FUFA Women Super League Matchday Nine Kawempe Muslim 1-3 Uganda Martyrs Lady Doves 2-1 UCU Lady Cardinals Rines SS 0-1 Kampala Queens Asubo Gafford Ladies 1-3 She Corporate Olila High School 3-1 Makerere University
Kampala Queens have by far been the best team in the FUFA Women Super League this season and their firm grip at the top tells it all.
The Queens of Soccer who have led the league from the start ensured they ended the first round on a high with victory at Rines.
Whereas the performance was not convincing, Margaret Kunihira’s 8th minute goal was enough to help Kampala Queens secure maximum points.
Victory meant they finish the first round perfect with 27 points 27 from nine games.
Uganda Martyrs could be 8 points behind the leaders but that has not stopped them from putting up a fight.
The Kiddawalime Girls were 3-1 winners against eternal rivals Kawempe Muslim on Saturday thanks to goals from Latifah Nakasi, Brenda Munyana and substitute Sumaya Nalumu.
Immaculate Nakanjjako in action against Kawempe Muslim.
Shakira Nyinagahirwa got the consolation for Kawempe in what was their first loss at home this season.
Elsewhere, Lady Doves edged UCU Lady Cardinals 2-1 in Masindi.
Dorcus Kwikiriza and Olivia Babirye were on the score sheet for the 2021 Champions while Sharon Naddunga the consolation for the University side.
In Soroti, Olila High School ended the first round with a 3-1 victory over visiting Makerere University.
Sharon Apio, Dorcus Lwalisa and Cicilia Apiding scored a goal each for the hosts while Daphine Nalubowa scored for Makerere University.
She Corporate returned to winning ways with a 3-1 win over bottom placed Asubo Gafford Ladies.
Madinah Nakaayi’s goal for Gafford was not enough to stop the Sharks who got their goals through Phiona Nabbumba, Joan Ainembabazi and Cissy Nakate.
The second round is expected to start on 6th February 2023.
There is a common adage that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. And for the Uganda Cranes, the journey to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially starts today after the launch of the Cranes Kabbo campaign.
Former Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango unveiling the campaign.
On Friday, FUFA in conjunction with Nile Breweries through its flagship brand Nile Special who are the official Beer partner of the Uganda Cranes launched the aforementioned drive aimed at garnering funds that will facilitate the National Team in achieving the dream of being at the biggest football extravaganza.
John Paul Ssemakula, the Connections Manager at Nile Special believes this is an important campaign that will see Ugandans feel proud of supporting their own at such a stage.
John Paul Ssemakula, Nile Breweries Connections Manager.
“As Nile Special we feel proud to associate with FUFA and the Uganda Cranes in bid to realize the dream of playing at the biggest stage of football. We believe this is a dream that can be achieved through collective effort and it is the reason why we are here today to launch the Cranes Kabbo campaign,” he said.
Ssemakula explained that the move will help in mobilising funds towards the Uganda Cranes as they embark on the qualification phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
John Ssemakula
“In Africa and Uganda particulary, whenever we have a cause whether happy or sad, we come together and contribute, put our hands together in a collection pot and it is for this reason that we called it the Cranes Kabbo campaign. The 2022 World Cup start this weekend but unfortunately, Uganda is not represented but we believe the next edition, four years from now is achievable and with such an intervention, the dream is a reality.” He added.
About the Cranes Kabbo Campaign
For every Nile Special bottle purchased, USH 50 will go towards supporting the campaign.
The campaign officially starts today (Friday, 18th November 2022)
During the course of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Nile Special will hold activations across several towns in Uganda.
The target is to collect at least USH 400M but this can stretch even beyond this target.
Former Uganda Cranes captain and goalkeeper Denis Onyango was named the brand ambassador of the campaign.
Denis Onyango dancing upon being unveiled as the brand ambassador of the Cranes Kabbo campaign.
Onyango believes with this support, it is easy to achieve the dream and he has hope in the current crop of players.
Denis Onyango speaking at the launch.
“I’m proud to always associate with the National Team even after my role as an active player. I feel proud to be part of this noble cause of giving a push to the Uganda Cranes in achieving the dream of qualifying to the World Cup. Nile Special was with us in qualifying to Africa Cup of Nations twice and I believe this lucky charm will continue with this new target.” He said.
