FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: Youth Football

  • 3rd FUFA-UPL breakfast convenes successfully, clubs advised to package their brand

    3rd FUFA-UPL breakfast convenes successfully, clubs advised to package their brand

    The third Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) – Uganda Premier League (UPL) breakfast meeting was convened at Imperial Royal Hotel in Kampala on Tuesday, 8th August 2021.

    The well attended meeting was graced by FUFA top brass led by the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA Executive Committee Members, Club Chairmen and Chief Executive Officers, UPL Board Chairman Arinaitwe Rugyendo and his board members, Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredejovic, FUFA Secretariat staff, special guest Timothy Batabaire (former Uganda Cranes and SC Villa defender) as well as the media.

    The 3rd FUFA – UPL Meeting at Imperial Royal Hotel, Kampala

    The FUFA President fronted the element of protection of the football brand by all means in a bid to lure partners and sponsors who would finance the game on television.

    ‘FUFA has an agenda of protecting the interests of all the members. Football is a game of stakeholders (internal and external). Everybody has a role and our roles are different. Let us have the fans registered however little they may be for all the clubs (institutional and community) noted Hon. Magogo.

    The Future:

    The FUFA President elucidated about the future of the game in Uganda with a strategy to score a hattrick through professionalization of the league, mass football promotion and earning from the game.

    FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo

    ‘As we look at the future; we want to score a hattrick – Making a professional league, every child born in the country must have a chance to kick a ball (mass football) and seeing success for Ugandan players in their respective clubs and on the national team. We must package well our football because football money comes from television since the money from rich men and FUFA is limited. We are at our strongest as football in terms of the people, technology and the conducive environment. It is not the time for fighting because UPL needs very strong clubs’ he added.

    Rugyendo lauded the FUFA leadership for acceptance to organize such forums as he called upon the football fraternity to forge measures of living with the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Uganda Premier League Board Chairman Arinaitwe Rugyendo

    ‘I recognize the efforts of the FUFA President and team in organizing this meeting. Such discussions are intended to see the game move forward as they see football development and reforms in laws of football that govern the game. The COVID-19 pandemic affected the way of running the game with stadiums closed without fans. The economy is limping. We lack ambiance, thrill, home advantage and the costs of implementing the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are too high.’ Rugyendo stated.

    He also hinted about several issues affecting the 16 members of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League;

    ‘There are some issues from members concerning compliance of COVID-19 SOPs, FIFA COVID-19 relief fund, biased officiation and negative energy from members’ he added.

    FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi

    The 3rd FUFA Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi reiterated upon the background of these meetings dating as far back as 2020.

    She called for more cooperation and teamwork effort as means of taking the beautiful game miles ahead.

    ‘Football is now more of cooperation, consultation and building teamwork. Clubs have concentrated on inner capacity. There are a couple of proposals as completion of FUFA clubs’ SACCO initiative, joint media visits, and inclusion of the FUFA Big League clubs in such forums’ she stated.

    Timothy Batabaire, former Uganda Cranes international also attended the FUFA-UPL breakfast meeting at the invitation of FUFA President Hon. Magogo Mosses Hassim.

    Former Uganda Cranes and SC Villa defender Timothy Batabaire was guest speaker calling for infrastructural development.

    ‘This is a room of wisdom. Uganda has rich talent but we miss the greatest ingredient of infrastructure. Also, football clubs should have more fans than supporters as it is the case in South Africa. Let us protect what we have. We can disagree along the way but at the end of the day, we shall all celebrate. Let us share the gold medal (football) and we shall reap’ Batabaire remarked.

    Decolas Kiiza (FUFA Deputy CEO – Football)
    Humphrey Mandu Watenga, FUFA Deputy CEO – Services and UPL Board member

    Uganda Cranes head coach Micho asked for open cooperation amongst all the clubs as the country plots for qualification to the FIFA World Cup finals.

    Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredejovic

    ‘I am a member of this football institution of UPL. Let us all have open cooperation. The technical part will follow all your work. The FIFA World Cup dream is a realistic journey’ Micho stated.

