Return Leg (Sunday, 20th March 2022): Ethiopia Vs Uganda in Addis Ababa
(Aggregate: 2-2)
The Uganda U-17 national women team head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi has named the travelling squad to Ethiopia for the return leg of the 2022 FFIFA Women’s Under-17 World Cup qualifiers.
The return leg will be played on Sunday, 20th March 2022 in Addis Ababa.
A delegation of 33 people departs the Country on Friday afternoon 18th March 2022 at 2 PM aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
Kiyingi is optimistic that the team will give their best show in the return leg.
‘Since the first leg, we have been training well. The morale is high in the team and all the players are ready to give their best come Sunday in the return leg. We shall give the best spirited fight in the match’ Kiyingi revealed to www.fufa.co.ug.
Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
The return leg will be played on Sunday, 20th March 2022 in Addis Ababa.
Both teams are tied 2-2 on aggregate after the first leg played at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on 4th March 2022.
FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Mulindwa is the Leader of the Delegation.
Traveling Delegation:
Mr. Rogers Mulindwa – Leader of Delegation
Kavuma Hassan – Official
Lugemwa Patrick – Official
Mukatabala Paul Nantulya – Official
Ampaire Sheebah – Official
Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi – Head coach
Mbekeka Oliver – Assistant coach
Magala James – Goalkeeping coach
Kyesimira Arthur – Fitness Trainer
Nankumba Stella – Team Doctor
Nakiguba Cissy Gaudensia – Equipment Manager
Namusisi Joan – Team Manager
Musiime Conrad – Team Media Officer
Uganda U-17 women team players celebrate a goal against Ethiopia at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022 (Match Day 17 Results):
Thursday, 17th March 2022
Proline 0-3 Calvary
Nyamityobora 1-3 Ndejje University
Kyetume 2-0 Maroons
MYDA 1-1 Kataka
Kitara 1-1 Luweero United
Match day 17 of the StarTimes FUFA Big League was completed on Thursday, 17th March 2022.
A total of 13 goals were scored in the five matches at the various venues across the country.
Calvary and Ndejje University managed to secure victories away from home, winning 3-0 and 3-1 at Proline and Nyamityobora respectively.
Abdul-Karim Kasule and Nicholas Luzige scored for Ndejje University in their 3-1 win on the road over Nyamityobora at the Kakyeka Stadium, Mbarara city.
Meanwhile, Kyetume assumed the summit of the table standing with a hard fought 2-0 home win over Maroons at the Nakisunga Ssaza playground.
Emmanuel Kalyowa and Sharif Saaka scored both goals for Kyetume, in the second half.
Malaba Youth Development Association (MYDA) played to a one all draw with Kataka at the King George IV Memorial stadium, Tororo.
MYDA ended the game with 10 men after a red card to Geofrey Sserunkuma who had also scored their opener via a penalty kick.
Kitara and Luweero United ended 1-all at the Masindi Municipal Stadium, Masindi.
Match day 18 will be played on 31st March 2022.
The top three clubs at the end of the season will be promoted to the Uganda Premier League.
The bottom three clubs shall be relegated to the respective regional leagues.
Dynamic Jjeza 3-2 Acholi Queens Ajax Queens 1-3 Isra Soccer Academy Wakiso Hills WFC 2-1 EHCOS SS WFC Kataka SHE FC 1-1 Makerere University WFC Bunyaruguru Girls FC 1-1 King of Kings WFC Luweero Giant Queens 1-1 Asubo Gafford Ladies FC
The 2021/22 FUFA Women Elite League campaign got underway over the weekend with thrilling action witnessed across different grounds.
Three teams managed to register wins on the opening matchday with the other three fixtures ending in stalemates.
In Victoria Group, Isra Soccer Academy dispatched Ajax Queens FC at Kikaaya Playground, winning the game 3-1.
Striker Jovia Nakagolo netted a hat trick to guide Isra to victory. Ajax Queens got their consolation goal through Martha Nalunkuuma.
In the same group, Bunyaruguru Girls and King of Kings from Fort Portal played out a one all draw.
Harriet Nawera scored for Bunyaruguru Girls while King of Kings scored through Carol Kobugabe.
Luweero Giant Queens salvaged a point against Asubo Gafford Ladies thanks to an equalizer from Josephine Mukungu. Teddy Nyafwono had given Gafford Ladies the lead at the star of the second half.
In Elizabeth Group, Dynamic Jjeza and Wakiso Hills WFC earned slim wins over Acholi Queens and EHCOS respectively.
Wakiso Hills had to come from behind to win 2-1 against EHCOS. Faith Namuddu and Jaridah Nanyonjo scored for Wakiso Hills to cancel out Agnes Atim’s opener.
Dynamic Jjeza fought hard to see off Acholi Queens in a five goal thriller, winning 3-2 at home.
Brenda Nandagire, Sandra Nakalya and Viola Tebitondwa scored a goal each for Jjeza while Acholi Queens had Rachael Acio and Sharipher Atimango scoring.
Kataka SHE FC and Makerere University WFC played out a one all draw.
The resumption of the Uganda Cranes regional tours is set for this weekend with a trip to the Buganda Region at the Ssaza Grounds in Mityana.
