Uganda Hippos (U20) interim head coach Jackson Mayanja has appointed captains ahead of the AFCON Zonal Qualifiers that will take place in Sudan between 28th October to 11th November.
After day 8 morning session at the Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, the Uganda Cranes legend appointed attacking midfielder Isma Mugulusi as the team captain.
New captain Isma Mugulusi (L) and coach Jackson Mayanja.
Mugulusi will be assisted by Wakiso Giants FC midfielder Titus Ssematimba, Ibrahim Juma and goalkeeper Abdu Magada respectively.
Coach Jackson (L), Titus Ssematimba, Ibrahim Juma and Abdu Magada share a light moment.
The development means, the now Greece based player takes over Gavin Kizito who led the team to the AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers previously in Tanzania before storming the final tournament in Mauritania.
Kizito has since graduated to the U23 (Kobs) as well as the senior Team, Uganda Cranes.
Gavin Kizito receiving the Fair Play Award at the 2020 U20 AFCON.
The Hippos are expected to fly out next Wednesday to Sudan in a bid to return to the AFCON U20 tournament next year.
The Uganda Beach Soccer National Team safely touched base in Mozambique ahead of the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.
Sand Cranes players disembarking of a plane.
The Sand Cranes who left the country on Tuesday night reached Mozambique the following day.
Sand Cranes pose for a photo with FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim (holding the ball) shortly before leaving for Mozambique
Upon arrival at Vilankulo International Airport, the contingent was treated to great reception including a cultural dance that saw some of the players and officials take part.
Baker Lukooya (middle) dancing with a local troupe upon arrival in Mozambique.
The 5th edition of the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations will take place in Vilankuko from Friday, 21 October to 28 October.
The Sand Cranes are currently accommodated at Archipelago Resort.
The team under the tutorship of Swiss coach Angelo Schrinzi are pooled in group B alongside defending Champions Senegal, Egypt and Madagascar.
This is the Uganda’s second appearance at the continental showpiece. In the previous edition held in Senegal, Uganda reached the semifinals on their debut.
FUFA Big League Matchday Two Thursday 20th, October 2022 Kickoff: 4 PM
NEC Vs Police – Bugolobi Coffee Ground
Karo Karungi Vs Soroti City – St Goerge, Ibanda
Northern Gateway Vs Luweero United – UTC Stadium, Lira
Booma Vs Kitara – Masindi Stadium
Jinja North United Vs Mbarara City – Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe
Lugazi FC Vs Ndejje Universty FC – Lugazi Stadium
Kataka FC Vs Calvary- FUTA Technical Centre, Njeru (Live on FUFA TV)
The FUFA Big League returns this Thursday with seven encounters on card. The biggest game of matchday two is the Bunyoro Derby between Masindi based Booma FC and Hoima based Kitara FC.
The game has already gathered hype around it and what is now left is for it to live up to the billing.
Booma who are new in the FUFA Big League had a false start last week, losing 3-1 to Mbarara City FC.
Kitara FC on the other hand humbled Northern Gateway 4-0 to go top of the FUFA Big League table after matchday one.
Fred Alinaitwe who is the coach of Booma FC believes they have what it takes to humble their nemesis.
“We lost our first game against Mbarara City but that is behind us now. I told my players that we still have a long way to go. Our next game against Kitara is a tight one because it is a regional derby. We know everything about them and they also know much about us. They are a good team with experienced players but weren’t afraid to take them on. I have done my job as a coach it is now up to the boys to execute.” He said.
On the other hand, Mark Twinamatsiko is convinced Kitaara FC Mark Twinamatsiko his troops will be going for maximum points.
“We won our first game but it was against newcomers, I warned my players against complacency because we still have a long way to go. The game against Booma is like any other games only that it is a derby and we shall go aiming for maximum points because each match and points count. All my players are in the best shape and thus well prepared for the game.”
In other games, NEC FC host Police FC in Bugolobi, Karo Karungi welcomes Soroti City to Ibanda, Northern Gateway entertains Luweero United in Lira, Jinja North United plays Mbarara City at the Kyabazinga Stadium, Lugazi FC face Ndejje University while Kataka FC plays their first season game against Calvary FC at the FUFA Technical Centre.
Uganda Beach Soccer National Team Head Coach Angelo Schrinzi has named the final squad that will feature at 2022 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.
The coach confirmed a final list, comprised of 12 players on Tuesday morning.
The team that played at the recently concluded Beach Soccer COSAFA Championship in South Africa has largely been maintained.
The squad named has two goalkeepers, five defenders and five forwards.
The team will depart on Tuesday night (9PM) for Maputo, Mozambique where the tournament will be played between 21st-28th October.
Before departure the team will be officially sent off in a ceremony at FUFA Complex where the coach and players will also interact with the media.
