FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: Latest News

  • Nabulime: Our target for CECAFA U-18 Women’s tourney remains the same despite disruptions

    Nabulime: Our target for CECAFA U-18 Women’s tourney remains the same despite disruptions

    Uganda U18 Women’s National Team midfielder Phiona Nabulime has indicated the team still harbours the same targets despite the changes in the tournament dates and hosts.

    It should be noted that the CECFA U18 Women’s Championship was supposed to be hosted by Kenya early this month. However, there were challenges and the event had to be rescheduled.

    Recently, CECAFA confirmed the Championship will be staged in Tanzania between 25th July – 7th August 2023.

    Nabulime was appointed the new captain following the tight schedule of Kampala Queens trio Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Hadijah Nandago and Catherine Nagadya.

    Phiona Nabulime (second from right) in training.

    The lanky midfielder is confident the team is still focused and the target of winning the Championship remains.

    ‘I am honored to be named captain of the team and I thank the coaches for the trust. I believe we are still focused as a group despite the changes that have happened. For the two days we have been in camp, the spirits are high and we are ready to do well’ said Nabulime.

    Asked if she is ready to embrace the leadership responsibility bestowed on her shoulders, the midfielder who plies her trade for Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC welcomed her new status.

    ‘I know it’s always tough to be a leader because you must be exemplary but I am ready for the responsibility handed to me. I believe with the help of my teammates we shall make our Country proud.’ noted Nabulime.

    Nabulime will be assisted by goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu Who features for FUFA Women Super League side Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga.

    The team handled by Head coach Ayub Khalifan is currently in residential camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi from where they will travel to Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

    Squad in Camp
    Goalkeepers
    Nansamba Bridget (Rhines SS WFC/Rhines SS), Nakiirya Lillian (St. Noa Ss WFC/St Noah SS)
    Kaidu Sharon (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/ Uganda Martyrs High school Lubaga), Kamuli Cecilia (Tooro Quuens/Kings of Kings),

    Defenders
    Nanyanzi Nakato Patricia (Rines SS WFC/Rines SS),Namirimu Faridah (Wakiso Hills WFC/Wakiso Hill SS),Nakimera Sharifah (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS),Nabulobi Patience (Kla. Quuens/Caltec Academy) Katusiime Charity (Tagy HS WFC/Tagy High school) Nandhengo Rebecca (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/ Uganda Martys HS Lubaga) Natooro Desire Katisi (She Kataka FC/Amus College School)

    Midfielders
    Nayiga Patricia (Wakiso Hill WFC/Wakiso Hill SS) Namutebi Krusum (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Nabulime Phiona (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Nabukenya Agnes (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Kisakye Dorcus (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS), Tamisi Shafiga (She Kataka FC/Amus College)

    Forwards
    Nassazi Allen (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Najjuma Shamsa (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martys High School Lubaga), Munyana Brenda (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga) Nalumu Sumaiyah (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martyrs HS Lubaga) Naigaga Kamiyati (Taggy HS WFC/Taggy HS)

  • FUFA Juniors League: Fixtures, dates for National Championship Confirmed

    FUFA Juniors League: Fixtures, dates for National Championship Confirmed

    The fixtures and dates for the 2022/23 FUFA Juniors League (U17) National championship have been confirmed.

    The six-day tournament will get underway on 23rd July 2023 and run up to the 28th of July 2023 at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru.

    The five teams that emerged winners in their respective regions will report to Njeru on 23rd July and also undergo screening on the same day.

    The FUFA Juniors League National championship will be the climax of this year’s Regional Leagues that is happening for the first time since the change in format.

    Five regions out of eight that is Kampala, Eastern, Western, Buganda and Kitara organised the Juniors League (U17) in this edition and the winners will play at Njeru in a round robin format with each set to play four games during the five match days.

    Vipers SC JT, Prosper Soccer Academy, Bul FC JT, Mbarara Soccer Academy and Friends of Soccer Academy emerged winners in the Buganda, Kampala, Eastern, Western and Kitara regions respectively.

    The team with most points collected from the four games will be crowned National champions.

    Full Programme at The FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

    23rd July 2023

    Reporting of teams and Screening of players

    24th July 2023

    Vipers SC JT vs Mbarara Soccer Academy – 2:00pm
    Prosper Soccer Academy vs Friends of Soccer Academy – 4:30pm

    25th July 2023

    Vipers SC JT vs Friends of Soccer Academy – 2:00pm
    Mbarara Soccer Academy vs Bul FC JT – 4:30pm

    26th July 2023

    Mbarara Soccer Academy vs Friends of Soccer Academy – 2:00pm
    Bul FC JT vs Prosper Soccer Academy – 4:30pm

    27th July 2023

    Mbarara Soccer Academy vs Prosper Soccer Academy – 2:00pm
    Bul FC JT vs Vipers SC JT – 4:30pm

    28th July 2023/ Crowning Ceremony

    Bul FC JT vs Friends of Soccer Academy – 2:00pm

    Prosper Soccer Academy vs Vipers SC JT – 4:00pm

  • CECAFA U18 championship back with new venue, dates set, Uganda U18 Women’s Squad revealed ahead of residential camp

    CECAFA U18 championship back with new venue, dates set, Uganda U18 Women’s Squad revealed ahead of residential camp

    The Uganda U18 Women National Team will enter residential camp tomorrow, Tuesday 18th July 2023, at the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisasi, in preparations ahead of the U-18 CECAFA Women Championship scheduled for 25th July – 8th August 2023 in Dar es Salam, Tanzania.

