet Nalukenge takes on a Tanzanian opponent during match day four of the CECAFA U17 Girls Championship at Njeru
However, it was the Tanzanians that took the lead through reliable striker Aisha Khamis Masaka, who took advantage of a laxity between Kevin Nakacwa and Stella Musibika, to slot in through Daphine Nyayenga legs on 18 minutes.
The Ugandans and their cheering fans thought they had won a penalty, when center referee Caroline Wanjara pointed to the spot after spotting Tanzanian midfielder Thabea Aidano Munga for having handled in the area but reversed her decision.
But it took a few minutes before Uganda equalized, this time, Wanjara awarding a penalty for handball by the same Munga, following a corner kick by Uganda that dropped in the area that forced the Tanzanians to struggle clearing it leading into the handball.
FUFA Airtel awards female player of the year runner up Fauzia Najjemba made no mistake, easily beating Tanzanian custodian Asha Mrisho Ismail for the first half to end 1-1.
Uganda returned in the second half with an intent for the winner, but was only denied twice by the woodwork, first with reigning FUFA female player of the year Juliet Nalukenge shot coming off the crossbar and Shakila Nyinagahirwa also seeing her effort bouncing off the 90, with the Tanzanian keeper already beaten.
Uganda was missing right full-back Samalie Nakacwa due to sickness, and head Coach Ayub Khalifa blamed the draw on this
“We were missing our first choice defender and that destabilized our defense, but we prayed to our best not to lose today. We have a final and crucial game on Tuesday and we shall get back and plan on how we can win this game because it’s only the win that will give us the title,” Ayub said.
Uganda U17 TeamTanzania U-17 Team
However, it was not on the good side with the Tanzanian coach Bakari Shime, who blamed the draw on poor officiating.
“We are not satisfied with the officiating today, because the referee was biased and gave away a penalty, but we are not out, and we shall play till the end of the event,” Shime said.
A reasonable number of fans watched the Uganda – Tanzania U-17 girls match at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
The draw left Uganda top on 10 points with Tanzania second on 8 points, and with Tanzania playing goalless and 37 goal deficit Djibouti, Uganda in a must win contest against Kenya on Tuesday if the home team is to win the title as the championship climaxes on Tuesday.
Uganda U-17 Girls Technical TeamTanzania U-17 Girls Technical team members and some of the substitute players
*Both Matches at Star Times Stadium, Lugogo, Kampala
Entry Fees: 10,000 (Ordinary), 30,000 (VVIP)
The two semi-final matches of the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup Tournament will be played at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo on Tuesday, 17th December.
The earlier kick off will witness Kenya against Eritrea at 1 PM. Hosts Uganda will then take on Tanzania.
The finals shall be played on Thursday, 19th December 2019 (venue will be confirmed).
Kenya is the reigning champion of the annual tournament.
CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup 2019 – Final Group A Games
Eritrea 0-0 Somalia
Uganda 4-1 Djibouti
Uganda Cranes completed the CECAFA 2019 Senior Challenge Cup group stages unbeaten following a comprehensive 4-1 victory against Djibouti on Sunday at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo.
KCCA midfielder Muzamiru Mutyaba opened the scoring with a well taken kick from the penalty spot in the 14th minute.
Three second half goals from winger Joackim Ojera as well as two second half substitutes Ben Ocen and Bright Anukani crowned the day for the tournament hosts.
Haroun Mohamed scored the consolation for Djibouti.
Mutyaba’s penalty arrived after a handball in the forbidden area by the Djibouti defender after Paul Mbowa’s cross from the left on 13 minutes.
Ojera doubled the lead after 65 minutes when he finished Abdul Watambala’s through ball.
Abdul Karim Watambala passes the ball. He assisted the second goal for Uganda with a great pass to Ojera.
Haroun gave Djibouti some hope with a goal pulled back in the 69 minutes.
Ocen, who had replaced Ojera converted substitute Allan Okello’s assist in the 75th minute.
Another substitute, Anukani put the game beyond Djibouti’s reach with the fourth goal via his first touch on the ball moments after replacing Nicholas Kasozi.
Newly crowned Airtel – FUFA Footballer of the year Allan Okello takes on the oppositionBright Anukani joined by teammates to celebrate Uganda Cranes goalRight back Paul Willa in action against Djibouti. He had a decent evening at office
Uganda Cranes registered their fourth successive victory at the annual championship following three earlier wins against Burundi (3-1), Somalia (2-0) and Eritrea (2-0).