Uganda Cranes coach has named a 26 man squad for the trip with the match to be played on Sunday 20th March 2022. The squad has three foreign based players Lukwago Charles, Faruku Miya and Chris Akena and will make the short journey for the tour sponsored by Airtel and Nile Special. The three players are in the country but undergoing privately organised training sessions.
The Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has also included Bunyaga Bruno of Impala Hills FC who scored the winning goal for Buddu in the 2022 Masaza Cup Final
The Squad
Goalkeepers
Lukwago Charles (St George FC, Ethiopia)
Alionzi Nafian (URA FC)
Komakech Jack (Vipers SC)
Defenders
Begisa James (UPDF FC)
Jurua Hassan (KCCA FC)
Kayondo Azizi (Vipers Sc)
Juma Ibrahim (KCCA FC)
Najib Fesali (URA FC)
Satulo Edward (Wakiso Giants FC)
Olouch Bob (Vipers SC)
Mukundane Hillary (Vipers SC)
Kizito Gavin (Sc Villa)
Semakula Keneth (Sc Villa)
Midfielders
Kasonko George (BUL FC)
Youngman Marvin (Soltilo Bright Stars FC)
Yiga Najib (Vipers SC)
Akena Chris (Unattached)
Mutyaba Travis (Sc Villa)
Bunyaga Bruno (Impala Hills FC, Buddu Masaza Team)
FUFA Women Super League 2021/2022 season Matchday 6 Results UCU Lady Cardinals FC 1-2 Kampala Queens FC She Maroons FC 2-0 Rines SS WFC Olila High School WFC 0-1 She Corporate FC FC Tooro Queens 0-1 Lady Doves FC
She Corporate FC extended their stay at the summit of the league table after securing a hard fought 1-0 win away at Olila High School WFC on Sunday.
The Sharks needed Favor Nambatya to convert a penalty in the second half to overcome a resilient Olila side at Soroti Stadium.
She Corporate FC opened up a six point gap at the top (Photo by Kawowo Sports)
Victory meant She Corporate FC opened a six point gap at the top with 16 points garnered from six games.
UCU Lady Cardinals FC and Kampala Queens FC who follow in second and third place respectively have 10 points apiece but the latter having a game in hand.
It should be noted that Kampala Queens defeated UCU Lady Cardinals on Saturday in Mukono thanks to goals from Zaina Nandede and Lilian Mutuuzo.
Zaina Nandede scored the winning goal for Kampala Queens against UCU Lady Cardinals.
Hasifa Nassuna got the consolation for the University side in a game that was disrupted by a heavy downpour.
Elsewhere, new comers She Maroons FC picked their first win of the season against fellow new entrants Rines SS WFC on Saturday in Luzira.
She Maroons FC got their first win against Rines SS WFC.
A goal from Lilian Kasuubo and own goal from Rines SS captain Shakira Nalule ensured the Prison Sentries got off the mark.
Despite earning maximum points, She Maroons FC remained in the drop zone on 4 points and occupy second place from the bottom.
In the same vein, defending Champions Lady Doves FC who have endured a sloppy start to the season eventually got a win, defeating FC Tooro Queens in the Kitara region derby.
Lady Doves earned bragging rights in the Kitara derby.
Fazila Ikwaput scored a late penalty to guide the Masindi based outfit to victory, a result that moved them out of the drop zone for the first time this season.
The fixture involving Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC and Uganda Martyrs WFC was not played because the two clubs have several players in the Uganda U17 Women’s National Team camp preparing to face Ethiopia in the return leg of the first round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022 (Match Day 16):Sunday, March 13, 2022 Results
Kataka 6-1 Kitara
Maroons 3-1 Luweero United
Proline 2-1 MYDA
Blacks Power 0-0 Kyetume
Calvary 0-0 Nyamityobora
Kitara, Maroons and Proline Football Club recorded home victories on match day 16 of the StarTimes FUFA Big League on Sunday, March 2022.
Kataka was biggest winner with a 6-1 humilitation of Kitara 6-1 at the Mbale Municipal Stadium, Mbale city.
Raymond Derrick Onyai (2), Emmanuel “Messi” Mukisa, Swamadu Okuru, Noah Mudenyi and an own goal were the goals for Kataka.
Elsewhere, Maroons defeated Luweero United 3-1 at the Prisons stadium in Luzira. Fred Amaku scored twice and Solomon Walusimbi netted the other.
Luweero United’s goal came from defender Brian Nsubuga.
At Lugogo, Proline edged visiting Malaba Youth Development Association (MYDA) 2-1
Table leaders Blacks Power and Kyetume played to a goal-less draw at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira city as Calvary and Mbarara city based Nyamityobora played to a goal-less stalemate at the AbaBet Green Light Stadium in Arua city.
Three clubs shall be promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
A good coach goes for the young and talented players for future good resale value.
The football commentary business in Uganda has only one name Peter Otai flying on fans’ lips.
There are some budding players on the market and their future is very bright.
Each corner of this country with a Television set in any homestead, has had a chance to listen to the soothing, deep and clear voice of arguably the best commentator in the region.