The Sand Cranes are in Group B alongside depending Champions Senegal, Madagascar and Egypt.
It should be noted that this is the second time Uganda is qualifying for the final tournament.
In the last edition, Uganda went all the way to the semifinals before getting eliminated by eventual winners Senegal.
Final Squad for Beach Soccer AFCON
Goalkeepers Samson Kirya (Buganda Royal BSC), Meddie Kibirige (St. Lawrence BSC)
Defenders Jonathan Kikonyogo (St. Lawrence BSC), Allan Katwe (St. Lawrence BSC), Ashraf Opuuli (Mutoola BSC), Paul Lule (Buganda Royal BSC), Joshua Lubwama Letti (St. Lawrence BSC)
Forwards Baker Lukooya (St. Lawrence BSC), Ambrose Kigozi (Buganda Royal BSC), Godfrey Lwesibawa (Buganda Royal BSC), Brian Nkuubi (St. Lawrence BSC), Isma Kawawulo (MUBS BSC)
Officials Ronnie Kalema – Leader of Delegation Deo Mutabazi – UBSA Chairperson Angelo Schrinzi – Head Coach Salim Muwonge – Assistant Coach Tonny Ssebagala – Team Manager Ivan Kulika – Team Doctor Julius Mutebi – Media Officer Anthony Tumwesigye – UBSA Delegate Sharon Nalunga – FUFA Staff
Tooro and Lango became the first two Provinces to progress to the semi finals of the 2022 FUFA Drum tournament.
Both provinces overturned their first leg away defeats to book places in the Semi finals of the third edition in front of their passionate and cheerful crowds.
Lango Players Celebrate one of their goals against Bugisu.Tooro Province players celebrate after scoring against Teso.
At Kicwamba Technical Ground in Fort Portal, Tooro Province aware that they lost 2-1 in Soroti in the first leg, came in this encounter with an aim of scoring goals.
Tooro fans lift Benjamin Nyakoojo shoulder high.
Boosted by the return of Rwanda-based forward Nicholas Kagaba and defender Benjamin Nyakoojo, they never disappointed on the evening winning 2-0.
Tooro team that faced Teso in Fort Portal.
Kagaba and Innocent Asiimwe netted the two important goals in the first half that gave Tooro the priceless Victory to progress to the quarter finals for the first time in history.
The visitors saw Soltilo Bright Stars FC player Noordin Bunjo make his debut but was greatly tracked down the the home side midfield despite numerous attempts to unlock the opponents defence.
Ben Ocen, Isaac Ogwang both came closer to scoring for Teso but the Tooro Province defense marshalled by skipper Timothy Musinguzi, Nyakoojo as well as goalie Simon Tamale was alert to deal with all the threats.
Tooro sailed through on 3-2 aggregate and Nyakoojo was named man of the match.
Benjamin Nyakoojo receiving his man of the match plaque.
At the Akii Bua Stadium in Lira, Lango also overturned their 1-0 loss in the first leg to win 3-0 against Bugisu province.
Allan Okello in action against Bugisu.
The home side who had their supporters storm Akiibua stadium as early as 7am were boosted by the addition of KCCA FC duo Allan Okello and Rogers Mato who added flair, composure and goals to the team.
Okello (penalty), Mato and Denis Omedi scored the three goals to progress 3-1 on aggregate.
The fans at Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira City.
Wakiso Giants FC winger Moses Aliro was also superb, making two assists.
Two places remain to complete the semi final puzzle and will be played on Sunday 23rd with Kampala who lost 4-0 at West Nile in the first leg hosting them at Bugoloobi grounds.
While Buganda who lost 2-1 at Acholi will host the return leg in Luwero on the same day.
The Uganda Cranes has been held to a goalless draw by the Northern Region Select Team in a Regional Tour Match played on Saturday evening at the Pece Stadium in Gulu City.
Northern Region Select team Custodian Shaban Muhammed’s heroic display saved the hosts from conceding a number of goals on the day.
Team Captain Bobosi Byaruhanga hit the woodwork with his signature long range shooting outside the goal area in the first half of the game with James Jarieko and Samson Kasozi headed wide before the referee called for the break with nothing to show on the score board from both sides.
Uganda Cranes Head Coach Milutin Sredojevic introduced a new team captained Ibrahim Juma in the second half. They created many chances. The second half team missed several goal-scoring opportunities with Faisal Wabyona enjoying the game as he beat the back line but failed to put the ball past Northern Region Select goalkeeper. Kamwesiga Jacob shot wide with the custodian to beat while Juma had his efforts hit the woodwork as the game to ended in a barren draw.
Uganda Cranes team of U23 players that faced Northern Region
In a post-match interview, Uganda Cranes coach Sredojevic Milutin told www.fufa.co.ug he has been impressed by the display from the young inexperienced boys who put up a good show but only missed out on scoring goals.