This implies that Uganda Cranes top group A with 12 points and will face the group B second placed team (Tanzania).
The earlier result on Sunday witnessed a goal-less draw between Somalia and Eritrea. Eritrea finished second in group A and will battle group B leaders, Kenya during Tuesday’s semi-final.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Djibouti
Uganda Cranes XI: Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Paul Willa, Musitafa Mujuzi, John Revita, Paul Mbowa, Nicolas Kasozi (79′ Bright Aukani), Muzamiru Mutyaba, Karim Watambala, Joachim Ojera (66′ Ben Ocen), Joel Madondo, Viane Sekajugo (75′ Allan Okello)
Subs Not Used: Charles Lukwago (GK), Halid Lwaliwa, Mustafa Kizza, Shafiq Kagimu, Bright Anukani, Fahad Bayo, Steven Mukwala
Johnathan McKinstry, Uganda Cranes head coach
Head Coach: Johnathan McKinstry (Northern Ireland)
Assistant Coach 1: Abdalah Mubiru
Assistant Coach 2: Livingstone Mbabazi
Goalkeepers’ Coach: Fred Kajoba
Team Doctor: Emmanuel Nakabago
Djibouti XI
Djibouti XI: Innocent Mbonihaukoye (G.K), Haroun Mohamed, Hassan Moussa, Fouad Moussa, Abdoulkader Djama, Mohamed Bourhan (Captain), Ali Youssouf, Mahdi Houssein, Hamza Abdi, Siad Yabe, Hassan Warsama
Subs: Mohamed Fouad, Kassim Abdourahman, Abdi Nasradin (G.K), Ahmed Youssouf, Ali Adeleh (G.K), Fahmo Moussa, Mohamed Salem, Saleh Bourhan
Head coach: Efrem Haile Alemseghed (Eritrea)
Assistant coach: Elias Ali Abubeker
Goalkeepers’ coach: Zewengel Embaye Haile
Team physio: Teklu Tsegai Bahlibi
Official: Mussa Salih
L-R: Shaffi Abokar, Johnthan McKinstry (middle) and Efrem Haile Alemseghedm during the post match press conference
Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry has released his starting XI that will play the last Group A match against Djibouti in the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo this Sunday at 4:00pm.
Defenders John Revita and Paul Willa returned to the starting list after being rested in the previous game against Eritrea. Paul Mbowa is placed in the left-back to replace Mustafa Kizza who is rested for this match while Musitafa Mujuzi joins the central defense to partner with Revita.
Youngster Karim Watambala makes a come back in the first eleven together with Nicolas Kasozi and Muzamiru Mutyaba.
Busoga United forward Joel Madondo will lead the striking line alongside Viane Sekaajugo and Joachim Ojera on the left and right flanks respectively.
Midfielders Allan Okello, Bright Anukani, Shafiq Kagimu and striker Fahad Bayo who started in the first two games are rested plus KCCA FC goalkeeper Charles Lukwago.
The game will start at exactly 4:00pm EAT at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI
Joel Mutakubwa (GK, Kyetume FC), Paul Willa (Vipers SC), Musitafa Mujuzi (Proline FC), John Revita (KCCA FC), Paul Mbowa (URA FC), Nicolas Kasozi (KCCA FC), Muzamiru Mutyaba (KCCA FC), Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Joachim Ojera (URA FC), Joel Madondo (Busoga United), Viane Sekajugo (Wakiso Giants),
Subs;
Charles Lukwago (GK) (KCCA FC), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC), Mustafa Kizza (KCCA FC), Shafiq Kagimu (URA FC), Bright Anukani (Proline FC), Allan Okello (KCCA FC), Fahad Bayo (Vipers SC), Ben Ocen (Police FC), Steven Mukwala (Maroons FC)
Allan Okello and Juliet Nalukenge were crowned as the best Airtel Male and Female respective most valuable players of the year, 2019 during a glamorous awards night held at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
Both players were rewarded by Shs 1M, trophy, medal and drove home with a car each.
Okello, a KCCA FC and Uganda Cranes player was recognized for the outstanding performance during the year that witnessed his club win the 13th StarTimes Uganda Premier League title, beating teammate Mustafa Kizza and Proline’s Bright Anukani.