Uganda Cranes Coach Milutin Sredojevic aka Micho believes with the expansion of the World Cup in 2026 from 32 to 48 teams, Uganda stands a great opportunity of qualifying.
Coach Milutin Sredojevic sharing a light moment with FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Mulindwa.
“The 2026 edition is a great opportunity for us to be at World Cup. Africa will have nine direct entries with the tenth being a playoff. I believe Uganda has the ability to be part of this number and definitely with such support from Nile Special, this dream will become a reality.” He said.
Rogers Byamukama, the FUFA Executive Committee Member who heads the Marketing and Communications Committee represented FUFA President at the launch expressed gratitude given the long term focus of the campaign.
Rogers Byamukama (R) having a chat with Denis Onyango.
“As FUFA we are proud to associate with Nile Special as a brand. Definitely, they have been with us for a long time and this campaign points to our strategy and vision of being the number footballing Nation in Africa on and off the pitch. Being at the World Cup requires big investment and this is a perfect start to realizing the 2026 FIFA World Cup Dream,” stated Byamukama.
“The campaign will spread out to the fans to take part and different interventions will be made from financial support towards players in terms of bonuses, technical support to the coaches and FUFA in terms of logistics.” He added.
FUFA Executive Committee Member, Rogers Mulindwa gave a vote of thanks on behalf of the Federation and called upon every Ugandan to embrace this cause.
L-R: FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, Coach Milutin Sredojevic and Rogers Mulindwa
“We know there are obstacles along way that we must jump in our journey to the World but we are proud that Nile Special has given us a head start. As FUFA, we are ready to make this dream a reality and we call upon every Ugandan to embrace this good cause.”
At the end of the event, several journalists won goodies from Nile Special.
Media plays a crucial role in setting the agenda of society and acting as a vehicle of informing, educating, sensitizing and entertaining the public.
Well aware of the aforementioned principles, FUFA takes initiatives to bridge the gap between sports media and the Federation.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim(Right) and USPA President Patrick Kanyomozi sharing a light moment.
It is upon this background that FUFA in conjunction with the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) organised a media engagement day on Thursday at Imperial Royale Hotel.
FUFA President Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim arrives at Imperial Royale.L-R: USPA Vice President Leone Ssenyange, UPSA President Patrick Kanyomozi, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Mulindwa singing the National Anthem.
This was the second engagement FUFA was having with sports scribes under their umbrella, the first coming in 2018.
FUFA Executive Committee Member, Apollo Ahimbisibwe speaking at the event.Former USPA President Sabitti Muwanga (L) sharing notes with FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Byamukama.FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi.FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Milindwa.
This year’s theme hinged on the role media plays in the recovery of the football industry.
USPA President Patrick Kanyomozi appreciated the interaction and believes this helps in developing the game.
USPA President Patrick Kanyomozi.USPA President and FUFA President sharing notes.
“We are delighted to have this engagement with FUFA. It is important to both institutions because we need to move on the same page. Media is a key component of the sports industry and with such interactions, I believe the game grows bigger and better,” he said.
USPA President Patrick Kanyomozi.
“It is unfortunate that we have not had this kind of engagement since the inaugural one in 2018 due to COVID-19. I believe now that the World is back to normal, these interactions will continue. It doesn’t necessarily mean we are being compromised by FUFA but rather looking for ways on how to improve the sports industry.” Kanyomozi added.
FUFA President who graced the event lauded sports journalists for a commendable job.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim speaking at the event.
“As FUFA we know the critical role that media plays in promoting football and sports in general. Therefore, such interactions are important to us. We usually meet at stadia and press conferences but we do not get enough time to discuss the pressing issues. With such an engagement, everyone is free to speak and criticize because feedback is important,” he said before adding.
“Media plays key roles including educating, sensitizing, informing and entertaining. And there is no institution that can survive without media. We believe this engagement helps to push our agenda of becoming the number one footballing nation in Africa on and off the pitch.”
Several journalists were given chance to ask questions and make contributions to the theme.
Web Dan Ssebakijje of Next Media Services called upon scribes to make positive contribution to the game.
Dan Web Ssebakijje.
“We must look at ourselves as journalists. Yes, there are lots of negative aspects but we can look at the positive side and help in creating a brand that will attract more revenues which all of us will benefit from.” He stated.