‘I am impressed by the display from the boys. They have done it all but only failed to put the ball in the back of the net. Many are wearing the national team jersey for the first time and trust me if they continue like this, the future of Ugandan football is bright’
Uganda Cranes XI (1st half)
Fahad Emuran (GK), Samson Kasozi, Abdu Aziizi Kayondo, Rogers Torach, Bobosi Byaruhanga, James Jarieko , Isma Mugulusi, Derrick Kakooza, Titus Ssematimba, Rogers Mugisha and Rogers Madoi.
Uganda Cranes XI (2nd half team)
Abdu Magada (GK), Ibrahim Juma, Kagawa Senoga, Umar Kyebatala (Hakim Mutebi) , Faisal Wabyona, Frank Katongole, Sula Mpanga, Samson Baligeya, Jacob Okao, Jacob Kamwesigwa, Frank Sebuufu
Northern Region Select XI
Shaban Muhammad, Okot Denise Jamba, Mwaka Stephen, Akara Patrick, Okello Ronald, Opiyo Patrick, Onakalit Geoffrey, Ocakacon Brian, Odong Brian, Opiyo George Abege and Komakech Peter
Substitutes: Komach Douglas, Kisa John Baptist, Opoka Allan, Innocent Kinyera, Opiyo Sadam, Okwir Emmanuel, Mwaka Richard, Kajob Douglas, and Oceng Ivan.
The 98th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly was successfully held on Saturday at Acholi Inn, Gulu city in Northern region.
The Assembly had full representation from all the 34 Members that constitute FUFA with 80 of the 88 delegates attending.
FUFA President Hon Magogo Moses Hassim (3rd Left) poses for a photo with (L-R ) DCEO-Governance Sam Bakiika, Exco Member Ronnie Kalema, Hassan Kavuma, Andy Kaweesa (Buganda) and Stephen Kacuumu (Western Region FA Delegate) shortly after the AssemblyA section of the delegates attending the 98th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly. L-r Roberts Kiwanuka, Kabugo Mansoor (Uganda Youth Football Association), Owek. Florence Bagunywa Nkalubo, Margaret Kubingi (Uganda Women Football Association)
The Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang was the Chief Guest and lauded FUFA for the commendable job in as far as developing football is concerned.
Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang speaking during the Assembly.
“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, the Executive and delegates for promoting and developing football in Uganda. We are sure that with more funding from government the game of football will even become better,” he stated.
Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang
The local authority was heavily represented by Gulu City Mayor Alfred Okwonga and RDC George Owanyi Akuman.
Group photo at the end of the Assembly
In a first of its kind, Federation Presidents from other sports disciplines were also invited to attend. These included Uganda Boxing Federation President Moses Muhangi, Robert Jjagwe from Uganda Table Tennis Federation, Emmanuel Mwaka of Uganda Chess Federation, Uganda Rugby Union President, Godwin Kanyangwe and Nasser Sserunjogi from Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA).
UBF President Moses Muhangi and Emmanuel Mwaka from UCF share a light moment after the Assembly.Godwin Kanyangwe from URU and Moses Muhangi of UBF upon arrival at Acholi Inn for the FUFA Assembly at the invitation of FUFA President
Jjagwe who spoke on behalf of the Federation heads indicated their attendance was a show of solidarity and an image of unity among the sports disciplines.
Muhangi who also got the chance to speak shared similar sentiments and stated boxing is not an enemy to football.
National Council of Sports General Secretary Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel who also attended the Assembly indicated FUFA has been successful because of being transparent in their proceedings and called for other sports federations to borrow a leaf.
“I want to commend FUFA for its strategic leadership. For a long time now, the Federation has not been at fault of misappropriation of funds. I see very many Federation Heads here and I hope you can borrow a leaf from FUFA in terms of transparency and capacity building.” He indicated.
In his address FUFA President highlighted a number of amendments made and also the new initiatives taken to make the game better.
Decisions taken by FUFA Executive Committee prior to the General Assembly
FUFA President also revealed that the Uganda U23 National Team (The Kobs) has been withdrawn from the AFCON U23 Qualifiers where Uganda is supposed to face Guinea next week.
He also revealed that FUFA starting the next financial year will increase funding towards Member Associations to a tune of 2.5 billion annually.
Member Associations also presented private suggestions that were deferred to the Executive Committee for further guidance.
For instance Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA) through their Chairman Roberts Kiwanuka asked FUFA to give them mandate to run youth competitions, the Uganda Football Coaches Association (UFCA) asked for a Technical Agenda symposium while Futsal Association Uganda (FAU) Hamza Jjunju sought for more intervention and prioritization of Futsal and Beach Soccer.