Allan Okello poses infront of his car at Speke Resort Munyonyo
Okello was also part of the Uganda Cranes team that qualified for the 2020 CHAN finals in Cameroon, scoring crucial goals and making odd assists.
Nalukenge, a forward at Kawempe Muslim Women Football Club was rewarded for the great display in the year where she was top scorer at the 2019 COSAFA U-17 championship in Mauritius, also guiding Uganda to the trophy in the aforementioned tournament.
Juliet Nalukenge smiles besides her car
She was also the top scorer at the 2019 CECAFA Women Senior Challenge Cup in Tanzania where Uganda finished third for the second successive year.
The guest of honour, Janet Kataha Museveni was represented by Prof. Mondo Kagonyera who handled the top performers their rewards, flanked by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry, Airtel Uganda MD VG Somasekhar among others.
‘We are pleased to have partnered with FUFA. Tonight we shall recognize personalities who play a core role in the game of football. Airtel will continue to support football in Uganda for the years to come’ Airtel Uganda Managing Director VG Somasekhar said.
A section of Acholi Province fans at the Pece War Memorial Stadium during the 2019 FUFA Drum semi-finals against Bugisu
Other winners:
Acholi Province fans were recognized as the the best fans’ group.
FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha hands over an accolade to beach soccer player Sulaiman Ochero
The Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) took home the Airtel – FUFA Member Association of the Year.
Egyptian based Uganda Cranes striker Abdul Lumala was named the Airtel – FUFA Fans Favourite Foreign based player of the Year.
Abdul Lumala (middle) was named the fans favorite foreign based player of the yearGavin Kizito Mugweri gets his award as best up-coming talent
Uganda U-20 captain and SC Villa defender Gavin Kizito Mugeri was the best Airtel – FUFA Upcoming Talent of the Year.
The FUFA Presidential Award went to former Uganda Cranes captain Magid Musisi (Rest in Peace).
Some of the Uganda Cranes 1978 Legends with their award. On the right is FUFA President, Eng. Moses MagogoKCCA CEO Anisha Muhoozi hands over the accolade to Kawempe Muslim women club head coach Ayub Khalifa. Khalifa is also the Uganda U-17 Girls team head coach and second assistant coach of the Uganda Crested Cranes team
Airtel – FUFA Best Squad (Team) Award was won by the indomitable Team of 1978, the losing finalists at the AFCON that year in Ghana.
The Airtel – FUFA Women Football Coach of the Year was Ayub Khalifa as Shafiq Bisaso took the Airtel – FUFA Male Football Coach of the Year.
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club took the fair-play award, received by the club chairman James Kizza.
Some of the female players on the women team best XI. Each was rewarded with a medal and Shs 1MBest Male XI
The Airtel Male Best XI had Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Paul Willa, Mustafa Kizza, John Revita, Halid Lwaliwa, Allan Kayiwa, Allan Okello, Shafiq Kagimu, Viane Ssekajugo, Mike Mutyaba and Bright Anukani.
Meanwhile, the Airtel Female best XI had Daisy Nakazkiro (GK) Naziz Florence, Nankya Shadia, Marion Amangat, Viola Namuddu, Rita Nabbosa, Phiona Nabbumba, Fauzia Najjemba, Mauren Kinavudori, Juliet Nalukenge and Hasifa Nassuna.
The FUFA Nantameggwa Winner for the Quiz on 102.1 FUFA f.m was Henry Lubulwa.
‘We are celebrating excellence of the football players. The Airtel – FUFA awards date as far back as 2013 when I had just become FUFA President. That time, the whole country was lost of hope, we had tried so many times to qualify for AFCON and failed. We thank Airtel and other sponsors with whom we have come a long way. We thank the Government of Uganda for the financial support. This success you are seeing today is not accidental. This year 2019, we have entered all competitions available. Today, FUFA runs 600 concurrent activities. It is very important we celebrate the footballers. It is also important that we provide the conducive environment to work in. We need good facilities. Government should address the issue of facilities and the out-dated sports law as old as 1964‘ Said FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo.
‘Awards celebrate talents and achievements. Football is perhaps the most important sport in the world. To the footballer, the Airtel FUFA Awards should encourage you and you do even better. The various winners should be role models. Avoid distractive behaviors. I thank FUFA for the idea of awards and I thank the sponsors led by Airtel Uganda for considering to support the awards. I salute players and coaches‘ noted the First Lady and Minister of Education & Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, the chief guest whose speech was read by Prof. Mondo Kagonyera.