Otai has propelled himself to the top with his good football commentary in English.
With his commentary on National broadcaster UBC Television and Azam Television, Otai has produced the best lines to match with top football moments to rightly cement the memories of artistry and good command of the Queen’s Language.
Peter Otai during commentary
The applauses from his huge following on various social media platforms have seen comparisons made with renowned football commentator Peter Drury. No wonder he shares the first name with the Poet-the world’s number one football commentator.
Otai has worked on a number of projects, including international fixtures; AFCON U17 (2019 in Tanzania) CECAFA tournaments (2018 in Kenya, 2019 in Rwanda, 2020 in Uganda, 2021 in Ethiopia), Uganda Cranes fixtures, Crested Cranes fixtures, Mapinduzi Cup (2018 in Zanzibar), Uganda under age National teams (U17 and U20), Uganda Premier League with Azam Tv (2015-2018), The Tanzanian National football league, the FUFA Women Leagues and Stanbic Uganda Cup.
The opportunities and experience garnered over the years have since made Otai a house hold name in the field.
Peter Otai doing commentary
FUFA media unfolds Peter Otai who started commentary in 2000.
Question: In a few words, how would you describe yourself?
Peter Otai: – I am a down to earth guy who loves to take on a challenge with the hope of improvement just in case. In other words I’m a risk taker.
Question: Are you related to former defence minister Pater Oati in President Apollo Obote’s cabinet?
Peter Otai: Yes I am. He is my Uncle and I was named after him. He actually came home when I was born (as told by my parents) and that was the last we saw him.
Peter Otai on duty
Question: The ‘Usual Suspect’ – Why that nickname?
Peter Otai: I got it from Kyambogo University. I was very naughty and whenever there was strike at the University, the administration would say look for the usual suspect Otai.
Question: Childhood memories?
Peter Otai: I have very good memories. I came to Kampala when I was 2 years and lived in Bukoto white flats. It was the time of hardships which had regime change, bullets and scarcity of essential goods like salt, food, sugar and soap but the family pushed through.
Question: Were you good at any Sport growing up?
Peter Otai: Yes, I played a lot of football. You can ask Savio Kabugo and his sibling Ronnie Lusulire. They know all about my football story. However, I was so much into athletics. I represented my school- City Primary Kololo during the District Championships in Kampala. I later changed to volleyball and handball. Sport is part of my DNA.
Question: When did you actually realize that you can be a good commentator?
Peter Otai: When I was working for Magic 100fm through my manager Paul Kiwa Kurtner who encouraged me to take up the commentary and then Opoka James (RIP) did the polishing. I started with the English Premier League and Uganda Cranes matches.
Question: Who is your greatest influence?
Peter Otai: In Radio it was ‘Uncle Mitch’ of 88.2 Sanyu Fm. The guy ruled the air waves and I recall how I used to disturb him a lot but in life it is my mother as usual one of the strongest people I have seen alive.
Question: The fans say Peter Otai is CECAFA’s Peter Dury. How do you take such compliments?
Peter Otai: well I welcome them and it shows that they love what I do. Peter Drury is big and if you are tagged to him, then it’s great. We all know what he brings on table with the global audience and I am growing steadily.
Question: How do you prepare for a match?
Peter Otai: It takes a lot to prepare for a match for commentary. I spend alot of time visiting websites looking for stories about each player and I also make calls to some friends for facts.
Question: What message can you give to young ones out there who would like to follow your path?
Peter Otai: Let no one put you down. If you feel you can do it then go for it. Take any criticism as positive to improve. English is not our mother tongue but just embrace and make it part of you. Love what you do and it will love you back. Let the passion drive you.
Otai in the commentary box
Question: What is that embarrassing moment you have ever encountered with your job?
Peter Otai: A listener called live on air hurled all sorts of insults at me. It’s a day to remember. I was playing music and boom, I was excited to pick up the caller only to tell me that you are wasting time, play good music and not oldies.
Question: Your best moments behind the microphone?
Peter Otai: The best moment is when I commentated live the Uganda Legends vs Brazil legends at Nakivubo stadium and the AFCON U17 in Tanzania.
The lowest moment is when I lost my father (RIP) and I was live on air commentating the league match in Mwererwe. Papa died at 5.45pm and I had to finish that game and then reached the morgue late but I was allowed to see him. I was meant to pass home that day because he had called me. I was already on the move to the stadium for commentary but had promised to see him later in the day. I wasn’t able to know why he was calling me for.
Peter Otai
Peter Otai smiles with the CECAFA Kagame Cup that KCCA won
Question: You have done commentary for Women Football, what’s your assessment on the progress of these leagues?
Peter Otai: We have a future in Women football. The girls show maturity in the game and I have fallen in love with women football. I believe we are having the best women league in CECAFA Region. From Fazila Ikwaput to Namataka and Juliet Nalukenge, women football has grown in Uganda. I just can’t believe how competitive the league is to see Lady Doves FC the winner of the league now languishing in the relegation. She maroon winner of the FUFA Womne Elite league also in the same boat. The league is for the girls to chill with the ‘big boys’.