At the end of the Assembly it was confirmed that Western Region will host next year’s event with the exact host DFA to be named later.
Patrick Kaddu scored a hat trick on his debut to guide Kitara FC to victory over Northern Gateway FC as the 2022/23 FUFA Big League began on Thursday.
Kaddu who recently joined the Hoima based outfit after a loan stint at KCCA FC from RS Berkene took no time to announce his arrival at Kitara FC.
The lethal striker who had scored some goals in pre season, officially opened his account on Thursday.
The other goal for Kitara was scored by Edson Agondeze in what was a one sided affair.
Elsewhere, Luwero United saw off new comers Kaaro Karungi in style, winning 3-1 thanks to goals from Musa Mugerwa, Derrick Mudali and Joseph Nkabirwa.
Luwero United FC players celebrate one of their goals against Kaaro Karungi FC.
Kaaro Karungi got their consolation goal through Denis Kalanzi.
Emmanuel Mugume’s 8th minute goal was enough to guide Police FC past a hard fighting Lugazi FC in Kavumba while the game between Ndejje University and Jinja North United ended in a barren stalemate.
Mbarara City were 3-1 winners over Booma FC in the game played at Kakyeka Stadium.
Henry Kitegenyi scored twice before Sadat Nsubuga added the other goal.
Booma FC got their consolation goal through Denis Omedi.
NEC FC won 2-1 at Calvary FC while Soroti FC got better of Adjumani FC, winning with the same scoreline.
Matchday two games will be played next week on Thursday with the key game being the Bunyoro derby between Booma FC and Kitara FC.
Everything is set and ready ahead of the 98th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly which takes place this Saturday, 15th October 2022.
Northern Region are the hosts of this year’s Assembly and Gulu City in particular will welcome football stakeholders at Acholi Inn Hotel.
FUFA Executive Committee pose for a group photo with former Minister of State for Sports Hon. Hanson Obua during the 97th AGM in Mbale City.
It should be noted that the FUFA Ordinary General Assembly is hosted on a rotational basis, moving across all the 8 regions of FUFA.
The last time Northern Region hosted the coveted Assembly was 2014 in Lira City.
Regions that have hosted the FUFA Ordinary General Assembly since 2013
2013 – Jinja (Eastern Region)
2014 – Lira (Northern Region)
2015 – Soroti (North East Region)
2016- Luweero (Buganda Region)
2017- Masindi (Kitara Region)
2018- Kabale (Western Region)
2019- Adjumani (West Nile Region)
2020 – Nakawa (Kampala Region)
2021- Mbale (Eastern Region)
2022- Gulu (Northern Region)
The Assembly takes place annually where delegates convene and review activities carried out in the previous twelve months plus planning for the future.
A section of delegates attending the FUFA Ordinary General Assembly.
According to Article 21 (2) of the FUFA Statutes and Regulations, the FUFA President conducts business at the General Assembly in compliance with the standing orders.
Some of the key areas of address in the FUFA Ordinary General Assembly include activity report, financial statements, approval of budgets, admission of new Members and dismissing of members among others.
Prior to the Ordinary FUFA General Assembly, all Member Associations convene independent annual Assembles in accordance with the FUFA Statutes.
The Sand Cranes have embarked on preparations for BEACH SOCCER AFCON 2022 finals – Mozambique. The squad has players that featured in the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Beach Soccer Championship that took place in Durban, South Africa where the Sand Cranes emerged third out of the eight countries that participated.
Some of the returning players include Lule Paul, Magwali Ronald and Mwere Nicholas whereas Lubega sharif, Steven Nyalimo and Kato Paul are the new additions to the squad.
The team had a double training session under the close supervision of Head Coach, Angelo Schirinzi and his assistant Salim Muwonge who hailed the competitive spirit of the players who trained, adding the start has been brilliant with the tasks and expectations ahead.
“I am very impressed by the commitment and character of the players in attendance. This is a great start ahead of our final tournament. The fitness levels of these players are improving promising and our main emphasis will be on our weaker points.” He said.
Schirinzi promised to give chance to all players as a way of promoting capable and talented Ugandan players.
The players in camp include;
Samson Kirya (Buganda Royal BSC), Meddie Kibirige (St. Lawrence BSC), Ronald Mutebi (St. Lawrence BSC), Peter Mukwata (Mutoola BSC), Lubega Sharif (Buganda Royal BSC), Paul Lule (Buganda Royal BSC), Jonathan Kikonyogo (St. Lawrence BSC), Allan Katwe (St. Lawrence BSC), Asharif Apuuli (Mutoola BSC), Kato Paul (Buganda Royal BSC) Magwali Ronald (Buganda Royal BSC), Onyango Herbert (Jinja Lions BSC), Isma Kawawulo (MUBS BSC), Baker Lukoya (St. Lawrence BSC), Ambrose Kigozi (Buganda Royal BSC), Joshua Lubwama (St. Lawrence BSC), Shaka Ssozi (Jinja Lions BSC), Nicholas Mwere(Jinja Lions BSC), Godfrey Lwesibawa (Buganda Royal BSC), Brian Nkuubi (St. Lawrence BSC) and Steven Nyalimo (Kiringente BSC).