‘We are here to recognize the main actors of the game; players, coaches, administrators and fans. In a special way, we appreciate Airtel Uganda and all the other partners who have sponsored these awards’ Rogers Byamukama, chairman awards local organizing committee.
The awards theme was “Celebrating Uganda’s Finest Footballers”.
All Winners:
Airtel Male Footballer of the Year: Allan Okello
Airtel Female Footballer of the Year: Juliet Nalukenge
Airtel – FUFA Fans Team of the year: Acholi Province
Airtel – FUFA Beach Soccer Player of the Year: Sulaiman Ochero
Airtel – FUFA Member Association of the Year: Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA)
Airtel – FUFA Fans Favourite Foreign based player of the Year: Abdul Lumala
Airtel – FUFA Upcoming Talent of the Year: Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa & Uganda U-20)
Airtel – FUFA Best Squad (Team): Team of 1978
Airtel – FUFA Fair Play Award: Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club
Airtel – FUFA Women Football Coach of the Year: Ayub Khalifa
Airtel – FUFA Male Football Coach of the Year: Shafiq Bisaso (Former Proline Head Coach)
Airtel – Male Best XI: Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Paul Willa, Mustafa Kizza, John Revita, Halid Lwaliwa, Allan Kayiwa, Allan Okello, Shafiq Kagimu, Viane Ssekajugo, Mike Mutyaba, Bright Anukani
At Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala (Live on 102.1 FUFA fm, BBS Telefaina and All Official FUFA social media platforms)
The long awaited moment for the 2019 Airtel – FUFA Awards is here as football personalities (footballers, coaches, administrators and fans) will be rewarded during a glamorous event at Speke Resort in Munyonyo.
Unlike the other years, this time round, 14 categories of awards that will be recognized, an increment from last year’s 9.
The five new categories Airtel – FUFA Best XI for female, Airtel – FUFA Women football coach of the year, best squad (Club/National Team) of a particular Year, FUFA Member Associations’ Award and the Team Fans of the Year (for all FUFA Competitions like the Star Times Uganda Premier League, Star Times FUFA Big League, FUFA Women Elite League, FUFA Drum and the like).
Since the launch of the fifth edition of these awards on 16th October 2019, the build up has been promising.
For the fifth year in a row, Airtel Uganda are the main sponsors of the awards with a financial kitty of Shs 100M.
Other partners include; Ecobank Uganda Limited, NIC Holdings Limited, Nile Breweries Limited, Pepsi and BIDCO Uganda Limited.
Full List of the 2019 Airtel FUFA Awards Categories:
1 – Airtel – FUFA Male Player of the Year 2019
2 – Airtel – FUFA Female Player of the Year 2019
3 – Airtel – FUFA Best XI 2019 (Men)
4 – Airtel – FUFA Best XI 2019 (Women) – New
5 – Airtel – FUFA Coach of the Year 2019
6 – Airtel – FUFA Women Football Coach of the Year – New
7 – FUFA Presidential Award
8 – Airtel – FUFA Fair Play Award 2019 (UPL)
9 – Airtel – FUFA Upcoming Talent Award 2019 (FJL)
10 – Airtel – FUFA Beach Soccer Player of the Year
11 – Airtel – FUFA Fans’ Favorite Uganda foreign based Player
12 – Best Squad (Club/National Team) of a particular Year – New
13 – FUFA Member Associations’ Award – New
14 – Team Fans of the Year (FUFA Competitions) – New
Nominees:
Nominees for Airtel FUFA Male Player of the Year 2019
Allan Okello (KCCA)
Bright Anukani (Proline)
Mustafa Kizza (KCCA)
Nominees for Airtel – FUFA Female player of the Year, 2019
Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim)
Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Hasifah Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals)
Nominees for Airtel FUFA Team Fans of the Year 2019
Uganda Girls U-17 girls football team produced arguably one of their best football displays so far at the ongoing CECAFA U-17 girls tournament, with a 10-0 demolition of stubborn Eritrea side in the third game of the match day three on Friday evening.
Eritrea, who had resisted favorites Tanzania serge only to lose 5-0 in their opening game and stepped their game against Kenya whom they held 1-1, had come into the Uganda game with high spirits to keep their passing and pressing game.