    This follows a change in the host nation that was initially Kenya.

    It should be noted that FUFA called off camp following uncertainty of the scheduled CECAFA U18 Women tournament that the team was preparing for and had been in camp since June 12, 2023 in preparation for the tournament.

    25 players have been summoned by head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi from which he will choose the final squad for the tournament in Dar Es Salam, Tanzania.

    The 25 Uganda U18 women squad to enter camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi.

    Goalkeepers
    Nansamba Bridget (Rhines SS WFC/Rhines SS), Nakiirya Lillian (St. Noa Ss WFC/St Noah SS)
    Kaidu Sharon (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/ Uganda Martyrs High school Lubaga), Kamuli Cecilia (Tooro Quuens/Kings of Kings),

    Defenders
    Nanyanzi Nakato Patricia (Rines SS WFC/Rines SS),Namirimu Faridah (Wakiso Hills WFC/Wakiso Hill SS),Nakimera Sharifah (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS),Nabulobi Patience (Kla. Quuens/Caltec Academy) Katusiime Charity (Tagy HS WFC/Tagy High school) Nandhengo Rebecca (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/ Uganda Martys HS Lubaga) Natooro Desire Katisi (She Kataka FC/Amus College School)

    Midfielders
    Nayiga Patricia (Wakiso Hill WFC/Wakiso Hill SS) Namutebi Krusum (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Nabulime Phiona (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Nabukenya Agnes (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Kisakye Dorcus (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Shakira Nyinagahirwa (Kampala Queens/Kawempe Muslim SS) Tamisi Shafiga (She Kataka FC/Amus College) Hadija Nandago (Kampala Quuens/ Kawempe Muslim SS)

    Forwards
    Nassazi Allen (Kawempe Muslim LFC/Kawempe Muslim SS) Najjuma Shamsa (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martys High School Lubaga) Nagadya Catherine (Kampala Quuens/St. Noah SS) Munyana Brenda (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga) Nalumu Sumaiyah (Uganda Martyrs HSL WFC/Uganda Martyrs HS Lubaga) Naigaga Kamiyati (Taggy HS WFC/Taggy HS)

    Team Officials

    Ayub Khalifah Kiyingi (Head coach)
    Mubarak Kiberu (Assistant Coach)
    Ayobo Felix (Fitness Coach)
    Kibatalindwa Mable (Team Doctor)
    Kyasiimire Darlian (Physiotherapist)
    Nalwadda Prossy (Equipment Manager)
    Aminah Namutebi (Media Officer)
    Namusisi Joan (Team Manager)

  • Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers: Crested Cranes edge Rwanda to storm second round

    Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers: Crested Cranes edge Rwanda to storm second round

    Uganda Women’s National Team, the Crested Cranes secured a hard fought win over Rwanda to storm the second round of the 2024 Paris Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers.

    The team needed a goal in extra time to win 1-0 at Kigali Pele Stadium on Sunday and thus advance to the next round 4-3 on aggregate.

    It should be noted that the first leg played on Wednesday last week ended 3-3.

    Despite the numerous chances created throughout the game, Uganda could not find the breakthrough.

    Sandra Nabweteme, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa and Fauzia Najjemba all got chances to fire Uganda into the lead but did not utilize the attempts at different intervals.

    Assistant coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi made two changes from the team that played the first leg with goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro and Shamirah Nalugya replacing captain Ruth Aturo and Margret Kunihira respectively.

    The first attempt at goal fell to Nabweteme in the 8th minute but the Rwandese goalkeeper was quick off her line to deny the former.

    Najjemba too had her attempt from close range parried away by the goalkeeper.

    At the start of the second half, the coach introduced Fazila Ikwaput in place of Hasifah Nassuna. There were further changes with Catherine Nagadya and Hadijah Nandago introduced in places of Nalugya and Nyinagahirwa.

    In the 10th minute of extra time, Ikwaput fired Uganda into the lead with a low drive into the bottom left corner.

    The win means Uganda advances to the second qualification round where they face Cameroon in October.

    Uganda’s Starting XI
    Daisy Nakaziro (GK), Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Aisha Nantongo, Shadia Nankya, Joan Nabirye, Shamirah Nalugya, Hasifah Nassuna (C), Sandra Nabweteme, Fauzia Najjemba, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa

  • FUFA Drum 2023: Winning start for Lango, Acholi as group stage gets underway

    FUFA Drum 2023: Winning start for Lango, Acholi as group stage gets underway

    Lango Province and Acholi Province got off winning starts as the 2023 FUFA Drum group stages got underway on Saturday.

    At Rukungiri stadium, hosts Kigezi succumbed to a 0-1 loss to last edition’s finalists Lango in the first encounter of Group B. Norman Odipio’s 9th minute strike gifted Lango the vital victory on the road to go top of the group.

    Odipio went on to scoop the Man of the match accolade after the tie.