Question: How has the experience been like doing commentary of the Stanbic Uganda Cup?
Peter Otai: It was great that Vipers SC v BUL FC final was epic. It made my day. Eight goals; four from one player Yunus Sentamu, then a striker Musa Esenu goes in goal for BUL……it has been a good experience. I am already enjoy the ongoing campaign.
Pete Otai checks the watch
Peter Otai during the Azam Uganda Premier League days
The StarTimes FUFA Big League match day 15 was played on Thursday, 10th March 2022.
There were 12 goals scored in five matches; with the table leaders Blacks Power winning 2-0 over Maroons at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira.
Second placed Kyetume edged visiting Ndejje University 1-0. Sharif Saaka scored in the 21st minute for The Slaughters.
Kitara and Proline played to a 2-all draw at Masindi Municipal Stadium, Luweero United overcame Kataka 2-1 and MYDA humbled visiting Nyamityobora 2-0 at the King George IV Memorial stadium in Tororo.
Three clubs will be sportingly promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and three demoted to the respective regional leagues.
Next Games (Sunday, 13th March 2022):
Maroons Vs Luweero United – Prisons stadium, Luzira
Blacks Power Vs Kyetume – Akii Bua Memorial Stadium, Lira city
Kataka Vs Kitara – Mbale Municipal Stadium, Mbale city
Proline Vs MYDA – MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo
Calvary Vs Nyamityobora – AbaBet Green Light Stadium, Arua city
The FUFA Corporate Social responsibility attached to the Stanbic Uganda Cup 2021/2022 season has been launched.
This was at the round of 16 draws conducted on Wednesday at the FUFA Complex in Mengo.
FUFA Events Manager, Leilah Nankya speaking at the function.
For the last two years, the noble campaign has been on hold due to COVID-19. However, FUFA Events Manager, Leilah Nankya confirmed it is back this year.
FUFA Events Manager, Leilah Nankya.
‘Football is not just a game, it brings people together and we share a lot through it. For the previous two editions we have not had the CSR campaign due to COVID-19 but I’m glad to inform you that we shall have it this year,’ she started before adding, ‘We welcome the general public to embrace this exercise by bringing clothes, shoes, beddings etc that we will give out to the less privileged people in the region where the final will be held.”
Nankya added that football is a unifying tool that should be used to change and touch the lives of people from all sorts of life and therefore through the Stanbic Uganda Cup, basic need like clothes could be of help.
Collection centres for the items will be placed at FUFA, selected Stanbic Bank branches and Plascon Paint outlets.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 Draw Booma FC vs Tipsa FC Wakiso Giants FC vs UPDF FC Vipers SC vs Kataka FC Police FC vs Mbale Heroes FC Maroons FC vs Ndejje University FC Onduparaka FC vs Winner between Express FC vs SC Villa Soltilo Bright Stars FC vs BUL FC Mbarara City FC vs Iganga Young FC
The round of 16 Draw for the 48th edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup has been successfully conducted on Wednesday at FUFA Complex.
A total of 17 teams are still in contention for the coveted Cup and all were placed in one pot in the round of 16 draw to determine the fixtures.
Round of 16 draw of the 48th Stanbic Uganda Cup edition were held on Wednesday.
It should be noted that the round of 32 game between Express FC and SC Villa has not yet been played.
The event was graced by former Uganda Cranes footballer Ibrahim Buwembo who featured for several clubs including Coffee FC, State House FC and Express FC among others.
Ibrahim Buwembo sharing his football story to the media.
Buwembo indicated he was honoured to be part of the draws and lauded FUFA for uplifting the status of domestic competitions.
” I’m honoured to grace this event. It is encouraging to see that this competition has continued to grow in stature and now attracts sponsors like Stanbic Bank and Plascon Paint,” he stated.
Ibrahim Buwembo aka Black Maradona.
“I remember in the early 1990s while captain at Coffee FC we tried to win the Stanbic Uganda Cup but faced a big challenge in overcoming SC Villa with the likes of Paul Hasule(RIP). But I’m glad that in the evening of my career at Express FC, I was able to eventually lift this prestigious title.” Buwembo reminisced.
FUFA Third Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi revealed that going forward, each team that wins the Stanbic Uganda Cup will get replica trophies for keeps. This is aimed at helping teams keeping memories with trophies in their cabins.
FUFA Third Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi.
KCCA FC (winners 2017-18), Proline FC (winners 2018-19) and current holders Vipers SC (2020-21) all received their replica trophies.
Representatives from Proline FC, KCCA FC and Vipers SC receiving their replica Stanbic Uganda Cup trophies.
“We thank our sponsors who embraced this idea of creating replica trophies. We believe this is a good initiative for Clubs have these trophies for keeps.” She indicated.
In the draws held, Booma FC from Kitara regional league will face Tipper and Sahara Football Club(Tipsa FC) from Koboko in the West Nile Regional League.
Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi displays Wakiso Giants FC in the round of 16 draw.
Maroons FC and Ndejje University FC both from the StarTimes FUFA Big League will face off at the round of 16 while holders Vipers SC will host Kataka FC.
Current holders Vipers SC will face Kataka FC at the round of 16.