    FUFA Executive Committee member and Chairman Competitions Committee Hamid “Midi” Juma
    Chris Kalibala, FUFA Executive Committee member and Chairman Football Development Committee.
    UPL Board Vice Chairman David Serebe
    UPL Chief Executive Officer Bernard Bainamani

    UPL Chief Executive Officer Bernard Bainamani, club officials all had rich discussions that were documentated and will be reviewed from time to time for the right implementation.

    Newly promoted clubs, Arua Hill SC and Tooro United FC were also represented.

    Joe Aita Jaffar, Arua Hill SC Chairman
    Suubi Kiwanuka, Express FC Representative
    Hassan Takoowa Mugerwa, Chairman Busoga United FC

    Clubs attendance:

    Hassan Lule (Wakiso Giants Chairman), Suubi Kiwanuka (Express Board Secretary), Hassan Takoowa Mugerwa (Busoga United Chairman), Joel Aita (Arua Hill), Shawn Mubiru (SC Villa CEO), Ashiraf Miiro (UPDF CEO), Musa Ssebulime, Patron Wakiso Giants), Sabasaba (Onduparaka CEO), Mathias Mugwanya (Soltilo Bright Stars CEO), Michael Wandera (Tooro United Chairman), Simon Peter Njuba (Vipers Sports Club CEO), Henry Mayeku (URA Football Club CEO), Asan Kasingye (Police Chairman), Martin Ssekajja (KCCA FC Chairman), Ahmed Kongola (BUL Football CEO)

    The third FUFA-UPL breakfast meeting was well attended with great deliberations discussed
  • Byekwaso names Uganda’s final team for 2021 CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup

    Byekwaso names Uganda’s final team for 2021 CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup

    CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup 2021: (July 18-31) – Bahir Dar, Ethiopia:

    • Group A: Uganda, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
    • Group B: Ethiopia, Burundi, Eritrea
    • Group C: Djibouti, South Sudan, Kenya

    Uganda’s fixtures:

    Sunday, 18th July 2021: Uganda Vs DR Congo (2 PM)

    Sunday, 25th July 2021: Uganda Vs Tanzania (4 PM)

    Uganda Kobs (U-23) head coach Morley Byekwaso has confirmed the final 23 man squad for the 2021 CECAFA U-23 challenge cup tournament in Ethiopia.

    Enock Walusimbi is team captain, deputized by Charles Lukwago and Gavin Kizito Mugweri.

    Team captain Enock Walusimbi

    The team flies out to Ethiopia today (Wednesday, 14th July 2021) at 3pm aboard Ethiopian Airways.

    FUFA Executive committee member Rogers Byamukama is leader of delegation.

    The final 23 man squad to Ethiopia

    Goal Keepers: Lukwago Charles (KCCA FC), Saidi Keni (SC Villa), Dennis Otim (Express FC)

    Defenders: Enock Walusimbi (Express FC), Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers SC), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants FC), Musa Ramathan (KCCA FC), Kenneth Ssemakula (BUL FC), Magambo Peter (KCCA FC), Gavin Kizito ( SC Villa)

    Midfielders: Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC), Abdul Karim Watambala (Vipers SC), , Steven Sserwadda (KCCA FC), Bright Anukani (KCCA FC), Salim Abdallah (SC Villa).

    Forwards: Mukwala Stephen Dese (URA FC), Ivan Bogere (Wakiso Giants FC), Saddam Masereka (SC Villa), Julius Poloto (KCCA FC), Najib Yiga (Vipers SC), Hakim Kiwanuka (Proline FC), Derrick Kakooza (Police FC), Samuel Ssenyonjo (KCCA FC)

    Morley Byekwaso, head coach of Uganda 23

    OFFICIALS:

    Leader of Delegation: Rogers Byamukama

    Head Coach: Morley Byekwaso

    Assistant Coach: Simeon Massa

    Goalkeeping coach: Steven Billy Kiggundu

    Team Manager: Bashir mutyaba

    Team Doctor: Emmanuel Nakabago

    Kitsman: Samuel Mulondo

    Media Officer: Lawrence Bwanika

    FUFA Delegate: Isa Musiiwa

    FUFA Staff: Edward Kalungi

  • Youth Football: UYFA holds successful 14th Annual General Meeting

    Youth Football: UYFA holds successful 14th Annual General Meeting

    As a constitutional mandate, the Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA) held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, 10th July 2021 at the FUFA Special Interest Groups offices in Lungujja, Kampala.