    At Boma grounds in Kitgum, son of the land Tito Okello’s 19th minute strike is all that Acholi needed to tame a resilient Teso Province side to go top of Group A that also has Ankole Province.

    Tito Okello was named Man of the match and took home an accolade and UGX 100,000/=.

    Action continues on Sunday with two games on the card that will see Bugisu Province entertain Busoga Province in the Eastern Derby at Mbale stadium while Inaugural winners Buganda welcomes Bunyoro Province at Kavumba Recreation center.

    This Edition’s tournament is proudly Sponsored by MTN, Nile Special and Rock Boom.

  • 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Uganda Cranes pooled in Group G

    2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Uganda Cranes pooled in Group G

    Uganda Cranes have been pitted in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Africa in the draws conducted on Thursday on the sidelines of the 45th CAF Congress in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

    Uganda was placed in Pot 3 prior to the draws and the lots made by former Nigerian midfielder Jay Jay Okocha confirmed the Group where the Cranes will play as G.

    The same group has Algeria who coincidentally are Uganda’s opponents in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.

    The other teams in the same Group include Guinea, Mozambique, Botswana and Somalia.

    It should be noted that a total of 54 countries have been drawn into nine groups, each composed of six teams.

    The winner of each group will directly qualify to the World Cup, while the four best group runners-up will participate in play-offs to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup will see participation of teams increase from the current 32 to 48 which also consequently leads the increase in number of teams from CAF (Africa) from 5 to 9 or possibly 10 depending on the outcome of the intercontinental playoffs.

  • The FUFA Drum: West Nile, a Province like no other

    The FUFA Drum: West Nile, a Province like no other

    At the inception of the inter-provincial football tournament known as the FUFA Drum in 2018, West-Nile Province became one of the pioneer sixteen provinces to compete in the then FUFA’s newest competition which was launched by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim as another platform to provide football stakeholders to celebrate their ancestry.

    Yet for reigning champions West Nile, the tournament does not just stop at providing a platform for celebrating their ancestry but also their diversity as a region.

    Sam Rwothomio, an ardent football fan who resides in Nebbi town says the tournament goes beyond just providing for the province an opportunity to celebrate their ancestry.

    “West Nile has so many tribes with different cultural settings, so for us, the FUFA drum isn’t just about celebrating our ancestry as a people but also about celebrating our diversity that we have embraced from a long time ago.” — Sam Rwothomio

    The province boasts of tribes such as Madi, Alur, Kakwa, Lugbara, Kebu, Aringa, and Nubi among others and this according to Mike Letti, the team manager of West Nile Province, provides an opportunity for the players to learn from one another the different cultural practices when they get together adding that West Nile is the only province that ”speaks English” in the dressing room.

    “Our cultural diversity gives the boys opportunity to learn from one another the different cultural practices from across the region, and also given the large pool of players we have, it enhances competition in the team as players don’t only want to represent the province but also their tribes in the squad” — Mike Letti

    West Nile province, unlike other provinces that have chosen other wild animals to represent their heritage, chose the white rhino, the most social of all rhino species as their symbol.

    In the 1960s, the British took a number of the white rhino species from West Nile to South Africa and according to the Prime Minister of Lugbara Kari Rt. Hon. Ismail Tuku, they failed to reproduce and they have since been brought back to Uganda.

    Ariga Rasoul, the chairperson of the province and an executive member of FUFA says the choice of the white rhino as the symbol for the province was meant to, among other things, portray the social nature of the West Nile people.

    “We chose the White Rhino as our symbol to portray the social nature of the people of West Nile. We also wanted an animal that would represent the whole region given our tribal diversity.” — Ariga Rasoul

    During the first edition, West Nile finished as runner-up after losing to Buganda Province (2-1) on aggregate in the final that was played over two legs before triumphing in the 2022-2023 edition; defeating Lango Province 3-2 on aggregate.

    The white rhinos go into this year’s edition as one of the favourites along with former winners Buganda and Acholi having been drawn in Group C; alongside Bugisu and the winner between Karamoja and Busoga; with the latter favourites after thrashing the former 4-1 in the first leg of their preliminary qualifying match.

  • Thirty-three Elite Coaches Complete UEFA Goalkeeping Course at FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

    Thirty-three Elite Coaches Complete UEFA Goalkeeping Course at FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

    The course which started on Monday 9th July, climaxed on Wednesday 12th July 2023 with the awarding of certificates of completion to the participants.

    UEFA goalkeeping instructor Miroslav Hyll from Slovakia was the facilitator, and he took the coaches through practical and theory sessions during the three days of the training.

    Ronnie Kalema, the FUFA executive secretary for football development and a member of the FUFA executive committee and Rogers Byamukama graced the closing ceremony.

    Ronnie Kalema enlightened the coaches about FUFA strategies and operations, and elaborated the importance of body in the area of football development.