In the other games, Police FC take on Mbale Heroes FC, Wakiso Giants FC face UPDF FC while 2019 runners up Soltilo Bright Stars FC will be up against BUL FC.
Mbarara City FC will host Iganga Young while Onduparaka FC will face the winner between Express FC and SC Villa.
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajjat Aisha Nalule, stated that a player with two yellow cards in the previous rounds will serve a suspension at the round of 16.
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajjat Aisha Nalule.
She also confirmed that the round of 16 Fixtures will be played between 20th -24th March 2022.
At the same event, FUFA Events Manager, Leilah Nankya launched the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaign attached to the 48th edition.
FUFA Events Manager, Leilah Nankya
“Football is not just a game, it brings people together and we share a lot through it. For the previous two editions we have not had the CSR campaign due to COVID-19 but I’m glad to inform you that this year, we shall have it running,” she started before adding, ” we welcome the general public to embrace this exercise by bringing clothes, shoes, soap, beddings etc that we will give out to the less privileged people in the region where the final will be held.”
The FUFA Executive Committee will confirm the venue and host region at a later date.
FUFA Women Super League Tuesday Results Uganda Martyrs WFC 0-1 FC Tooro Queens Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC 0-1 Rines SS WFC
Rines SS WFC and FC Tooro Queens each picked their first win this season, defeating Kawempe Muslim Ladies and Uganda Martyrs WFC respectively.
In the games played on Tuesday, Rines SS WFC defied odds to nick three points off Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC at their own backyard.
Rines SS WFC players celebrate after winning against Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC.
On the other hand, Tooro Queens who had seen all their opening five games ending in stalemates eventually got victory, overcoming Uganda Martyrs in Lubaga.
Action between Uganda Martyrs WFC and FC Tooro Queens.
Sumaya Komuntale who features for Uganda U20 Women’s National Team and the Crested Cranes scored the lone goal for the Country Queens.
Sumaya Komuntale celebrates after scoring against Uganda Martyrs WFC.
The left footed defender fired home in the 19th minute and this eventually turned out to be the decisive moment of the game.
The win moved Tooro Queens up to 4th position on 8 points in 5 games. Uganda Martyrs on the other hand dropped to 7th position with 6 points from 4 games.
FC Tooro Queens team that started against Uganda Martyrs WFC.
Rines SS WFC also picked their maiden win this season, thanks to Yasmeen Nalukwago’s solitary strike that guided them past Kawempe Muslim.
Rines SS WFC starting XI against Kawempe Muslim Ladies.Kawempe Muslim starting XI against Rines SS WFC.
Victory lifted Rines out of the drop zone and now occupy 8th place with 5 points.
Action will resume over the weekend with four games on card. On Saturday, Rines SS WFC will face She Maroons FC who are second from bottom and yet to win a game. Wounded UCU Lady Cardinals will be up against Kampala Queens in Mukono.
Sunday will have table leaders She Corporate making a trip to Soroti to face Olila High School WFC while FC Tooro Queens will take on Lady Doves in the Kitara region derby.
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has summoned 35 players ahead of the upcoming FIFA International window in March 2022 as the preparations for the Total AFCON 2023 qualifiers start.
The sqaud has a combination of players in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League (20) and those playing elsewhere (15).
There are 5 goalkeepers, 9 defenders, 6 central midfielders, 7 offensive midfielders and 8 forwards.
Some of the returning players include Faruku Miya, team captain Emmanuel Okwi, Allan Kyambadde with new faces like Marvin Youngman (Soltilo Bright Stars FC), reigning Airtel FUFA footballer of the year Bobosi Byaruhanga, young players ; goalkeeper Jack Komakech, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga, Derrick Kakooza, Sadat Happy Anaku and Alfred Leku.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi returns to the fold after a spell of good form in Rwanda with Kiyovu
Returning Faruku Miya
Micho intends to use this pool of players for the upcoming four nation mini-tournament (Navruz Cup 2022) in Uzbekistan that will be held between 25th to 29th March in Markaziy Stadium, Namangan city.
Uganda Cranes will play alongside Tajikistan, hosts Uzbekistan and the Kyrgz Republic.
‘After qualifying for two consecutive AFCON finals in 2017 and 2019, Uganda Cranes missed out on the 2021 edition in Cameroon. We immediately went for early preparations to ensure qualification for AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast with an international friendly match in South Africa, CECAFA senior challenge cup in Ethiopia (U-23), international build up in Ethiopia, six FIFA World Cup qualification matches and recently a UEFA-Asia tour. The upcoming mini-tournament in Uzbekistan will help us to conduct the main general check-up before the AFCON 2023 qualifiers in June 2022 (1st – 14th June). We have been in transition where several players have retired including captain Dennis Onyango, Hassan Wasswa, Mike Azira, Juuko and others. We have an important duty to make ourselves ready’ Micho revealed.
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic
The whole team training programme will be released soon where two internal regional tours have been planned to help assess the returning players and the local legion.
‘We shall test the players with internal regional build up and tune the competitive mode since friendly matches are all about trying, testing and experimenting before naming the final 23 players who will travel to Uzbekistan.’ Micho added.