However, smart Uganda went all out on the first whistle with lively runs and attacks from wingers Margret Kunihira and Catherine Nagadya, which left the Eritrean full back on a very busy work to contain them in vein.
Uganda U17 girls celebrate one of their 10 goals
And it took only five minutes for Fauzia Najjemba to put Uganda ahead with a well taken chipped ball off a Nagadya cross that gave the Eritrean goalie Rim Redje no chance.
That was the beginning of the route to the wallop, that by half time, the Eritreans were nothing but down by 5-0, with a Juliet Nalukenge double, Margret Kunihira and Catherine Nagadya all on the score sheet.
The Ugandan side got good balance in the midfield, commanded by Kevin Nakacwa and attacking midfielder Shakira Nyinagahirwa, with Sumaya Komuntale and Samalie Nakacwa, who was later stretchered off, manning well the left and right flanks, while Stella Musibika and Bira Nadunga were un breakable in the heart of defence.
Its no wonder the fine passing and movement enabled Kevin Nakacwa to register herself on the scoring sheet with Musibika and Komuntale also scoring, before Nalukenge completed her hat trick with a penalty after she was fouled in the area.
“Our main target in this championship is to win the title, that’s why we come prepared in every game. We watched Eritrea give hard time to favourites Kenya and we planned to play better than them and that’s what we did,” Said Uganda Coach Ayub Khalifa.
His Eritrean counterpart Mekonnen Zewde accepted defeat though he said they have not given up on doing better in the remaining games.
“Uganda was better physically, mentally and technically than us, we couldn’t match them, this was too much for us. But we are going to prepare for the next games,” Zewde said.
Uganda stands out as the highest scoring team in the six team championship, having scored 25 goals and yet to concede in three outings.
Team Uganda remained top of the table with maximum points from three games, followed by Tanzania, who today moved to 7 points after a 3-1 win over Kenya, while Kenya remains in third on 4 points, but with a better goal difference over Burundi, who also moved to 4 points following their 8-0 win over Djibouti.
Uganda will get closer to smelling the title, if they beat Tanzania in the second last match on Sunday, where Kenya will take on Eritrea and Burundi faces Djibouti.
Eritrea and Somalia both won their respective games in group A to keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup in Uganda.
Eritrea easily out-muscled Djobuti 3-0 in the first game that kicked off at 1:30 PM at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo on Friday.
Ali Suleman Ibrahim netted two goals for Eritrea before Isayas Abreham Goytom found the other.
Omar Abdulahi scored the only goal in Somalia’s 1-0 win against Burundi in the subsequent game at the same venue.
Now, Eritrea has six points, three short of the hosts Uganda. Somalia registered their first win, that takes them to four points.
Burundi suffered their fourth defeat of the campaign.
Either of Eritrea or Somalia can qualify for the semi-final to join already qualified Uganda Cranes.
On Sunday, Eritrea will face off against Somalia with the day’s winner joining Uganda to the semi-finals.
Uganda seeks to top group A with a only a draw or an outright victory against already eliminated Djibouti.
CECAFA U17 Girls Championship: Friday, 13th December 2019
Uganda U-17 Vs Eritrea
At FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru (4 PM)
Uganda national Girls U-17 football team head coach Ayub Khalifa has made no changes in his side’s starting lineup against Eritrea in the team’s third CECAFA U-17 game at FUFA TC Njeru on Friday evening.
Khalifa has instead maintained the starting 11 players that saw off Djibouti 11-0 in second game of the ongoing event on Wednesday.
Uganda Martyrs goal keeper Daphine Nyayenga retains her position with Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim) and Sumaya Komuntale (King of Kings) also remaining on the right and left full back positions respectively while Kawempe Moslem’s Stella Musibika and Olira Girls Bira Nadunga also start in the center of defense.
Uganda Martyrs Kevin Nakacwa and Kawempe Moslme’s Shakira Nyinagahirwa retain their positions in the holding and attaching midfield respectively, while another pair of Uganda Martyrs Catherin Nagadya and Kawempe’s Margret Kunihira are on the right and left wings respectively.
Captain Juliet Nalukenge and her assistant and Hat Trick heroine against Djibouti, Fauzia Najjemba will pair upfront.
Today’s fixture has Djibouti and Burundi having faced off in the first game, with Kenya and Tanzania battling each other in the second game while the Uganda Vs Eritrea game is on at 4 pm.