    With a limited number present at the physical assembly, many of the members followed attentively via internet technology (Zoom).

    UYFA held a physical and online Annual General Meeting via ZOOM

    A new executive committee led by Roberts Kiwanuka was announced as they peacefully received the instruments of power from the out-going wing headed by John Bosco Masiko, now an honorary UYFA chairman.

    ‘Together with my team, we plan to initiate several task forces for youth leagues, improve standards of youth football, improve on competitions at all levels, increase on media coverage and branding of UYFA to attract more partners, improve player welfare (Diet, health, education), empower communities that raise better footballers, improve membership by offering membership benefits, introduction of academy league and championship (Uganda Academy League)’ Kiwanuka disclosed.

    Roberts Kiwanuka receives a framed UYFA portrait from the out-going chairman John Bosco Masiko
    Humphrey Mandu Watenga
    Swallley Kenyi, FUFA Member Associations officer

    The federation was ably represented by the FUFA Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu Watenga and Swalley Kenyi (FUFA Member Associations officer).

    ‘I want to thank the organizers for the AGM. I bring warm greetings from FUFA leadership particularly the FUFA president Eng. Moses Magogo. The Federation is proud of the organization and achievement. COVID-19 hit all of us so hard. I credit UYFA for being steady fast and work amidst the pandemic with the online AGM. Youth football is a conveyor belt concept to grow the beautiful game. As FUFA, we continue to plan and work together for the football development with priority to girls football, among others. I strongly caution against illegal player exodus, illicit player transfers. Enhance the player data base and better infrastructure. Encourage women into youth football. FUFA will wholesomely support the youth protection policy’ Mandu stated.

    Delegates approved the work plan and budget of Shs. 202,400,000/= for the 2021 – 2022 period.

    The limited people who attended the AGM physically

    New Members:

    This assembly officially admitted new members as; Mbale Kids Soccer Academy, Wakatayi Soccer Academy – Luwero, Jean Sseninde United Soccer Academy, Everton Foundation Uganda Academy – Kawempe, Kona Abicial Sports Academy – Agago, Mbale Sonset Soccer Academy, Friends of Goodwill Soccer Academy – Apaci, Amerigo Youth Soccer Academy – Mbale, Ishaka Ruins Soccer Academy – Ishaka, FISPA – Masaka, Sparrows Sports Club, Kigezi Soccer Academy – Kabale and Youth Environment Services (YES) Academy – Busia.

    New Executive committee:

    Kiwanuka is chairman. He is assisted by Morris Otidi and Farouk Kigongo as first and second deputies respectively.

    Mansoor Kabugo, Gad Batuuse, Peter Sserumaga, Patience Athuhaire and John Michael Erebu are the committee members.

    The co-opted members are; Abbey Ssentongo, Francis Mugoya and Warren Akankwasa.

    John Bosco Masiko hands over the UYFA constitution to Roberts Kiwanuka (left).Middle is Shafik Kigongo, the UYFA CEO

    Secretariat:

    Shafik Kigongo retained as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Kennedy Steven Ssekabira is the deputy CEO. Swaibu Mbuga heads the media committee that also has Martin Kaddu and Alex Kasirye.

    Robert Lubega, Joel Muwanguzi and Dennis Namanya are in charge of events.

    Football Development committee has Farouk Kigongo, Sharon Acheng, Bashir Mutyaba and Anthony Papira.

    Ibra Kakeeto, Peter Sserumaga, Kabugo Mansoor and Moses Mawa are in competitions.

    Christine Wanyana is in charge of women football while Ronald Ssali, Salim Twaha Blanden and Fahad Zzimula are for youth.

    Counsel Patience Atuhaire, Counsel Derrick Lutalo and Hajji Jafari Ssenganda are on the legal committee.

    Gad Batuuse, Abbey Ssentongo Donaca, Sarah Birungi and Naftal Mukasa are part of the finance committee.