    List of participants

    1. Mukasa Robert
    2. Mugisha Ibrahim
    3. Oloya Moses
    4. Ssenyonjo Yusuf
    5. Bbale David
    6. Tezigwa Kenrogers
    7. Kansole Richard
    8. Kaweesa Eddie
    9. Magada Keneth
    10. Sebaggala Swaibu
    11. Kimera Ali
    12. Dhaira Bright
    13. Sempagi Harrison
    14. Ben Kalama Lwanga
    15. Magala James
    16. Muwonge Hamza
    17. Muwada Byuma
    18. Kanene Faisal
    19. Damba Jamil
    20. John Billy Lukoda
    21. Ssebaggala Kisitu Frank
    22. Nakiguba Cissy Gaudensia
    23. Kawooya Sowedi
    24. Sadiq Wassa
    25. Adeke Juliet
    26. Okello Sam Bill
    27. Okeny Bonniface Kongo
    28. Issa Hassan Yusuf
    29. Kiggundu Stephen Billy
    30. Kato Alfred
    31. Kajoba Fred
    32. Ssali Samuel
    33. Ntambi Ivan

    Gallery

  • Women’s Olympic Qualifiers: Uganda, Rwanda share spoils

    Women’s Olympic Qualifiers: Uganda, Rwanda share spoils

    2024 Tokyo Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers

    First Round, First Leg
    Uganda 3-3 Rwanda

    Uganda and Rwanda played out a thrilling three-all draw on Wednesday as the two sides faced off in the first leg of the first round of the 2024 Paris Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers.

    In the game played at Kigali Pele Stadium, neither settle could secure maximum points, leaving the fate of the contest for the return leg.

    Assistant coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi made two changes from the team that started against Tanzania in a friendly game last week.

    Margaret Kunihira and Joan Nabirye started ahead of Catherine Nagadya and Shamirah Nalugya respectively.

    Uganda made an impressive start and should have taken the lead as early as the sixth minute but Fauzia Najjemba failed to find the target left with just the goalkeeper.

    It was Rwanda that broke the deadlock through Mukahirwa, capitalizing from a goal melee in the 33rd minute.

    Shakirah Nyinagahirwa levelled matters at the stroke of halftime off a well taken ferocious strike that sent fans from either side cheering.

    The first change for Uganda came just after recess with Kunihira paving way for Nalugya.

    Five minutes into the second half, Najjemba was fouled inside the area and Hasifah Nassuna took the responsibility to slot home two minutes later.

    In the 66th minute, Rwanda equalized through Libelle Nibagwira’s free kick.

    There were further changes for Uganda with Fazila Ikwaput and Nagadya coming on in places of Nassuna and Sandra Nabweteme respectively.

    Ikwaput helped Uganda regain the lead in the 84 minute, finishing off from a well laid cross by Samalie Nakacwa.

    However, the lead was short lived with Rwanda once again finding the equalizer two minutes later through Usanasi Zawadi.

    The two teams will face off on Sunday with the winner on aggregate facing Cameroon at the second qualifying round.

    Uganda’s Starting XI
    Ruth Aturo, Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Aisha Nantongo, Shadia Nankya, Joan Nabirye, Margaret Kunihira, Hasifah Nassuna, Sandra Nabweteme, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Fauzia Najjemba

  • FUFA Tv Cup: 31 players selected for further technical guidance

    FUFA Tv Cup: 31 players selected for further technical guidance

    The Inaugural FUFA Tv Cup climaxed last weekend on Saturday 8th July 2023 with St Mary’s College Kisubi emerging winners following their 2-1 win over Kiira College Butiki at Muteesa ll Stadium Wankulukuku.

    With 8 traditional schools taking part in the tournament that ran close to a month and identifying the best performers as one of the goals, FUFA put two ambassadors/Scouts in icons Tony Mawejje and Hassan Wasswa to do the job.

    • FUFA Tv Cup Ambassadors Tony Mawejje and Hassan Wasswa

    A total of 31 players comprising from all the 8 participating Schools have been scouted by the tournament ambassadors and will undergo further guidance as the FUFA Excom member and tournament chairman Dr Apollo Ahimbisibwe states.

    “The Federation put in place two ambassadors who have been doing the scouting for us and these are celebrated football icons in the land, Hassan Wasswa and Tony Mawejje who have done a tremendous job. We have found the best players in all 8 participating traditional schools that we shall put together, find them probably active games they can play in as well as summoning them on the youth teams and we have trust that these boys can be the future stars courtesy of FUFA Tv cup.”

    Hassan Wasswa likewise believes the selected players have potential and will make the nation proud in the near future.

    “The Tournament went well and players were selected on merit basing on their performance, positions and how they manage themselves on the pitch. We shall have training with them to further guide them as we prepare for a couple of friendly matches. I believe this crop of players we selected are a great add-up to the national team in the near future if they continue to do what they do best in school and on the field. They are tremendous and have the talent.”

    He said before adding.

    “It was a great opportunity for us to be ambassadors of the tournament and it gave us great mileage and hopefully we can keep doing this and continue searching for more players for the country especially in traditional schools that are known most for Academics.”

    Winners SMACK and Mengo Senior School have the most number of players selected (6 each)

    • Mengo Senior School Starting XI at the opening game

    Leading scorer Gift Fred Mutalya, MVP Ernest Olukor

    • Top Scorer Gift Fred Mutalya
    • MVP Ernest Olukor

    The selected players

    Per school

  • UEFA Elite Goalkeeping Course Kicks Off in Njeru

    UEFA Elite Goalkeeping Course Kicks Off in Njeru

    The three-day UEFA goalkeeping coaching course started on Monday 10th July 2023 at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.