Uganda leads the six team table with maximum points from two games, followed by Kenya who have a better goal difference over third placed Tanzania but both have 4 points, while Burundi and Eritrea are fourth and fifth with 1 point each with Djibouti, who have lost both their opening matches and conceded 25 goals, coming last with no points.
Uganda starting line up against Djibouti. Uganda won 11-0 in the game. It is the same line up that will face Eritrea.
Uganda’s Line up against Eritrea: Daphine Nyayenga (GK), Stella Musibika, Bira Namaganda, Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Kevin Nakacwa, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Catherine Nagadya, Margret Kunihira, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba
Subs:Joan Namusisi, Gift Nasasira, Patricia Akiror, Gillian Akadinda, Moureen Nangozi, Hadijah Nandago, Zainah Nandede and Zaitun Namaganda.
FUFA CEO Mr. Edgar Watson and his Deputy Mr. Sam Bakiika are in South Africa at the Nelson Mandel University-Port Elizabeth attending the FIFA Executive Programme for African General Secretaries and Top FIFA Forward Staff.
The duo is undergoing the two more modules in areas of strategic planning and project management (module 3), marketing and sponsorship (module 4.
On 31 October, FIFA and the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES), in collaboration with the Nelson Mandela University (NMU), launched a Football Executive Programme for African General Secretaries and top FIFA Forward staff members in Port Elizabeth.
FUFA Deputy CEO Sam Bakiika
This was the first time a capacity building programme was organised by FIFA and its partners for English-speaking Member Associations (MAS) in the region. Both Watson and Bakiika attended the opening two modules that highlighting the latest and most innovative best practices and research in football organisation, including sessions focused on organisation of world Football, administration and finance. Through the Football Executive Programme, FIFA and CIES aim to professionalise and harmonise the MAs top level management in Africa by addressing local needs and providing practical outputs.
Time for more football education: FUFA CEO Edgar Watson taking notes during the session
‘It is a good session where we are learning a lot and how to manage football in Africa and especially back in my country. Bakiika and I have picked a lot in terms of football knowledge which will improve on our systems at the secretariat and other structures’ said FUFA CEO Edgar Watson.
L-R FUFA CEO Edgar Watson with FIFA Regional Project Coordinator Abigail Hailemichael (Addis Ababa), FIFA Regional Office Development Project Coordinator for Southern Africa Christine Gama and FUFA Deputy CEO Sam Bakiika in South Africa for the FIFA Executive Programme.
With the help of such interactive and oriented programmes, FIFA and CIES are striving to keep fostering football development worldwide according to the specific needs of all MAs on the ground, focusing on their progress towards more professionalisation as well as long-lasting and impactful football development.
In both courses, each participant will have to take part in all the different modules in order to obtain an official certificate once the programme is completed.
FUFA has a vision of becoming the number one football Nation in Africa both on and off the pitch.
Group Photo-Participants including Edgar Watson and Sam Bakiika plus Instructors of the FIFA Executive Programme in South Africa.
MAIN PHOTO: L-R Cape Verde FA General Secretary Dan Merkel , FUFA Deputy CEO Sam Bakiika , Florie Ramogodi Programme Officer (Botswana Football Association), FUFA CEO Edgar Watson and Ethiopia FA General Secretary Eyasu Merhatsidk Gebreegziabher at the FIFA Executive Programme in South Africa
Uganda national U-17 girls football team went top of the CECAFA U17 Girls table after beating Djibouti 11-0 in the third game of matchday 2 at FUFA Technical Center Njeru on Wednesday evening.
Uganda Girls U17 forward Margret Kunihira races past Djibouti opponents
Fausia Najjemba won herself the match ball, after scoring a hat-trick 2nd, 29th, and 31st minutes. Skipper Juliet Nalukenge scored a brace in the 9th and 45th minutes, defender Stella Musibika also pulled off a double in the 4th and 85th minutes.
Uganda Girls U17 player Zainah Nandede in action against Djibouti
Second-half substitute Hadijah Nandago register a third brace of the day in the 55th and 69th minutes while Margret Kunihira and Samalie Nakacwa scored one each.
“We had a mission of scoring goals, but we could not accomplish it because of the technical approach of our opponents. The other title hopefuls Tanzania and Kenya have dropped points, but that does not mean we should relax in the next games,” Uganda head coach Ayub Khalifa said after the match.
Djibouti head coach Moussa Fatouma, said her team has improved since they are here for learning not winning.