Elly Kyeyune who works with Radio One and Akaboozi FM called upon the Federation to create a conducive environment for journalists to work especially on matchdays.
Sports Journalist Elly Kyeyune.
Daily Monitor’s George Katongole called upon FUFA to streamline the Accreditation process for both league and national team matches.
George Katongole of the Daily Monitor.
The day’s events ended with a football match between USPA and FUFA played at Uganda Martyrs High School, Lubaga.
USPA General Secretary Johnson Were UPL CEO Bernard BainamaniVeteran Sports Journalist Silvano Kibuuka.Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA) Chairperson Brian Miiro NsubugaFUFA Deputy CEO-Services Humphrey Mandu.FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein.
Jinja North United FC vs Adjumani Town Council FC – Kyabazinga Stadium|2PM Live on FUFA Tv
Lugazi FC vs Soroti FC – Lugazi Stadium| 4PM
NEC FC vs Luweero United FC – Bugolobi Coffee Ground|4PM Live on FUFA Tv
Kyetume FC vs Northern Gateway FC – Nakisunga Ground |4PM
Calvary FC vs Mbarara City FC – Midigo Primary School Ground |4PM
Police FC vs Ndejje University FC – Kavumba Recreation Ground |4PM
Friday, 18th November 2022
Booma FC vs Kaaro Karungi – Masindi Stadium | 2PM Live on FUFA Tv
Kataka FC vs Kitara FC – FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru 4PM Live on FUFA Tv
Sunday, 20th November 2022
Kyetume FC vs Adjumani Town Council FC – Nakisunga Ground
Matchday Six of the FUFA Big League will see teams aiming for different ambitions. Whereas a few have had a good start to the season, some are struggling to find consistency and find the right footing.
Six fixtures are lined up this Thursday across different grounds but the biggest game of the matchday pack will be a Western derby between Booma Fc and Kaaro Karungi, coming the following day.
Kyetume FC have had a torrid start to the season, picking just one win in the four games played so far. The main target for coach David Mutono will be to arrest this poor run that see them in the drop zone.
The Slaughters take on Northern Gateway FC this Thursday before facing Adjumani Town Council three days later at the same ground and the ultimate target to garner all six points.
NEC FC had a perfect start to the season but suffered defeat at the hands of Kitara FC in their last outing and the focus is on making quick amends as they host Luweero United FC in Bugolobi.
Mbarabra City and Kitara who are still unbeaten and have set the pace at the top. The duo will hope to maintain their glide with games on the road. Leaders Kitara with 13 points visit Kataka on Friday while Mbarara City who are two points below will have a chance to go top of the log a day before if they can secure maximum points at Calvary FC.
Elswehere, Jinja North United take on Adjumani, Lugazi host Soroti while Police will be at home against Ndejje University.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim officially received the Uganda Hippos on Monday following their successful expedition at the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The team hit two birds with one stone, securing a berth to next year’s continental showpiece but as well emerging Champions of the region after defeating South Sudan 2-1 in the final on Friday.
Uganda Hippos players listening during the official function at FUFA Complex.
The contingent (players and officials) returned to the country on Saturday and FUFA organized a function on Monday to officially welcome them.
While speaking to the team, FUFA President lauded them for a job well-done but also stated this should be treated as a starting point of achieving the ultimate target of reaching the World Cup.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim speaking to the Uganda Hippos.
“It is a momentous occasion for us to be celebrating another milestone. I take this opportunity to thank the players and the coaching staff for a tremendous achievement of returning to AFCON. Our vision as FUFA is to be the number one footballing Nation in Africa on and off the field and that can be achieved by qualifying for such tournaments. We played all the way to the final at the last tournament and therefore, our target should be attaining the same or even better because that gives us the chance of qualifying to the FIFA World Cup,” he said.
L-R: Leader of Delegation Hamid Juma, Captain Isma Mugulusi and Captain Jackson Mayanja hand over the trophy to FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
The President also indicated, FUFA has been strategic at nurturing talent through several interventions such as the FUFA Juniors League that has given a platform to several players who have represented the country at different levels.
“When we started the FUFA Juniors League in 2015, we had a deliberate strategy of creating a pool of players and we are proud that most of you have come through the ranks. Majority of you have progressed from the U17 team to the U20 and some have gone all the way to play for the Senior National Team. This is the progress that we dreamed of and we believe that the future even holds more for us.” He added.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim poses with Abdu Magada who was named the best goalkeeper.