    A total of thirty three (33) goalkeeping coaches, including two women are taking part in the high profile course which will run until Wednesday 12th July.

    During their stay in Njeru, the coaches will undergo theory and practical sessions, and they will learn alot from topics such as; goalkeeper in modern football, role of the goalkeeper coach in modern football, defensive actions of the goalkeeper, offensive actions of the goalkeeper, physical preparations of the goalkeeper, training preparations and training based on the game situation.

    UEFA goalkeeping instructor – Miroslav Hyll from Slovakia has been trusted to facilitate the training.

    Samuel Mpiima – the director of governance and administration at FUFA graced the opening function of the course on Monday.

    List of participants

    Robert Mukasa, Ibrahim Mugisha, Moses Oloya, Yusuf Ssenyonjo, David Bbale, Ken Rogers Tezigwa, Richard Kansole, Eddie Kawesa, Kenneth Magada, Swaibu Sebaggala, Ali Kimera, Bright Dhaira, Harrison Sempagi, Ben Kalama Lwanga, James Magala, Hamza Muwonge, Byuma Muwada, Faisal Kanene, Jamil Damba, John Billy Lukoda, Frank Kisitu Ssebagala, Cissy Nakiguba Gaudensia, Sowedi Kawooya, Sadiq Wassa, Juliet Adeke, Sam Bill Okello, Boniface Kongo Okeny, Issa Hassan Yusuf, Stephen Billy Kiggundu, Alfred Kato, Fred Kajoba, Samuel Ssali, Ivan Ntambi.

  • FUFA Tv Cup Final: Mwesigwa Griffin strikes late to inspire SMACK to maiden trophy

    FUFA Tv Cup Final: Mwesigwa Griffin strikes late to inspire SMACK to maiden trophy

    St Mary’s College Kisubi made history today July 8, 2023, as they became the first school to win the FUFA Tv cup trophy.

    St Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) made history as they became the first school to win the FUFA Tv cup trophy.

    SMACK came from a goal down to defeat a resilient Kiira College Butiki side 2-1 on Saturday at Muteesa ll Stadium Wankulukuku.

    Both coaches assembled their strong sides with SMACK’s Ronald Malcolm Mugalu-naming his inspirational custodian Darren Aine, skipper Mahad Mubiru, Clovis Paul Griffin Mwesigwa and Jimmy Ambayo in the starting XI while his counterpart Fred Lumu Lujja included goal machine Gift Fred Mutalya and Eminai Ernest Kenneth.

    • Kiira College Butiki Starting Xi
    • St. Mary’s College Kisubi Starting XI

    Both sides seemed conservative in the first 30 minutes of the match as the tie looked cagey.

    Usual suspect Gift Fred Mutalya then rose to the occasion as he opened up the score with a calm finish inside the opponent’s box past SMACK goalkeeper Aine to send Butiki fans in crazy celebrations.

    Bukiti’s lead lasted for only two minutes as Jimmy Ambayo levelled matters after cleverly flashing past two defenders inside the box before slotting past custodian Mutabazi Kenneth for the equaliser on 41 minutes.

    Half time ended one all.

    Both sides looked cautious in the second half as they kept discipline at the backline.

    As the game was destined for spot kicks, Mwesigwa Griffin had other ideas as he won it late in the 90th minute after receiving a through ball from the midfield to cleverly run past Mutabazi and scored from a tight angle to guide his side to the historic win. There was a mix-up of the Butiki goalkeeper and his backline.

    • FUFA Tv Cup Ambassadors Tony Mawejje and Hassan Wasswa

    With two minutes added into the tie, Mutalya had a chance to level but was closed down by the SMACK defence.

    SMACK became the first team to win the FUFA Tv Cup that has been played for close to a month.

    Kiira College Butiki’s Olukol Ernest was named MVP while Gift Fred Mutalya finished top scorer with 8 goals.

    • Top Scorer Gift Fred Mutalya receives his award from FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee Chairman Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo
    • Eminai Ernest Olukol receives the MVP Award from FUFA Tv Cup ambassador Tony Mawejje

    SMACK custodian Darren Aine was named Goalkeeper of the tournament as he conceded only two goals throughout while Makerere College School scooped the Fair Play Award.

    • Aine Darren (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) receives the Golden Glove from FUFA Tv Cup Organising Committee Member Justine Nambafu
    • Fair Play Team award was received by FUFA CEO Edgar Watson. An OB of Mengo Senior School.

    The winners SMACK were also handed a dummy cheque worth three million shillings.

    • SMACK captain Mahad Mubiru receives dummy cheque from FUFA Tv Cup organising committee chairperson Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe

    Kiira College Butiki will receive two million Uganda Shillings.

    The FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye was the Chief Guest. He represented the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Magogo.

    Mugoye was accompanied by FUFA Tv Cup Chairman Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, Executive Member Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson.

    Members of the FUFA Tv Cup organising Committee were also in attendance.

    The tournament also witnessed a total of 36 goals scored.

    Above: Kiira College Butiki Headteacher Moses Ssemwanga

    Pictorial

  • Crested Cranes travelling squad to Rwanda

    Crested Cranes travelling squad to Rwanda

    Crested Cranes assistant coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi has named the team that travelled to Rwanda on Saturday morning for the 2024 Paris Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers.