    The girls football development committee has Yasin Mubiru, Fridah Mabeeri and Betty Mayanja.

    Warren Akankwasa, Ronald Alonso and Francis Mugoya sit on the marketing committee.

    Faizal Nsubuga, Brian Nsubuga, Robert Tugume and Timothy Gumisiriza are in charge of youth referees.

    Ibra Nsereko, Zakaria Mulawa and Isaac Mulywani are in charge of communications.

    Destiny Nsubuga, Dorothy Namugenyi and Sergie Maiklish Morshe are on futsal committee.

    Beach soccer committee has Anthony Tumwesigye, Shafic Mudholo and Shafik Kakooza.

    Ethics, Disciplinary and fair play has Rev. Father Francis Sseguya, Hashim Kato, Faizal Nsubuga, Moses Mawa Muze and Morris Otidi

    Regional Coordinators:

    Among the regional coordinators include Morris Otidi (Lango),Paul Ocheng (Northern), Bernard Owor (Bukedi), Shafik Kakooza (Entebbe Road), Isaac Ogogo (Central), Ibrahim Nsereko (Kawempe), Julius Lubega (Rubaga), Bosco Dudu (West Nile), Ronald Alonso Nuwasiima (Ankole), Jessy Lukoki, among others.

    MAIN PHOTO: Some of the Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA) delegates with FUFA representatives at the SIG House after the 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM)

  • Broadcast of FUFA Competition matches on Television

    Broadcast of FUFA Competition matches on Television

    Preamble

    With the Covid-19 situation raging in the country during the final bend of the 2019/2020 season, FUFA mooted a plan to have its Competitions on Television (TV) to give fans a chance to watch the matches since they were not allowed back in the stadia.

    It was also one of the ways of taking the game to the public via TV.

    The broadcast started with the promotional playoffs of the Regional Leagues and the Star Times FUFA Big League.

    These were produced by FUFA and broadcast on FUFA TV (Facebook Live). 

    Later on, the FUFA Women Competitions and Uganda Cup were also televised via UBC, the National Broadcaster.

    Action between Ajax Queens and Amuria High School at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru

    Commercial and Broadcast Rights:

    In the past, FUFA was not able to sell the commercial rights of the FUFA Women Competitions and Regional Promotions but had sold the commercial rights of the Uganda Cup at 300m UGX (85,000 USD) to Stanbic Bank and 132m UGX (37,000 USD) to Kansai Plascon.

    FUFA has not been able to sell the Broadcast (Media) rights of the FUFA Women Competitions, Regional Promotions and the Stanbic Uganda Cup.

    In order to create more value for the commercial rights holders of the Uganda Cup thus Stanbic Bank and Plascon, FUFA undertook to pay the cost of production and also agree with a broadcaster to air the matches.

    Vipers’ Jamil Kalisa with the ball against UPDF at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende during the Stanbic Uganda Cup match in one of the televised duels
    Shafik Bbosa captures the match proceedings on the main camera

    Production of Matches

    Production is the process of capturing the matches using Video Cameras and converting the captured video content into electric or electromagnetic or optic signal depending on the expected means of transmission.

    The Signal is later transmitted normally via a telecom or satellite provider to the Broadcaster Network.

    Production of a football match to be transmitted and aired live is a huge cost ranging from 30,000 USD for international feed standards to a local market price of about 5,000 USD for the current Ugandan Standards.

    FUFA received a proposal by Satellite Plus Systems, a company that has been in trade with FUFA over the same business for the last about 10 years to produce 94 matches at a cost of about 1,100 USD per match.

    FUFA was saving more than 75% from the local market rates for the same job.

    FUFA accepted the offer and contracted Satellite Plus Systems to undertake the job.

    FUFA Social media team on duty. Behind is the Satellite Media Plus Outdoor Broadcasting Van

    UBC Television – FUFA Partnership:

    In order to broadcast the signal produced by Satellite Plus Systems, FUFA agreed terms with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) Television to broadcast the FUFA Women Competitions Matches (56 matches) and Uganda Cup (25 matches).