“We conceded 14 goals in the first game, we have conceded 11 in the second, this shows we have improved and we can improve the more in the next games. Our major purpose here is to learn not to win the title,” Moussa said.
Uganda takes on Eritrea in the matchday 3 on Friday, while Kenya and Tanzania face off in a mouthwatering encounter, with Djibouti and Eritrea each wanting to register their first win each in the tournament when they face off.
Uganda’s Line up against Djibouti
Daphine Nyayenga (GK), Stella Musibika, Bira Namaganda, Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Kevin Nakacwa, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Catherine Nagadya, Margret Kunihira, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba
Subs-Joan Namusisi, Gift Nasasira, Patricia Akiror, Gillian Akadinda, Moureen Nangozi, Hadijah Nandago, Zainah Nandede and Zaitun Namaganda
Djibouti line up
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Girls U17 forward Fauzia Najjemba controlling the ball during the match against Djibouti
Uganda Cranes qualified for the semifinals of the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup after successfully winning a third Group A match against Eritrea at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo on Wednesday evening.
Midfielder Nicolas Kasozi got the lead for Uganda Cranes in the 58th minute with a long shot that beaten Eritrea goalkeeper Kibrom Solomun from 30 yards.
Cranes midfielder Nicolas Kasozi and Muzamiru Mutyaba challenging Eritrea player Robel Teklemicheal
Mustafa Kizza doubled the lead 10 minutes to time from the spot-kick after Micheal Habte intercepted Kizza’s freekick with his arm inside the area.
Second-half substitute Joachim Ojera who came in for Viane Sekajugo increased the momentum of the game through the right side. He created several chances at goal but final efforts from Joel Madondo failed to hit the target.
Uganda Cranes defender Musitafa Mujuzi driving the ball into Eritrea’s half
In the 86th minute, Kizza was released by youngster Karim Watambala with a beautiful through pass. The former made an accurate minus that found Ojera unmarked on the far right but the touch from the pacey winger went over the bar.
‘Our opponents had a smooth passing of the ball. But Football is about winning games. We did better in the second half but we seriously need to be better than today. When we made changes like we did today we expected tactically some things not to be perfect. One of our objectives was to rest a few players who did and got the results.’ Said Uganda Cranes head coach Johnathan McKinstry during the post-match press conference.
The Cranes will return to action with the last Group A match on Sunday 15th December against Djibouti
Uganda Cranes Starting XI
Joel Mutakubwa (GK) (Kyetume FC), Musitafa Mujuzi (Proline FC), Mustafa Kizza (KCCA FC), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC), Paul Mbowa (URA FC), Nicolas Kasozi (KCCA FC), Muzamiru Mutyaba (KCCA FC), Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), Ben Ocen (Police FC), ), Steven Mukwala (Maroons FC), and Viane Sekajugo (Wakiso Giants)
Subs;
Charles Lukwago (GK) (KCCA FC), Paul Willa (Vipers SC), John Revita (KCCA FC Shafiq Kagimu (URA FC), Bright Anukani (Proline FC), Allan Okello (KCCA FC), Joachim Ojera (URA FC), Fahad Bayo (Vipers SC), Joel Madondo (Busoga United)
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes striker Steven Mukwala aiming to shoot at Eritrea goal
On Wednesday, 11th December 2019, the football fraternity warmly welcomed back to office the FUFA President Eng. Moses Hassim Magogo.
FUFA Executive Committee members, Delegates, FUFA Judicial bodies, members of the secretariat, fans and the media gathered at the home of football, FUFA Headquarters in Mengo, Kampala as early as 8 AM.
A special cake was served in celebration of Eng. Moses Magogo’s returnEng. Magogo (second left) with football delegatesEng. Magogo served the guests a cake as wellFootball fan Abdallah Byaruhanga being interviewed at FUFA HouseL-R: MPs Odonga Otto, Peter Mugema Panadol, Peter Ogwang, Hamson Obua present a special gift to Eng. Moses Magogo
There was a motorcade procession from FUFA House to Skyz Hotel in Niguru where a special luncheon was held alongside a couple of speeches.
In attendance too, were special invited friends and Members of Parliament who hailed the leadership of Eng. Magogo.
The Members of Parliament who included Hon. Odonga Otto, Peter Ogwang, Peter Mugema Panadol and Hamson Obua presented a special gift to Eng. Magogo.