    The team is composed of 23 players that will face the She Amavubi in the first round Qualifiers.

    The first leg will be played on 12th July at Kigali Pele Stadium with the return leg coming four days later.

    The team departed Cranes Paradise Hotel today morning and were welcomed at the Katuna border by Rwanda officials before continuing with the journey to Kigali.

    Joan Nabirye who plays at FK Minsk in Belarus will connect with the team in Kigali while Phiona Nabbumba from Denmark’s B93 is ruled out due to an injury and will not make the trip to Rwanda.

    Uganda had a friendly game against Tanzania on Friday, winning the game 3-1 at MTN-Omondi Stadium.

    Full Travelling Squad

    Goalkeepers
    Ruth Aturo, Daisy Nakaziro, Daphine Nyayenga

    Defenders
    Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Shadia Nankya, Asia Nakibuuka, Aisha Nantongo, Bridget Nabisaalu, Jolly Kobusinge

    Midfielders
    Joan Nabirye, Shamirah Nalugya, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Hadijah Nandago, Hasifah Nassuna, Rhoda Nanziri

    Forwards
    Fauzia Najjemba, Sandra Nabweteme, Catherine Nagadya, Fazila Ikwaput, Joan Ainembabazi, Anitah Namata, Margaret Kunihira

    Officials
    Leader of Delegation – Chris Kalibbala

    Issa Magoola Kakaire – Chairman IMOC

    Assistant Coach – Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi

    Goalkeeping Coach – Mubarak Kiberu

    Fitness Coach – Felix Ayobo

    Team Doctor – Mable Kabatalindwa

    Team Physiotherapist – Darlian Kyasiimire

    Team Coordinator – Joan Namusisi

    National Teams Officer/ Advance Party – Paul Mukatabala

    Equipment Manager – Prossy Nalwadda

    Media Officer – Aminah Babirye

    FUFA Delegate – Muzamil Bondo ( West Nile)

    FUFA Delegate – Zaitun Mutesi (Eastern Region)

    FUFA Events- Phoebe Kutamba

    FUFA Tv – Abdul Salam Kigozi

    FUFA Tv – Fred Ssewankambo

  • FUFA Tv Cup Final: It’s Butiki vs Kisubi as Tacticians speak out ahead of epic clash

    FUFA Tv Cup Final: It’s Butiki vs Kisubi as Tacticians speak out ahead of epic clash

    With a few hours to the highly anticipated inaugural FUFA Tv cup epic finale between St Mary’s College Kisubi and Kiira College Butiki at Muteesa ll Stadium Wankulukuku tomorrow, the mood, tension and vibe from either camp is getting intense.

    From olds boys, students, administrators, players and coaches of the two sides, they all can’t wait for the historic encounter.

    Ahead of the tie both coaches of either sides set the stage during the official Pre-Match Press conference on Friday morning at FUFA House.

    Ronald Malcolm Mugalu – Head Coach, St. Mary’s College Kisubi

    ‘First of all I thank FUFA Tv for putting up this initiative of the traditional schools. We have really been lagging behind as far as football is concerned and looking forward to seeing other editions. I also thank the school administration for all the support under the leadership of Brother Simon Mpanga.”

    He said in his opening remarks before adding.

    “We are prepared and any team that comes to the final is ready and that’s the same here. We know we are facing a tricky team that has a good striking force including the current leading scorer much as we also have a good defence line but we are aware and set to track them down so that we can bring the trophy home’ He added.

    Asked about how the passionate Butiki fans would impact on the match, Mugalu continued.

    “We are not playing the crowd, we are playing football and I always tell this to my boys so we are aware it’s a neutral ground and we shall also have fans.”

    His counterpart Fred Lumu Lujja the head coach of Kiira College Butiki is unfazed but optimistic about making history as the first coach to guide Butiki to the FUFA Tv title triumph.

    “I thank God, the school administration, the participating teams and old boys of the school who have stood with us since day one. Going into the final, we are ready because after our last game in Mengo we immediately continued with preparations and corrected our mistakes. We are facing a team with the best defence but we also have the best forward line and I have talked to the boys to be careful about conceding early as it has been before and I can say we are going to attack from minute one to see that we get early goals.”

    Match Preview

    To storm the final, Kiira College Butiki came from behind to defeat the hosts Mengo Senior School 1-3 in the semi final return to qualify 8-4 on aggregate.

    On the other hand, Kisubi outclassed the home side Jinja College in the return leg as they defeated them 0-2 to complete a double thus sailing through to the final on 1-4 aggregate.

    Following the semi finals, at total of 33 goals have been netted with Kiira College Butiki’s Gift Fred Mutalya the leading scorer with 7 goals while Kisubi have conceded only one goal.

    Kisubi have Scored a total of 7 goals goals and conceded once while their opponents netted 11 times and conceded 5.

    Road to the final.