He spared time and gave a word of caution to the players, indicating success comes with different challenges.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim poses with the Hippos technical team.
“It is good that you are winners today but this is not the end of the world. This is a critical stage in a player’s career and if you do not handle yourself well now, you are likely to take the wrong path. Talent alone is not enough but you must have the passion for the game, be disciplined and work extremely hard. As you go back to your respective clubs, make sure you keep the same zeal and make sure you are part of the team come February next year.”
Team Media Officer Ronnie Lusulire poses for a photo with FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
The President on behalf of FUFA stated they will give support to the team towards preparations for the final tournament and also promised a cash Prize of five million shillings to every member of the team including players and technical staff.
“As FUFA, we promise full support to the team towards preparations for the final tournament. We want you to go and play to your best abilities and we have proved over the years that we can compete against everyone. Additionally, FUFA will extend five million shillings to every member who was part of the team in Sudan as a token of appreciation.”
FUFA Executive Committee Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe who also doubles as the Head of International Football appreciated the team for a successful expedition and assured the players of full support from the Federation.
Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (second from left) poses for a photo with FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha (extrem right) and Leader of Delegation Ahmid Juma.
“I want to first of all thank FUFA President for bearing the vision of youth football. As FUFA, we are proud of the job you did in Sudan and we hope more can be achieved. FUFA has always provided a platform for young players to show their adeptness and we commit that more support will be rendered to this team in order to achieve more success.” He said.
Coach Jackson Mayanja lauded FUFA for the opportunity and also making sure the team received the necessary support in a short time.
Coach Jackson Mayanja speaking.
“I take this opportunity to thank FUFA for the opportunity of guiding this wonderful team. I must confess that the welfare of the team was good and motivation to the team was evident. When I came to the team, I told the players that our target is to go to the World Cup and this success is just part of our journey.” He stated.
Skipper Isma Mugulusi also shared similar sentiments thanking FUFA for the support but also appreciating the technical team for guiding us in our journey at the tournament.
West Nile have an upper hand in the semi-final contest against Acholi after the former secured a 1-0 win at home on Sunday.
In the game played at Greenlight Stadium, Arua City, West Nile took advantage thanks to Ezra Bida’s second half strike.
Ezra Bids poses with the man of the match accolade.
Prior to the start to the game, the buzz around Arua City was in full gear with fans from either side showing support to their respective Provinces.
A section of Members of Parliament from Acholi watching the game.
As early as 10am, Acholi fans had flocked the streets singing praise of their players and celebrating their ancestry which is the theme of the FUFA Drum tournament.
Some of the merchandise sold outside the stadium.
The game itself was closely contested and it took substitute Bida’s magic in the 52nd minute to guide the White Rhinos to victory.
The two teams will face in the return leg on 10th December at Pece War Memorial Stadium in Gulu City.
The winner on aggregate between West Nile and Acholi will face either Lango or Tooro who face off in the other semifinal. The two face off in the first leg this weekend in the first leg.
Bunyaruguru Girls WFC and Isra Soccer Academy were the biggest winners as the 2022/23 FUFA Women Elite League got underway over the weekend.
The second division on the pyramid of Women’s Football in Uganda started with five games played across the country.
Bunyaruguru and Isra Soccer Academy were the biggest winners, defeating Luweero Giant Queens and Dymaic Jjessa SS respectively with an identical score of 3-0.
Fortunate Mutoozo bagged a brace while Shivan Ashaba added the other goal to guide Bunyaruguru to victory.
For Isra Soccer Academy, their goals came from Brenda Kwaka, Anna Namboozo and Hairat Babirye.
Elsewhere, Lango Queens overcame Acholi Queens 2-0 with Joan Adong and Lornah Ayo scoring the two goals. She Maroons won 2-0 on the road against Goldstar High School in Masanafu thanks to a brace from Lillian Kasuubo.
Ritah Kisakye scored the lone goal as Wakiso Hill WFC overcame Tooro Queens in Fort Portal.