Police FC Vs Lugazi FC – Kavumba Recreation Centre (Live on FUFA Tv)
Ndejje University FC Vs Jinja North United FC- Bombo Military Grounds
Mbarara City FC Vs Booma FC – Kakyeka Stadium
Kitara FC Vs Northern Gateway FC – Kigaya PS Grounds
Luwero United FC Vs Kaaro Karungi FC– Luwero Play Grounds
Soroti City FC Vs Adjumani TC FC- Soroti Municipal Stadium
The 2022/2023 FUFA Big League season gets underway this Thursday (today) with thrilling action expected across the country.
Many of the teams will seek to start on a perfect note in order to achieve the ultimate target of promotion to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League at the end of the season.
Police FC taking on Lugazi FC is one of the games expected to be closely contested.
The Cops who got relegated from the top division last season would want to bounce back straight and collecting points as early as possible is important.
Their massive recruitment tells it all with 16 new players confirmed early this week.
Coach Angelo Lonyesi told www.fufa.co.ug that the team’s ambition is to return to the top flight and it is the reason for the massive recruitment.
‘Our main ambition is to return to the top-flight league. I am glad that the new recruits have quickly adapted and ready to execute. It is a marathon thus we need to treat each game as a final. We are looking forward to our first encounter against Lugazi FC which is a good team according to their preparations thus we can not underestimate them,’ he said.
On the other hand, Lugazi FC are a new team on the rise and their remarkable journey from the regional League last season was able to earn them promotion to FUFA Big League.
Coincidentally, they will play their first FUFA Big League game at Kavumba Creation Ground, a place where they confirmed their promotion.
Coach Shafik Karim says they are not under any pressure because the team’s ambition is to survive relegation this season.
‘We are now in the second division thus there is a lot to learn. We won’t play under pressure but we shall always give our best to get good results with the main aim of surviving relegation.’ He stated.
The other games on Saturday will see Calvary FC hosting NEC FC in Yumbe, Ndejje University take on new comers Jinja North United while Kitara FC will be up against Northern Gateway FC.
Elsewhere, Mbarara City take on Booma FC, Luwero United face Kaaro Karungi while Soroti FC host Adjumani TC FC.
The top three teams at the end of the season are promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League with the bottom three relegated to their respective regional Leagues.
Uganda U20 national team (Hippos) has been summoned ahead of the AFCON U20 Zonal Qualifiers 2022 in Sudan. A total of 33 players have been summoned. The tournament will kickoff on 28th October to 11th November 2022.
Four foreign based players led by Greece based midfielder Isma Mugulusi have made the squad.
The other three are US based right back Unegbu Shemen Orakwue, Tuma Basil Tenywa (in United Kingdom) and Nsambu Lioyd Tendo (France).
Ivan Asaba, Andrew Kawooya, Wabyona Faisal, Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala and Mugulusi are the only products from the previous team that reached the AFCON U20 Final in Mauritania in 2021.
While some players like Ibrahim Juma, Issa Bugembe, Shamuran Kamya and Oscar Mawa have graduated from the U17 (Cubs).
The Hippos under Morley Byekwaso won the Zonal Qualifiers championship in Tanzania in 2020 to book a place at the final tournament in 2021 in Mauritania, reaching the finals before losing 2-0 against Ghana.
Byekwaso will continue to handle the team as head coach. However, heavy club schedules will not allow him to join immediately. His assistant Simeon Masaba will be the acting coach in the absence of Byekwaso.
The team will enter camp at the Cranes Paradise hotel, Kisasi on Wednesday 12th 2022.