    St Mary’s College Kisubi

    Group stage

    SMACK 2-0 King’s College Budo

    King’s College Budo 0-1 SMACK

    Semi final

    SMACK 2-1 Jinja College School

    Jinja College School 0-2 SMACK

    Kiira College Butiki

    Group stage

    Kiira College Butiki 2-1 Namilyango College

    Namilyango College 0-1 Kiira College Butiki

    Semi final

    Kiira College Butiki 5-3 Mengo Senior School

    Mengo Senior School 1-3 Kiira College Butiki.

    • International Friendly: Crested Cranes show grit in comeback victory over Tanzania

      International Friendly: Crested Cranes show grit in comeback victory over Tanzania

      Uganda Senior Women’s National Team, the Crested Cranes put up a spirited performance to edge Tanzania in an international friendly game played on Friday at MTN-Omondi Stadium.

      The team needed to come from a goal down to overcome the Twiga Stars who had opened the scores as early as the second minute.

      Oppa Clement had gave the visitors an early lead, heading past goalkeeper Ruth Aturo from close range.

      However, goals from Catherine Nagadya, Fauzia Najjemba and substitute Margret Kunihira ensured Uganda earned victory.

      Nagadya was one of the four players that assistant coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi handed debuts.

      Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Hadijah Nandago and Samalie Nakacwa all promoted from the U20 team were playing their first competitive game for the senior national team.

      Despite going down early, the Crested Cranes remained calm and composed, dominating proceedings with relative ease.

      There were chances for Najjemba and Sandra Nabweteme at different intervals but the two couldn’t find the target.

      It was Nagadya who levelled matters in the 31st minute with a neat finish from close range.

      Najjemba started the attack on the left wing, beating her opponent for pace before laying a cutting back cross for onrushing Nagadya who did no mistake but slot home.

      At the start of the second stanza, coach Khalifa made changes, bringing on goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro for Aturo.

      Nandago replaced Nagadya while Kunihira and Fazila Ikwaput came on later in places of Hasifah Nassuna and Nabweteme respectively.

      With four minutes to play, Najjemba fired Uganda into the lead,capitalizing on a mistake by Tanzania’s goalkeeper Husnat Ubamba.

      Nakacwa’s cross was headed for goal and in a bid to push the ball over, Ubamba instead pushed it onto the cross bar only for it to land into the path of Najjemba who was waiting.

      Uganda put the game beyond reach through Kunihira whose intended cross went straight into the back of the net to send the fans into celebrations.

      Uganda used the friendly game as part of preparations for the forthcoming Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers.

      The Crested Cranes will host Rwanda on 12th July at Kigali Pele Stadium before a return leg six days later.

      The winner on aggregate will take on Cameroon at the next qualification round.

      The team will travel to Rwanda on Saturday morning.

      Crested Cranes Starting XI
      Ruth Aturo, Samalie Nakacwa, Sumaya Komuntale, Shadia Nankya, Aisha Nantongo, Shamirah Nalugya, Shakirah Nyinagahirwa, Hasifah Nassuna, Sandra Nabweteme, Fauzia Najjemba, Catherine Nagadya

    • The Big interview: Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, chairman FUFA Tv Cup organizing committee

      The Big interview: Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, chairman FUFA Tv Cup organizing committee

      The Inaugural FUFA Tv Cup tournament is one game away from it’s climax as the highly anticipated finale between St Mary’s College Kisubi and Kiira College Butiiki takes stage on Saturday 8th July 2023 at Muteesa II stadium, Wankulukuku.

      The idea that was generated from a dream by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim finally came to reality as the newly born baby finally kicked off three weeks ago with alot of positives to pick from all the 8 participating traditional schools.

      From promising footballers to potential media personalities, the chairman organising committee of the tournament and FUFA EXCO Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe in an interview with FUFA Communications Department believes they have ticked most of the boxes and it can only get better going forward.

      FUFA Tv Cup Organizing Committee Chairperson Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe.

      FUFA COMM: How was the FUFA Tv cup idea generated?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: The Federation is mandated to protect, develop and to promote the game and in it’s wisdom it wanted to address the gap of developing the game and when your developing you can’t do so unless you have competitions so this was to address the gap the we had seen in the schools tournament where some were not participating in the national footballing tournaments around and these are mostly schools that are excellent in academics and traditional that had put much of their focus on other games such as rugby, basketball, etc so the Federation under Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim thought wise to come up with such a tournament so that these schools could play against each other and anyone who has been following this tournament can testify.

      FUFA COMM: What is your general assessment and take about the tournament?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: First of all, it was a dream by the federation to start such a tournament and in the projection we thought that there are good players in these schools. If you have been following you have seen that there are outstanding players in the tournament. I believe if more traditional schools took part we would get more players and I believe that has been achieved in the first edition.

      FUFA COMM: Do you feel the purpose and agenda of putting up this tournament has been achieved?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: When the tournament was starting, the federation had goals that we wanted to achieve and one of the goals was let these students and schools play football which we have seen and it’s exciting, we have trained coaches, the games masters have been trained as coaches, we have trained media officers and if you have been following, you can tell. The other dream was to identify players and we can only get better going forward.

      FUFA COMM: What is your general perspective about the performance of the 8 participating traditional schools in the inaugural tournament?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: Those that are more technical than me probably saw other things but as chairman, I believe if a boy is bright in school then he should make a bright footballer because some of these things you must be able to grasp what the coaches are telling you and a person that can grasp hard concepts that have velocity, momentum and are bright in class. I believe this will help them as well football wise and you can see this when playing. Their intelligence is top notch and I believe excellence in academics can lead to excellence in sports.