    National Broadcaster UBC TV has offered free airtime for the Stanbic Uganda Cup and FUFA Women football competitions with the hope of making future revenue.

    There was no exchange of money from either party but a share of the revenues when eventually broadcast sponsors are found.  

    Inside the new HD UBC Television Studios
    FUFA President Eng Moses Magogo (with microphone) addressing the media during a press conference as Stanbic Bank announced their sponsorship

    Revenues:

    So far, only Stanbic Bank has agreed to pay 80m UGX (22,800 USD) as a contribution to the cost of production which is about 362m UGX (103,000 USD).

    There are currently over 10 prospective brands in negotiations with FUFA to be part of the Live Broadcast Sponsors of FUFA Competitions for next season.

    The objective is to generate more revenues from the sale of Broadcast to cover the full costs of production, transmission, and TV airtime.

    Whereas these are inelastic cost centres, the rest of the monies shall be for rights for the benefit of FUFA, Clubs, Referees, Coaches, and Players amongst others.

    Hakim Matovu on Goal Angle camera 3
    Joyful Ugandans cheer the national team, Uganda Cranes. Fans are pertinent of a football match
    Fred “Maanso” Ssewankambo in charge of goal angle camera 1

    Other Values of Football on Television:

    Whereas raising value and hence more revenues is the main objective, FUFA wishes to achieve other objectives such as:

    1-Extend viewership of the FUFA Competitions to Homesteads, Offices, Bars, Schools and all other places where masses of people collect;

    2-Build the brands of FUFA, Competitions, Clubs, Coaches, Players and Referees;

    3-Use the media content for;

    a) Performance Analysis of the players and referees;

    b) Archiving;

    c) Second opinion on matters missed by the match officials;

    d) Disciplinary Actions.

    Action between Lango Queens and Wakiso Hills at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru during the FUFA Women Elite League
    The capturing moment of live images during a football match

    FUFA Procurement Processes:

    The FUFA Executive Committee, as mandated, enacted the FUFA Procurement and Disposal Manual and FUFA has also hired a fulltime procurement officer in the names of Isaac Natukunda.

    In the process of procuring Satellite Plus Systems for the production of the 94 matches, all FUFA procurement processes were followed.

    Also, to note, from the documents at the disposal of FUFA received as part of due diligence, Hon. Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim (the FUFA President) is not one of the owners of the Company neither was he involved in the process of its procurement.

  • Covid-19: No more fans in stadiums at FUFA Organised and authorised Competitions

    Covid-19: No more fans in stadiums at FUFA Organised and authorised Competitions

    FUFA has issued Circular number 1136 directing all clubs not to admit fans to the stadiums until further notice.

    The communication signed off by the FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza was issued on Thursday 3rd June 2021.  

    The circular is addressed to FUFA Members, Special Interest Groups of FUFA and Stakeholders reads;

    As you are all aware according to statistics from the Ministry of Health there is an upsurge in the number of COVID-19 cases as well as deaths in Uganda.

    FUFA had earlier allowed up to 200 fans to watch FUFA organised and FUFA authorized competitions with strong adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This is no longer tenable in the current situation.

    Therefore, in order to ensure the Health and Safety of players, Technical staff and all stakeholders, all matches shall be played without spectators or fans until further notice.

    As we wind up the 1st Division, 2nd Division and the Uganda Cup there shall be no fans in the stadiums. Teams are further strongly encouraged to limit all other authorized personnel to the bear minimum. SOPs must be strictly observed and COVID-19 vaccination enhanced by football officials and players throughout the country.

    It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

  • Ugandan Football: Every human activity in the modern game requires expertise

    Ugandan Football: Every human activity in the modern game requires expertise

    Ugandan Football is a hospital where the ambulance driver undertakes brain surgery and is applauded by the gallery.

    Modern Day Football is a highly technical practice that requires a lot of human expertise in;

    Governance

    Business

    Sport

    Expertise is developed by experience and/or training. A brain Surgeon is prepared for over 10’s of years and so is a football player, coach, referee, administrator and any professional support staff. 

    Many an occasion, you find individuals without any experience nor training, aggressively providing expert opinion on how to play, coach, officiate (as in refereeing) and administer the game.