The final team to Uzbekistan will then be named before travelling for the first game against Tajikistan on 25th March 2022.
The third place play-off and final matches will then be held on 29th March 2022. All matches will be played at Markaziy stadium in Namangan.
Provisional Squad:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago (St George FC, Ethiopia), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC, Uganda), Isma Watenga (Chippa United FC, South Africa), Benjamin Ochan (KCCA FC, Uganda), Jack Komakech (Vipers SC, Uganda)
Central Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Yanga, Tanzania), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Steven Sserwadda (Red Bull New York, USA), George Kasonko (BUL, Uganda), Marvin Youngman (Soltilo Bright Stars FC, Uganda), Moses Waiswa (Supersport United, South Africa)
FUFA Women Super League Matchday Five Results UCU Lady Cardinals FC 1-2 She Corporate FC Rines SS WFC 0-3 Kampala Queens FC FC Tooro Queens 0-0 Olila High School WFC She Maroons FC 0-2 Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC
Matchday Five of the FUFA Women Super League was dominated by visiting teams picking victories. She Corporate FC, Kawempe Muslim Ladies and Kampala Queens all secured maximum points on the road.
On Saturday, She Corporate overcame UCU Lady Cardinals in the top of the table clash, coming from a goal down to win 2-1 in Mukono.
The two goals for the Sharks came at the very death of the game with Favour Nambatya converting a penalty in the 88th minute while substitute Susan Atim got the winner in the second minute of added time.
She Corporate FC players celebrate one of their goals (Photo by Lillian Nakitende).
The University side had taken an early lead in the 12th minute through towering defender Shadia Nankya who headed home Hasifa Nassuna’s cross.
Sandra Kisakye of UCU Lady Cardinals attempts to go past Aminah Nakato (Photo by Lillian Nakitende).
Victory took She Corporate top of the table on 13 points, three ahead of UCU Lady Cardinals who lost for the first time this season.
At Wakissha Grounds in Wakiso, Kampala Queens put up a dominant display to ease past Rines SS WFC, winning 3-0 with all the goals coming in the first half.
Margaret Kunihira celebrates after scoring against Rines SS WFC (Photo by Kampala Queens Media).
Margaret Kunihira was the chief tormentor, scoring a brace before defender Diana Nantongo directed Zaina Nandede’s cross into her own goal.
The result moved Kampala Queens to 7 points in four games while Rines SS WFC remain without victory and will face Kawempe Muslim Ladies on Tuesday.
Kawempe Muslim themselves did just enough to see off new comers She Maroons in Luzira thanks to first half goals from debutant Phiona Nabulime and left back Asia Nakibuuka.
Phiona Nabulime (jersey number 21) wheels away in celebration after scoring against She Maroons (Photo by Ismail Mulangwa).
The record Champions could move as far as second place on Tuesday if they win with a big margin against Rines SS WFC.
Shakira Nyinagahirwa evades a challenge from Lillian Masinde (Photo by John Batanudde).
FC Tooro Queens played out their fifth draw in as many games on Saturday at home to Olila High School WFC.
The game played at Buhinga Stadium in Fort Portal City ended goalless and Tooro’s search for the first win this season will continue. They will face Uganda Martyrs WFC on Tuesday in Lubaga.
Tooro Queens are yet to win this season. All their five games have ended in draws.
Olila High School on the other hand will remain within Kitara region to take on bottom placed Lady Doves FC at Katusabe Stadium in Masindi on Monday.
StarTimes FUFA Big League (Match Day 14): Sunday 6th March 2022 – All games kick off at 4 PM
Maroons Vs Kataka – Prisons Ground, Luzira
Ndejje Vs Blacks Power- Arena of Visions, Ndejje
Proline FC Vs Luweero United- Omondi Stadium, Lugogo
Calvary Vs Kyetume- Greenlight Stadium, Arua
Nyamityobora Vs Kitara FC- Kakyeka Stadium, Mbarara
The adrenaline is soaring as we edge closer to the climax of the StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021/2022 season.
Matchday fourteen is another one to lookout for when clubs battle for top slots to see them promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League while others are fighting against relegation to the Regional Leagues.
Maroons hosting Kataka at the Prisons Grounds in Luzira is the match highlighting the day as both teams battle for top slots to see them automatically promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
The two teams are separated by just a point with the Prison waders sitting second on the log with twenty five points while the Mbale based Kataka FC is third after collecting twenty four points from the thirteen matches played.
Maroons is looking out to revenge to the 1-0 defeat they suffered in the first round at the Mbale Municipal Stadium when Joel Onzile’s lone goal made the difference in December.
Table leaders Blacks Power FC are travelling to the Arena of Visions to face seventh placed Ndejje University FC.
The Lira based Blacks Power has bagged twenty seven points, only two ahead of Maroons and just three ahead of Kataka thus can’t afford losing any point which might cost them the top of table position.
Mid table Calvary FC entertains Kyetume FC at the Greenlight Stadium in Arua in a bid to close the gap between the top table teams.
The hosts are fifth on the table with nineteen points while visiting Kyetume FC is fourth with twenty one points.