Action will resume next weekend with matchday two games as seen below;
Saturday, 19th November 2022
Luweero Giant Queens vs Lango Queens – Kalule Playground
Wakiso Hill WFC vs Acholi Quens – Maya Playground
Dynamic Jjeza SS vs FC Tooro Queens –St. Charles Lwanga
Gyco Girls vs Isra Soccer Academy – 4th Division Playground
Kampala Queens maintained their brilliant start to the season securing their eighth successive victory as the first round of the 2022/23 FUFA Women Super League campaign reached the penultimate stage over the weekend.
In a closely contested game against Kawempe Muslim, Kampala Queens showed character to secure a 1-0 win at Kabojja thanks to Resty Nanziri penalty in the 16th minute.
The win meant Kampala Queens moved to 24 points and stretched their unbeaten run to 25 games and coincidentally, it was Kawempe Muslim that last defeated the former with the loss coming on the opening day of last season.
On Saturday, Uganda Martyrs had to come from a goal down to pick maximum points off a much improved Lady Doves side. Dorcus Kwikiriza gave the Masindi based outfit a lead the break but goals from Sumaya Nalumu aka Fresh Kid and captain Catherine Nagadya guided the home side to victory.
Uganda Martyrs remain second on the log with 16 points same as UCU Lady Cardinals who edged Olila High School in a five-goal thriller.
Ashiat Nalugwa, Sandra Kisakye and Sarah Adokorach got the goals for the University side while Olila scored through Siporosa Amoding and Docus Lwalisa.
Elsewhere, Makerere University piled more misery on bottom placed Asubo Gafford Ladies, winning 3-1 at home. Daphine Nalubowa, Josephine Ndagire and Winnie Nakanwagi were all on target for She MAK.
Rines SS played out a goalless draw at She Corporate to remain unbeaten the last two games. They secured their first win against SHE MAK last weekend.
The first round will climax next weekend before the teams go for a two and half- month break. The second round will start on 5th February 2023.
Uganda U20 Men’s Football National Team are the Champions of the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Hippos successfully defended the regional title after overcoming South Sudan in the final on Friday at Al Hilal Stadium.
Uganda had to come from a goal down to edge neighbours South Sudan in a closely contested affair.
Note should be taken that the two sides had already secured slots to the U20 Africa Cup of Nations slated for next year in Egypt but were playing the final for honours.
South Sudan that took the lead 15 minutes into the game through Felix Abishai who finished from close range.
Uganda fought back and levelled matters seven minutes later through Issa Bugembe whose ferocious strike from outside of the box found the back of the net.
The winning goal came in the second half through Wakiso Giants midfielder Titus Ssematimba.
Victory means Uganda successfully defends the CECAFA crown they won in 2020 in Tanzania.
Uganda Hippos played at U20 AFCON for the first time last year and defied odds to reach the final before losing 2-0 to eventual winners Ghana.
Abdu Magada and entire Hippos team were named best goalkeeper and Fair Play Award Winners respectively.
Kitara FC and Mbarara City FC continue to be the set pacers in the FUFA Big League and the two were once again victorious on matchday five.
Mbarara City secured a 3-1 win at home against Kataka FC on a soggy Kakyeka Stadium after a heavy downpour.
Henry Kitegenyi scored a braced before Seiri Arugamaho added the other for the Ankole Lions. The consolation for Kataka came from Latif Ssenkubuge. The win saw Mbarara City jump to second place on 11 points.
Kitara FC condemned NEC FC to their first loss of the season, winning 2-0 at Kigaaya Playground thanks to goals from Edson Agondeze and David Kasaija.
NEC FC dropped to third place on ten points and are now three behind leaders Kitara FC.
Elsewhere, Police FC overcame Kyetume FC 1-0 in Kavumba courtesy of Herman Wasswa’s penalty, Luweero United won with the same scoreline against Lugazi while Adjumani Town Council picked their first win, edging Booma FC.
Jinja United FC were 2-1 winners over Soroti City while Ndejje University played out a goalless draw at home against Calvary FC.
Uganda Hippos will tonight take on South Sudan in the final of the CECAFA U20 Zonal qualifiers at Al Hilal Stadium, Sudan.
Despite both nations sealing qualification at the final AFCON tournament in Egypt next year, they come into this encounter eager to lift the regional trophy.
The Hippos are boosted by the return of full backs Haruna Lukwago and Simon Ssemayange from COVID-19 after testing negative ahead of the final while Ibrahim Kasinde and Abasi Kyeyune are still out for the same case.