    1. A Journalist with hours of experience on air will inform the audience on how Arsene Wenger made mistakes in the team chosen or player signed and will be applauded by the audience.

    2. A football administrator will dismiss a coach over failure to perform when the team is lacking basic needs and get applauds from the gallery.

    3. A football fan will not buy a ticket or replica jersey but expect the referee to give a penalty to his team to win and will be applauded by the gallery

    4. A Referee will make an ‘intended’ mistake that everyone at the match sees but himself and will explain using the 18th Law of the Game- the Common Sense Law.

    5. A player will feel cheated for not being paid even when the club he is playing for does not make any income from his trade and will be applauded by the gallery.

    6. A Coach will tell the media at the post match press conference of how his/her team lost because the referee was the 12th opponent player and will be applauded by the gallery.

    We need to respect that every human activity in the modern game of football requires expertise gained over training and practice.

    It is Our Game, It is Our Country.

    The Author is

    Hon. Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim

    President of FUFA

    CAF Executive

    MP Budiope East

  • COVID-19 Vaccination of FUFA Members and Officials

    COVID-19 Vaccination of FUFA Members and Officials

    FUFA has issued circular No. 1132 with details about the Covid-19 Vaccination of its Members and Officials. The Circular was signed off by FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza

    The Circular in full

    FUFA is committed to working with all stakeholders to save the lives of its stakeholders against the wrath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this spirit, the FUFA Executive approved the recommendation of the FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee to mobilise Government/Ministry of Health (MoH) for all Members and officials of FUFA to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

    In executing this measure, FUFA will have wider opportunity as we seek for opening up football activities with better safety.

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not only cheap (free) but improves one’s body immunity, minimises the effects of the pandemic and can easily be accessed from various facilities throughout the Country.  

    In line with the FIFA, CAF, Ministry of Health and World Health Organisation, FUFA wishes to announce that the MoH has authorised the COVID-19 vaccination of FUFA Members and officials throughout the Country with immediate effect vide ADM:105/309/23.

    All members of the Executive, Standing Committees, Judicial Bodies, Delegates, Secretariat, Clubs at all levels of both Men and Women Leagues are advised to proceed to the nearest COVID-19 vaccination Centre and get vaccinated. Every person shall move along with their FUFA Identification and National Identity Card.

    The COVID-19 vaccination Card shall, with effect from Tuesday 1st June 2021, be a mandatory requirement for participation in any FUFA organised and/or authorised activity or event including but not limited to:

    1. Player registration and licensing for any Competition
    2. Club registration and licensing
    3. Letter of recommendation and secondment
    4. Courses participation
    5. Access to football matches.

    For further inquiries contact Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (+256 700 669 922) the Chairman FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee or Mr. Decolas Kiiza (+256 753 374 898) the FUFA Deputy Chief Executive Officer-Football.

  • Governance: Key decisions; 24th FUFA Exco Meeting held on 30th April, 2021

    Governance: Key decisions; 24th FUFA Exco Meeting held on 30th April, 2021

    Key decisions from the 24th FUFA Exco Meeting held on 30th April, 2021

    The FUFA Executive is a policy making organ that takes key decisions on football matters in Uganda on a quarterly basis.

    On Friday 30th April 2021, the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo chaired the 24th FUFA Executive Meeting in the board room of the Executive House-FUFA Complex in Mengo and key decisions were taken; Here is summary account of what was discussed.

    1-COMPETITIONS

    FUFA Women Super League

    The Champions of the 2021 FUFA Women Super League will represent Uganda in the inaugural CAF Women Club Champions League. The Zonal qualifiers will run from July 17th to 1st August hosted by Kenya to determine the CECAFA representative to the inaugural CAF Women Club League Finals due in November this year.

    Promotion and relegation in the Women football Competitions

    Promotion: Two teams will be promoted from the FUFA Women Elite League 2020/21 season to the FUFA Women Super League.

    Relegation: The bottom team in each group of the FUFA Women Super League 2020/21 season will be relegated to the FUFA Women Elite League.