In other encounters nineth placed Proline FC hosts eighth placed Luweero United in a relegation battle at the Omondi Stadium in Lugogo while struggling Nyamityobora hosts Kitara FC at the Kakyeeka Stadium in Mbarara.
FC Tooro Queens vs Olila High School WFC – Buhinga Stadium, Fort Portal
UCU Lady Cardinals vs She Corporate FC – UCU Ground, Mukono
Rines SS WFC vs Kampala Queens FC – Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium
Games kickoff at 3PM
Sunday, 6th March 2022
She Maroons FC vs Kawempe Muslim – Prisons Ground (Kickoff:2PM)
Monday, 7th March 2022
Lady Doves FC vs Olila High School WFC -Katusabe Stadium, Masindi (Kickoff:3PM)
Tuesday, 8th March 2022
Uganda Martyrs WFC vs FC Tooro Queens – Lubaga (Kickoff:4PM)
Kawempe Muslim Ladies vs Rines – Kawempe (Kickoff:4PM)
Action in the FUFA Women Super League will resume this weekend with exciting fixtures spread across the country. Key among those will be a top of the table clash between UCU Lady Cardinals FC and She Corporate FC.
The fixture slated for Saturday at UCU Ground in Mukono pits the best two clubs in the League so far, judging from their brilliant start to the new season.
UCU Lady Cardinals occupy top spot on the log with ten points from four games while visiting She Corporate follow closely in second place on the same number of points. The former however, lead because of a better goal difference.
UCU Lady Cardinals (Photo by Voice of Bugerere).
The 2018/19 Champions have scored eight ans conceded one while She Corporate on the other hand have netted six times and conceded once.
The recent engagements between the two sides have provided thrilling moments and closely contested. For instance the last two games have ended in draws.
Shadia Nankya of UCU Lady Cardinals attempts to clear the ball away.
In 2019 at UCU Ground, a one all draw was registered while the most recent encounter at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru ended with no goal registered.
Action from the last time the two teams faced off at UCU Ground in Mukono.
Victory for either side in Saturday’s encounter will give them a shot in the arm and a chance to take early charge in the title race.
Elsewhere, FC Tooro Queens who have picked four points in four games will be targeting their first win of the season as they host Olila High School WFC.
Tooro Queens team that started against Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC (Photo by Voice of Bugerere).
Olila returned to winning ways last weekend, defeating She Maroons and will hugely rely on versatile Grace Aluka who leads the scoring charts with four goals in the three games she has played.
Grace Aluka (in black) fights for the ball with Harima Kanyago of Uganda Martyrs WFC (Photo by Ismail Mulangwa)
Kampala Queens and Rines SS WFC who were out of action last weekend will face off in Wakiso with the former hoping to capitalize on their victory over She Maroons on Matchday three.
Margaret Kunihira scored the lone goal as Kampala Queens overcame She Maroons in Luzira a fortnight ago.
Margaret Kunihira (right) celebrates with Shamirah Nalugya after scoring against She Maroons (Photo by Kampala Queens media).
New comers Rines SS WFC on the other hand have two points to show this season, both coming at home against Tooro Queens and She Corporate.
On Sunday, Kawempe Muslim Ladies who have had a sloppy start to the season with just three points from three games will hope to get back on the rails against winless She Maroons in Luzira.
Kawempe Muslim’s Hadijah Nandago in action against Kampala Queens.
Action will spread through to Monday with Olila visiting bottom placed Lady Doves while Tuesday will have two postponed games. Kawempe Muslim will be at home to Rines SS while Uganda Martyrs WFC will entertain Tooro Queens.
FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2022 First Round, First Leg Uganda 2-2 Ethiopia
Uganda and Ethiopia played out a two all draw in the first leg of the first round in the 2022 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Despite Uganda leading 2-0 midway through the second half, Ethiopia fought hard to score two goals inside the final ten minutes.
Kamiyati Naigaga shields the ball away from an Ethiopian player.
Hadijah Nandago netted twice for Uganda but Ethiopia salvaged a point through Emush Daniel Dandamo and substitute Semira Kedir Ahmed.
Uganda started the better side and captain Shakira Nyinagahirwa got the first attempt on goal in the sixth minute from a free kick but her effort sailed just wide.
The first chance for the Ethiopians came in the 15th minute when Meseret Mamo Wolde attempted to lobe the ball past on rushing goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu but her attempt went off target.
Coach Ayub Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi was forced into making an early change when defender Patience Nabulobi suffered a head injury and was replaced by Esther Namusoke.
There were further changes upon resumption with Sumaya Nalumu and Shamusa Najjuma coming on for Brenda Munyana and Kamiyati Naigaga respectively.
Nalumu nearly opened the scores a minute after coming on with her delivery from the corner kick nearly beating goalkeeper Abeba Ajibo Afa.
It was Nandego who broke the deadlock in the 66th minute. The forward was quick to lash onto the ball ahead of the goalkeeper who had moved off her line.
Uganda U17 players celebrate after scoring.
Six minutes, Nandego netted her second of the day, capitalizing on a defence lapse, with her effort outside the box going into the back of the net.