Goalkeepers
Abdu Magada-Gaddafi FC, Kamya Shamulan-Bright Stars FC , Nsumba Venacious- Wakiso Giants FC, Ssenyondwa Denis Kaala- URA FC
Defenders
Opiru Justine- URA FC, Bugembe Issa- Bright Stars FC, Mpanga Sula- Maroons FC, Unegbu Shemen Orakwue- Houston Dynamo FC, USA, Ibrahim Juma- KCCA FC, Jimmy Ndalambi- Blacks Power FC, Samson Kasozi-UPDF FC, Ronald Madoi- Wakiso Giants FC, Mukisa Simon- UPDF FC, Nsambu Lloyd Tendo- FC Metz Academy,
Midfielders
Mayanja Saidi-KCCA FC, Allan Kiggundu- BUL FC, Katongole Frank-St Mary’s Kitende, Mugulusi Isma- Makedonikos FC, Greece, Nyanzi Marvin- Wakiso Giants FC, Andrew Kawooya- KCCA FC, Wabyoona Faisal- KCCA FC, Thomas Kakaire- Mbarara City FC, Mutebi Hakim- St Mary’s Kitende, Umar Lutalo- SC Villa, Muhammad Nsereko- SC Villa, Kasinde Ibrahim- Bright Stars FC, Asaba Ivan- Vipers SC, Tuma Basil Tenywa- Reading FC, UK, Lukwago Haruna -KCCA FC
Attackers
Kyeyune Abbas- UPDF FC, Emmanuel Mukisa- Kataka FC, Iddi Abdulwahid- Unattached, Oscar Mawa- Unattached
Second Round Qualifiers: Guinea Vs Uganda 1st leg Saturday 22nd October 2022 at 8pm (EAT) Venue: Chamazi Stadium, Dar es Salaam-Tanzania
2nd leg 29th October 2022 Uganda vs Guinea at St. Mary’s Kitende Stadium.
The Uganda U23 Men’s National Team Head Coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has named a provisional squad of twenty nine players to start preparations for the 2023 TotalEnergies U-23 Africa Cup of Nations that will be hosted by Morocco. The team mainly comprising of Uganda U17 and U20 graduates will enter residential camp on Wednesday 12th October 2022 at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisasi. The same squad has also been lined up for the Uganda Cranes Regional Tour of Northern Uganda with the match to be played on Saturday 15th October 2022 at Pece Stadium. The U23 team will face a Northern Region Select team.
The Squad Goalkeepers: Fahad Emuran- (Kibuli SS), Atugonza Tony (Buddo SS), Lukuya Kenneth-(Wakiso Giants)
Midfielders: Baligeya Simon- (URA FC), Byaruhanga Bobosi – (Elite Falcons FC (UAE), Serwada Steven – (New York Red Bull-USA), Ssekaja Davies (Sc Villa)
Attackers: Abdalla Salim, (URA FC), Ssematimba Titus –(Wakiso Giants), Bogere Ivan- (SC Villa), Ssenoga Muhammed Kagawa (KCCA FC), Mugisha Rogers-(UPDF FC), Sebyala Shafik, (Express FC), Jarieko James – (Onduparaka FC), Oketch Emmanuel- (Onduparaka FC), Kamwesiga Jacob –(Arua Hills SC), Basangwa Richard -, (Wadi Degla, Egypt), Kakooza Derrick- (Valmiera FC-Latvia), Ssebuufu Frank-(Wakiso Giants FC) and Umar Kyebatala (Maroons FC)
The first-ever workshop designed by FUFA for Club media officers of women clubs in the top flight, second tier and women football reporters climaxed on Friday 7th October 2022 at the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru.
Rogers Byamukama poses with the female participants
The Deputy Executive Secretary of the FUFA Marketing and Communications unit Rogers Mulindwa presided over the closing ceremony. He presented Certificates of attendance to the participants who successfully completed the course.
The three-day educational course was organised under the FIFA Women’s League Development Programme with specific attention on improving capacity building for the personnel handling media, Communications and marketing aspects of the clubs featuring in the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League and reporters of women football.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza while making the closing remarks thanked the participants who sacrificed their time to attend the three-day training.
‘You have been taken through various educational materials in the three days you have been in Njeru. You must now be aware that we have three goals to score in Governance, Sport and in Business. We now need a number of things to be able to do this. One of them is the hard way but most importantly the human resources as well. For you to have sacrificed these three days, on this particular course it is a very good initiative towards our mission of enhancing and creating more people aware especially the human resource for us to be able to score the other goals’ noted Kiiza.
“We want to thank FIFA because, under this program which was 100% sponsored by FUFA, it was through a FIFA program for League Development that we secured this course. We want to express our gratitude to the FUFA President and his Executive for having this collaborative initiative to support the FUFA Women Super League. We want to pledge as always that all these resources will not be put to waste. We want to ensure that people trained will be needed to support the League. The students will become our ambassadors for further development towards women football. We shall have more of these courses and ensure to attend when you are invited or called upon such that you come and have more knowledge’ added Kiiza.
The Deputy Executive Secretary of the FUFA Marketing and Communications unit Rogers Mulindwa delivered the FUFA Presidents message on the final day of the training.