Head Coach Jackson Mayanja urged his troops to go out serious and ready to battle South Sudan so they can lift the trophy.
“We have already qualified yes but we want to wrap it up in style with victory against South Sudan and this means we have to fight hard on the pitch because we know our opponents are a strong team as well.”
Left back Ibrahim Juma believes lifting the trophy will be very motivating to the entire team and country.
“We already qualified and now our focus as a team is to lift the trophy. This is what we want now and it will motivate us and the nation at large.”
It should be noted that the Hippos are the defending champions having defeated hosts then Tanzania 4-1 in 2020.
Thursday,10th November 2022 Police FC Vs Kyetume FC – Kavumba Live on FUFA TV 2PM Kitara FC Vs NEC FC -Kigaaya PS Ndejje University Vs Calvary FC -Bombo Mbarara City FC Vs Kataka FC – Kakyeka Luweero United Vs Lugazi FC -Luweero Grounds Soroti City FC Vs Jinja North United- Soroti Stadium Adjumani Town Council Vs Booma FC- Paridi Stadium
Friday, 11th November 2022
Kaaro Karungi FC Vs Northern Gateway FC -St George Arena Live 2 PM
The FUFA Big League is back with plenty of action and thrilling encounters to look forward to on match day five.
Table leaders Kitara FC host second placed NEC FC at the Kigaaya Primary School Play Grounds in Hoima in an anticipated mouthwatering encounter .
The two teams have ten points apiece but the hosts are top of the log on a superior goal difference of nine while the visiting NEC has only four goals.
Coach Mark Twinamasiko of Kitara FC is confident that they will use home advantage plus the experience to register maximum points against their rivals.
‘In a league where games are played on a home and a way basis, you have to utilise the home advantage to collect points. We are hosting a well organized NEC FC which is on our neck on the table but we are more experienced and well prepared to collect maximum points.’ He said.
While NEC FC Tactician Charles Lukyamuzi says they are ready for the showdown, hoping to return to winning ways.
‘’We have prepared for Kitara like we do for other teams. We are not under any pressure and we shall play our usual way of creating chances and ensure that we convert them.” Lukyamuzi indicated.
In the other games Police FC host Kyetume in a televised early kick off at the Kavumba Stadium, Ndejje University who beat Kataka last week to register their first win entertain Calvary.
Mbarara City who are third on the table face wounded Kataka at Kakyeka in Mbarara, Luweero United welcome Lugazi FC, Soroti City are up against Jinja North United, Adjumani Town Council play Booma FC. On Friday, Kaaro Karungi will host Northern Gateway.
Uganda U20 Men’s National Team, The Hippos are through to the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Sudan in the semifinals of the ongoing CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.
The Hippos defied odds to overcome hosts Sudan to reach the final of the regional Championship, a result that meant returning to the continental showpiece.
Two goals from defender Rogers Torach and captain Isma Mugulusi ensured Uganda edged Sudan in the semifinal contest played on Tuesday at Kober Stadium.
It should be noted the two finalists at the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers represent the region in the final tournament.
Therefore Uganda and South Sudan who beat Ethiopia 4-2 on penalties got the two slots and will face of in the final to determine the Champion.
Uganda will play at the final tournament for the second successive time, having featured at the last edition in 2021 where they defied odds to play all the way to the final before losing to eventual winners Ghana.
Uganda Hippos return into action tonight against hosts Sudan in the semi finals at the ongoing CECAFA AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers in Sudan.
It will be the first time in the tournament that the Hippos will be playing on artificial turf at Kober stadium.
Nothing but qualification to the final AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt next year is what Uganda will be aiming at having tasted the fruits in the previous edition in Mauritania, 2021.
Against the hosts Sudan, the Hippos face a huge mountain to climb who finished top in Group A.
Interim head Coach Jackson is however positive they will do the needful to seal qualification.
“We are well of the task before us and what our target is. We are playing on artificial turf but this is not an issue because we have played on it before at home. This is an important match for us and we shall give our best.”
Skipper Isma Mugulusi expressed his delight for returning and hopes his experience here will count.
“I thank God we are in the semis, everyone knows the importance of this game and as a player I will give all I can to ensure we go through because playing at the AFCON will be another opportunity for us to market ourselves just like we did in Mauritania.”