The visitors however kept the belief and continued to make attempts. The pressure eventually paid off dividends with Dandamo scoring in the 79th minute.
Kruthum Namutebi in control.
Deep into stoppage time, Ethiopia found the equalizer when Semir found space in the box and lobed the ball beyond the goalkeeper’ reach.
The two teams will face off two weeks from now in the second round with the winner on aggregate taking on South Africa.
StarTimes FUFA Big League current leading scorers:
1. Ezra Kaye (Kyetume FC) – 10
2. Fred Amaku (Maroons FC) – 9
3. Hakim Kiwanuka (Proline FC) – 8
4. Clinton Kamugisha (Kitara FC) – 8
5. Geoffrey Sserunkuma (MYDA FC) – 7
6. James Okiror (Blacks Power FC) – 6
7. Michael Siwu (Blacks Power FC) – 6
Every situation at this stage of the season is very tight. The story is not different in the StarTimes FUFA Big League.
There races already identified as three teams need to be promoted to the Uganda Premier League while others are fighting for survival.
Ezra Kizito Kaye celebrates a goal with Kyetume teammate
However, there is an interesting subplot in the ongoing StarTimes FUFA Big League; The Race for the Golden Boot.
Kyetume FC forward Ezra Kaye, who is leading the charts with 10 goals, has vowed to clinch the gong that also comes with Sh1m from FUFA at the end of the season.
The left-footed striker is however facing stiff competition from Maroons danger man Fred Amaku who is a goal adrift in second while Hakim Kiwanuka (Proline FC) and Clinton Kamugisha (Kitara FC) follow closely on eight.
There is no room for sleeping on duty.
Ezra Kizito Kaye (right) takes on Nyamityobora in the StarTimes FUFA Big League this season
Veteran Geoffrey Sserunkuma who has since left MYDA FC is on seven.
Blacks Power James Okiror and Michael Siwu who are on six goals each, are the other strong contenders to the throne.
‘It is exciting to be on top at the moment. It is what every striker looks forward to. It is my first time in Big League and I am extremely happy to have scored 10 goals so far’ said Kaye who has scored a third of Kyetume’s 30-goals tally so far this season.
‘I attribute all this to hard work and dedication but it all goes back to team work because I cannot score a goal alone as an individual. We are 11 players on the pitch and everyone has a role to play before a goal is scored’ notes Kaye.
Ezra Kizto Kaye (middle) against Express
‘I also set my targets as an individual and work towards that every time I step on the pitch. This time, I want to score 16 goals and finish as the top scorer. I think that is already within my reach. I am sure God will guide me through’ he adds.
The 20-year old forward who scored three goals in the Uganda Premier League during the 2020/21 relegation season for Kyetume FC, says that he wants to use the Mukono-based side as a platform for bigger dreams.
‘I have not reached where I want to be. I need to help Kyetume FC return to the Uganda Premier League. I want to play for top clubs abroad and also represent my country with the Uganda Cranes. Kyetume FC has given me the platform to showcase my ability and I am very grateful’ said Kaye.
Kaye passes the ball with his magic left foot
Kyetume after spending some good life in the promotional places of the currnet FUFA Big League season, currently sits fourth on the 11-team log with 21 points.
‘We shall earn promotion and have a good coach who has been very integral for me this season. He has trusted me, given me more playing time and above all he has managed to keep us together amidst challenges’ Kaye valued his coach.
Kaye, is a first born of seven children of Charles Ddamba (Father) and Rose Nakasi (Mother), but credits Richard Kirabira (Manager of his first ever football team Busula Sports Club) for helping him in all spheres especially when they were abandoned by their Dad.
‘Kirabira is a father-figure to me’ Kaye fondly states.
‘He has been there for me and my family in times of need and paid for my tuition even at Uganda Christian University’
The special plaque Kaye recieved from Uganda Christian University (UCU)
Kaye attended Crane Infant, Kakoola SS and Janan Luwum Secondary among other schools in Luwero before joining Uganda Christian University in Mukono.
His football career started out at Busula Sports Club in first division. He later crossed to Simba UWA where he played for just a half season before signing with Kyetume FC.
He was the top scorer with 15 goals as Uganda Christian University’ won the 2019 University Football League, beating St Lawrence in the final at Lugogo.
That same year, 2019, he also won the University games at Kisubi and clinched the Masaza Cup final with Bulemeezi.
Growing up, Kaye admired the enterprising deadly ‘Mu-Mu’ duo Hassan Mubiru and Andrew ‘Fimbo’ Mukasa. He also liked former French striker Thierry Henry during the English Premier League days at Arsenal.
Kaye (right) celebrates with Kyetume teammates
Dreamers can never be taken undermined. Kaye has walked the journey so far but he believes there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
For now, he has a target of leading his club back to the Uganda Premier League, finish top scorer and get called up to the Uganda Cranes.
Former StarTimes FUFA Big League top scorers:
2021/22: ???
2020/21: Clinton Kamugisha (Nyamityobora FC) – 12 goals
MAIN PHOTO: Ezra Kizito Kaye recieves a special plaque from the Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II at Bamunanika Palace after he guided Bulemeezi to the Masaza Cup trophy in 2019.