Rogers Mulindwa
‘I bring you greetings from the FUFA President & he congratulates you all upon the success you have registered during the three days course. I thank all our instructors and as the Federation, we are fully committed to continue sharing with you knowledge. I urge all the participants to prioritize marketing & communication because they are key in achieving our vision of becoming the number one footballing nation in Africa on & off the field. It is very important as media officers to follow the principles of communication when you go back to execute duties at your various clubs. On behalf of the Federation, we thank FIFA for the continuous support of Women Football in Uganda. This year, FIFA funded a Club licensing Workshop for Women Football & it was successful. We also thank FUFA for the continued support towards Women Football. I now officially declare the three day Women Football Marketing & Communication workshop closed’ said Mulindwa.
The day’s final presentation was on match organisation handled by CAF General Coordinator Ali Mwebe which highlighted planned activities from pre-match, match day and post-match with set targets.
‘Match organisation requires planning from the smallest details to the biggest consideration. Perfection of a match is everyone’s effort and requires teamwork. Everyone attached to the club must be involved in preparations and organization but need to be informed about targets. Preparation, timing, budgeting, distribution of responsibilities according to abilities and teamwork are always key for a successful match’ remarked Mwebe
A vote of thanks by Apio Gloria Nicole on behalf of the participants. She thanked the Federation for such an amazing workshop which is targeted to develop women football.
Apio Gloria Nicole
‘We would like to thank FUFA as most of us came here with little knowledge. Standing before you I wouldn’t imagine that someday I would be here at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru sharing football knowledge with my colleagues in the field of media. The main aim for this workshop was to learn and gain more knowledge on marketing and communication. It will help us to promote women’s football through our balanced stories that we cover about the game’ noted Apio.
The workshop was graced by high-profile instructors in the field of marketing (Rogers Byamukama), communication (Ahmed Hussein), match organization (Ali Mwebe), administration (Ronnie Kalema and Kiiza Decolas, Refereeing (Ronnie Kalema) security and safety (Humphrey Mandu).
Each theory class was followed by a practical session conducted at the Technical Centre and participants were awarded certificates.
They included Gladys Zawedde, Aminah Namutebi, Aminah Babirye, Margret Trexsoner Nabbona, Gloria Nicole Apio, Amatulah Nabukeera, Faridah Tomusange Nassejje, Priscilla Namikka, Jazirah Kansiime, Judith Tuhirirwe, Hamuza Waiswa, Ali Ssewanyana, Swaib Mbuga, Sinan Rajub Ssenoga, Hamza Ssali, Isma Mivule, Hambali Majojo, Andrew Talenga, Edwin Waiswa, Shafic Mutebi, Haba Plan Uwizera, Hassan Kirunda, Steven Mayanja, Godfrey Kakungulu, Yona Omara, Joshua Bachwa Abwoli, Abbey Munwyevu, Collins, Arop Stanslas, Phillip Dexer Muhumuza, Banur Kintu, Issa Ssempijja, Samuel Ochora Oryem, John Baptist, Opua, Godfrey Nsingwire and Onyango Gilbert.
Uganda cruised to the semifinals at the ongoing CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for next year’s U17 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating neighbours South Sudan.
In the final group game played on Thursday at Abebe Bikila Stadium, Addis Ababa, the Uganda Cubs won 4-1 to remain perfect and thus secure a slot into the last four.
Uganda Cubs celebrate one of the goals.
Arafat Nkoola netted twice while Abubakali Walusimbi and Patrick Ssembuusi also got a goal each.
Action between Uganda and South Sudan.
Victory meant Hamza Lutalo’s charges registered their second win in as many games.
Bearing in mind that groups have three teams, Uganda completed business at this stage and now awaits for the opponent at the next level.
Either Tanzania or Somalia who both defeated hosts Ethiopia will be opponents for Uganda in the semifinals.
The two face off this Sunday with the winner leading group A and avoiding Uganda.
The finalists earn slots to represent the region at the final tournament.
Uganda is seeking to make it to that stage for the third successive time.
The inaugural workshop for media covering women football officially got underway on Wednesday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The three day workshop organised under the FIFA/FUFA League development Proragmme is hinged on two key aspects; marketing and communication with 34 participants taking part. The target group is the media officers of Clubs in the FUFA Women Super League, FUFA Women Elite League and media covering women football in Uganda.
A section of participants attending the workshop.
‘The main target of the workshop is to equip club media officers and journalists who report about women football in Uganda with more skills on the latest trends of the game’ said lead instructor Ahmed Hussein who is the FUFA Communications Director.
The selected topics are; FUFA and its Development Programmes, Communications in football, Laws of the Game, Pre-Match, Match Day and Post Match activities, Marketing in football, Importance and Role of Media Officers, Media relations, Club Identity, Ambassador programme, marketing girls and women’s football, Match Day experience and Introduction to match Organisation.
Journalists and Media Officers undertaking a practical session.
FUFA EXCO member Rogers Byamukama who graced the opening ceremony highlighted that the course helps media practitioners shape the image of women football to the public.
FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Byamukama passing on knowledge to participants during presentation of the Marketing in football.
“Marketing and Communication are key components for every organisation because they help in stakeholders’ engagement. Media is one of FUFA’s key stakeholders as they play a key role in dissemination of news about our activities professionally. Without media, it is difficult to achieve organisational objectives,” said Byamukama.
Rogers Byamukama supervising a marketing session during the first day of the workshop.
Byamukama also noted, “The vision of FUFA is to be the number one footballing Nation in Africa both on and off the pitch and that basically means we have to keep innovating and keep doing the right things. You should expect more as this is one of the many initiatives we are going to have in women football.”
Participants sharing notes about women football in UgandaParticipants share a light moment.
The first session of the workshop was conducted by FUFA Executive Secretary of Football Development, Ronnie Kalema who highlighted about FUFA and its Development programmes. The session helped the participants to get a clear understanding of Association Football.
FUFA EXCO Member Ronnie Kalema lectured the participants on the FUFA and its Development programmes that also covers Association football.FUFA EXCO Member Ronnie Kalema during a practical session on pitch about Laws of the Game.
The morning session also had Communication in football presented by FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein. It covered components of objectives of communications, role of a media officer, initiating media coverage and supplying information on demand by the media.
FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein is the lead instructor of the course in the areas of Marketing and Communications.Ahmed Hussein putting a message across to the partcipapnts.Radio Presenter Joshua Falcon Bachwa from Fort Portal
Laws of the Game and Marketing in football were also part of the opening day activities. Kalema who is a former FIFA referee took the media through the opening seven laws of the game he believes will help the participants.
Group photo after participants had completed the practical session of the Laws of the Game.practical session: Omara Yona is a journalist from Lira during the post match interviews Group discussion: Margaret Nabonna taking the lead on listing the products that can be sold by a club.
The laws of the game presented practically were field of play, ball, players, players’ equipment, Referee, other match officials and duration of the game.
Kawempe Muslim LFC Media Officer Faridah Tomusange Nassejje attending the course.Practical session: Participants walk onto the pitch for a game on day one of the workshop.Night life: The participants in a group photo at the end of the game.A photo taken of some of the key areas covered and presented by participants. L-R Aminah Babirye-official National Women team’s stadium announcer, Gladys Zawedde-Buganda Region FA Media Officer and Kansiime Jazira of Bunyaruguru Girls FC
Uganda vs South Sudan Abebe Bikila Stadium Kickoff: 1PM
Uganda U17 Football National Team will seek to seal a place into the semifinals as they take on South Sudan on Thursday at the ongoing U17 Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers in Ethiopia.
The Uganda Cubs made a perfect start to the tournament by defeating Burundi 4-0 two days ago and will be hoping to replicate similar performance.
Uganda Cubs celebrate one of their goals against Burundi.
Coach Hamza Lutalo believes his charges are in the perfect shape to win Thursday’s game.
“We have conducted our last training and thankfully there are no injuries in the team. I believe we are in the perfect shape to go and win tomorrow,” he said.
Coach Hamza Lutalo
“South Sudan has not played yet so we do not know how they play but I have confidence in my players to go and perform to their best abilities.”
Alex Yiga who bagged a brace against Burundi indicates the team is geared towards the final group game.
Alex Yiga celebrates after scoring against Burundi.
“The result from the first game gave us confidence and I believe we have the chance to do even better.” He said.
It should be noted that the finalists will represent the CECAFA Region at next year’s U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Uganda has qualified for the last two editions including last year’s tournament that was cancelled due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
Uganda U17 Football National Team sent a statement of intent in their opening game of the TotalEnergies U17 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
Uganda Cubs celebrate one of the goals against Burundi.
In the game played on Monday at Abebe Bikila stadium, Ethiopia, Uganda Cubs eased past Burundi, winning 4-0.
Alex Yiga led the way with a double while Arafat Nkoola and Richard Okello got a goal each.
Action between Uganda and Burundi.
Yiga gave Uganda a deserved lead in the 12th minute and by halftime, he had two goals to his name.
By halftime, Uganda was 3-0 up with the other go coming from Nkoola in the 38th minute.
Uganda Cubs say a short prayer before kickoff.
The final goal for Uganda came from Okello in the 56th minute.
The team will return to action on 6th October against South Sudan and victory will send them to the semifinals.
It should be noted that there are two groups,each composed of three teams after the disqualification of Sudan and Djibouti.
Starting XI
Siraje Bieven Etuta(GK), Elvis Ssekajugo, Hafidhu Ssonko Ssembatya, Hakim Wandera, Jamal Ssemwogerere, Steven Mugisha, Abubakali Ssembuusi, Arafat Nkoola, Richard Okello