Uganda finished runners up in group B behind Ethiopia while Sudan topped group A.
In the other semi final match, South Sudan with face off against Ethiopia.
The two finalists will represent CECAFA region at the 2023 AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt.
Saturday, 5th November 2022 Olila High School vs Uganda Martyrs Lubaga
UCU Lady Cardinals vs Makerere University
Sunday, 6th November 2022 Kawempe Muslim vs She Corporate
Rines SS WFC vs Asubo Gafford Ladies
Lady Doves vs Kampala Queens
Early leaders Kampala Queens and Uganda Martyrs will hope to keep their good run going as the 2022/23 FUFA Women Super League enters matchday seven this weekend.
The two however face stern tests on the road with Uganda Martyrs visiting Olila High School while table leaders Kampala Queens are away to Lady Doves in Masindi.
Uganda Martyrs who are second on the log with 13 points have the change to cut the gap on Kampala Queens to two points should they pick maximum points in Soroti.
Despite going five games without a win, Olila are always a tough opponent at home and Uganda Martyrs will have to be at their best to secure all three points.
Kampala Queens who are still perfect will hope to stretch their run to seven straight victories at Lady Doves.
The Masindi based brushed aside the poor start to the season and have now gone five games unbeaten.
UCU Lady Cardinals will hope to arrest the poor run that has seen them go three games without victory.
They will face Makerere University at home who are equally struggling to get their house in order.
Elsewhere, Kawempe will host She Corporate and Rines SS who picked their first win last weekend facing Asubo Gafford Ladies all the aforementioned games coming on Sunday.
Uganda Hippos will play their second and final group match at the ongoing AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers on Saturday late evening against Ethiopia at Al Hilal Stadium.
The Hippos who are already through to the semi finals following Tanzania failure to get maximum points against Ethiopia in their second match will make some few changes according to interim head coach Jackson Mayanja.
Coach Jackson Mayanja (extreme left) talking to players as the rest of the technical team look on.
“It’s our last group game and we want to get positive results to ensure we top it. We have trained well apart from skipper Mugulusi who suffered a slight knock and we shall rest him in this as well as making a few more changes.” He said in the pre match press conference.
Assistant captain Titus Ssematimba just like his coach indicates they won’t take this game for granted together with his teammates.
“We are in good mood and prepared well. We want to top the group and do to this we have to get positive results against Ethiopia without undermining them.”
Uganda beat Tanzania in their first group B encounter and will know their semi finals opponents after their encounter against Ethiopia.
The two teams that will reach the finals will represent CECAFA Region in the final U20 AFCON tournament in Egypt in 2023.
The FUFA Executive has amended Article 19 (2)(V) of the FUFA Competitions Rules (FCR) where hitherto only three (3) foreign players could be fielded in a FUFA Competition Match.
Considering that our clubs are starting to compete in group stages of CAF Inter Club competitions and yet their probable competitors use more foreign players, the Executive has amended an increase to the number of foreign players for FUFA Competitions from three (3) to five (5). This will, among others, enable our Clubs in the CAF Inter Club Competitions to use such players in FUFA Competitions as well.
In this regard the FCR Article 19 (2) (V) is hereby, with immediate effect, amended to read as follows:
“A Club shall be allowed to field a maximum of five (5) foreign players in any single FUFA Competition match. Relatedly not more than one (1) of the five (5) may be a goal keeper”
In case of any further inquiries please contact the undersigned on email admin@fufauganda.com or telephone +256 772475739/753374898.
Uganda Hippos are into the semifinals of the ongoing CECAFA, AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers in Sudan.
The confirmation follows a group B tie, between Tanzania and Ethiopia on Wednesday at Al Hilal Stadium which ended 2-2.
The result meant that Tanzania who completed their group games now have 1 point, same as Ethiopia who still have a game left against Uganda that will come on Saturday 05th at Al Hilal Stadium.
Tanzania only hope to make it to the semi finals lie in Uganda as they will be hoping for a win in favour of the Hippos against Ethiopia of more than two goals without scoring any.
In the semi finals, Hippos could face hosts Sudan, South Sudan or Burundi depending on who will qualify from group A.
Two nations that will reach the finals will represent CECAFA region at the 2023 U20 AFCON tournament in Egypt next year.