      FUFA COMM: A number of traditional schools feel they were left out in the inaugural tournament, should we expect the number to increase from 8 in the next editions and what could be the criteria for entrace?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: The truth is many schools wanted to participate and have approached us but the first thing we are going to do is to evaluate the tournament with the committee and see what we have done right and wrong and see a way forward. But I am certain it is going to get bigger and better. We shall involve more traditional schools that are also excelling in academics.

      FUFA COMM: What is at stake in terms of prizes to the participating schools?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: First of all we thank FUFA Tv for the sponsorship, teams were given home and away jerseys, equipment like balls, education to coaches, media officers which was all met by FUFA. The winning team will be given a trophy and medals plus silver medals to runners up. We also have cash prizes but this will be given to schools in stationary, scholastic materials to improve on the excellence in academics as well as rewarding all individuals that have excelled, certificates to all participants schools, players and coaches.

      FUFA COMM: After the climax of the tournament, what next for the top performing players?

      Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe: The Federation put in place two ambassadors who have been doing the scouting for us and these are celebrated football stars, Hassan Wasswa and Tonny Mawejje who have done a good job. We are finding the best players that we can put together, find them probably active games they can play in as well as summoning them to the Junior National teams.

      A total of 33 goals have been scored so far with Kiira College Butiki’s Gift Fred Mutalya leading the scoring chart on 7 goals.

      FUFA Tv Cup Organizing Committee

      Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo – Chairman
      Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah (Mengo Senior School) – Vice Chairman
      Mr. Kiwanuka Roberts – Member
      Mr. Ayub Khalifa – Member
      Ms. Nambafu Justine – Member
      Mr. Balinaine John Moses (Jinja College) – Member
      Mr. Mugalu Ronald Malcom (St. Mary’s College Kisubi) – Member
      Mr. Nyonyintono David – FUFA Secretariat (Competitions Officer)

    • Crested Cranes learn 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations pathway

      Crested Cranes learn 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations pathway

      Uganda’s Senior Women National Team, the Crested Cranes have learnt the teams they will face in their pursuit to qualify for next year’s TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

      In the draws conducted on Thursday at CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, the Crested Cranes were pitted against Algeria at the first qualification round.

      The winner between Uganda and Algeria will then face either Burundi or Ethiopia at the second and final qualification round.

      The first round will be played between 18th -26th November 2023 with Uganda hosting the first leg while the second round games will be played between November 27th – 5th December.

      It should be noted that Uganda played at the last WAFCON edition held in Morocco last year.

      This was the second time that the Women’s National team played at this stage, the maiden appearance coming in 2000.

      To qualify for the 2022 edition, Uganda defeated Ethiopia at the first round before earning a walkover at the second round against Kenya who were serving a FIFA ban.

    • Preview: Crested Cranes vs Twiga Stars international friendly game

      Preview: Crested Cranes vs Twiga Stars international friendly game

      Uganda and Tanzania Women National Teams will face off this Friday at MTN-Omondi Stadium in an international friendly game.

      Both the Crested Cranes and Twiga Stars are preparing for their respective Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers.

      On Thursday, coaches and captains from either team addressed the media at FUFA Complex ahead of tomorrow’s game and below are the quotes;

      Crested Cranes

      Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi – Assistant Coach

      “We are ready for this game and fully aware of how important it is in our preparations. Having a game of such magnitude against a very good team definitely helps us to know where we stand and what we need to improve before facing Rwanda.”

      “Tanzania has always been a tough opponent for us over the years and Iam sure they will give us a good test.”

      On playing two games against Rwanda in Rwanda…….

      “It is a situation we find ourselves in as a country but does not mean we should not prepare. We shall go into both games with the same spirit in order to attain our target of progressing to the next round.”

      On the progress of training so far……

      “We have been in camp since Thursday last week and the preparations are going according to schedule. The first target was to get players into shape since majority were coming from off season. There has been improvement in their fitness levels and we hope more can be achieved in the remaining games.”

      Ruth Aturo – Crested Cranes captain

      “As players, we are ready for the game against Tanzania tomorrow. This is definitely a good chance for us to play a friendly game before facing Rwanda because it helps us to know where to improve.”

      “Tanzania is a good team with talented players. We have faced them in CECAFA and other engagements and I know we will have a good game.”

      Tanzania

      Bakari Shime- Twiga Stars Head coach

      “We are happy to be in Uganda and most importantly to play against the Crested Cranes. We believe this is a great test as we prepare for our upcoming games. Congo who we were supposed to play against in the Olympic Qualifiers withdrew but that doesn’t mean we should not prepare. We thought the game against Uganda will be a good test as we shift focus to the second qualification round.”

      Enekia Kasonga Lunyamila- Twiga Stars captain

      “Games between Uganda and Tanzania have never been easy over the years. And that is what we expect tomorrow. We know Uganda is a good team but we are ready to face them and hope for the best results.”

      Uganda will host Rwanda in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers on 12th July at Kigali Pele Stadium before the two teams face off five days later.

      The winner on aggregate will face Cameroon at the second qualification round.