    Stanbic Uganda Cup

    The Executive Committee confirmed Masindi Stadium, Kitara Region as the venue for the Uganda Cup Finals 47th Edition of Stanbic Uganda cup Final of the 2020/21 season.

    The FUFA Drum 3rd Edition

    The FUFA Drum 3rd edition (2021) shall be played at the FUFA Technical Centre (FTC). Dates will be communicated.

    2021 CECAFA U-20 Women Championship

    FUFA confirmed that it will host the CECAFA U-20 Women Championship that will be hosted at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru. The tentative date for kick off is 22nd August 2021.

    The Executive also appointed FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi as the Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee 2021 CECAFA U-20 Women Championship.

    CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup

    The FUFA Executive approved Uganda will take part in the 2021 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup in Ethiopia. This year’s CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup will be for players falling in the U-23 Category. Uganda will field predominantly the U-20 team that reached the Final of the Total Africa Cup U-20 Tournament in Mauritania. The decision to have the U-23 players for this tournament was reached on during the CECAFA Exco meeting held on 11th March 2021 at Sofitel Hotel, Morocco.

    3rd Division (Regional) Leagues

    FUFA Executive approved that the 3rd Division Leagues to be played across all the 8 FUFA Regions (West Nile, Northern, North East, Eastern, Buganda, Western, Kitara and Kampala). The Competitions Department has been tasked to come up with the appropriate format of play.

    The 2020/21 Women regional League season has been nullified.

    District Leagues

    The 4th and 5th Division Leagues will not be organised this season.

    FUFA Juniors League

    The FUFA U-17 Juniors League 2020/21 season has been nullified.

    The ODILO 3rd Edition

    The ODILO (FUFA Primary Schools Football Competition) 3rd edition (2021) is annulled.

    2nd Division League (FUFA Big League) 2020/2021

    The group leaders in each of the groups and the best team after play offs involving the Runners up and 1st Runners up in each group, be promoted to the 1st Division League 2021/2022 season.

    The last 2 clubs in each group shall be relegated to the third division while the winners of the 3rd division play offs shall be promoted from the 3rd Division.

    Play off pairings:

    • Kampala/Buganda
    • Western/Kitara
    • Northern/West Nile
    • Eastern/North East

    2-NATIONAL TEAMS’ TECHNICAL SET UP

    National A Men’s Team (Uganda Cranes)

    The Executive will continue to review the process and criteria for selecting the technical set up of the National Senior team -Uganda Cranes before any decision is made.  

    Uganda U-23 (Kobs)

    Morley Byekwaso will be the Head coach of the Uganda U-23 team during the 2021 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup in Ethiopia. Simeon Masaba (Assistant Coach), Stephen Kigundu (Goalkeepers’ Coach) and Ivan Ssewanyana (Physiotherapist) are also part of the technical team.

    3 AIRTEL FUFA AWARDS 2021

    The FUFA Exco approved the Airtel FUFA Awards to be organised in December this year since there have been a good number of competitions played in the season.

    4-PRIZE MONEY

    FUFA Executive approved to extend prize monies to Futsal Super League starting with the FUFA Financial Year 2022.

    5- GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2021

    FUFA Executive approved the Eastern Region Football Association to host the 97th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly on 21st August 2021 in Mbale City. The same Assembly will elect the new FUFA President and Executive into office for a four year term.

    6-REGULATIONS

    Club Licensing

    The FUFA Executive approved a handbook of sanctions that will be reference for disciplinary measures for clubs that breach the Club Licensing regulations when the season is in-progress. The handbook also incorporates the CAF Requirements for the representative teams in CAF Competitions. The handbook will be released by the FUFA Competitions Department through Club Licensing Office.  

    Capacity Building

    The FUFA Executive approved a new set of regulations to be followed by various stakeholders who are planning to organise capacity building courses during the ‘New Normal’ era of the Covid-19. Regulations will be released by the FUFA Football Development Department through Human Resource-Capacity Building office.

    7-CHANGE OF CLUB NAMES

    The following Clubs’ requests to change names were approved:

    Busitema University FC to Ateker FC (Soroti, North East Region)

    Bumadu United FC to Bundibugyo United FC (Bundibugyo, Kitara Region)

    Volcop Lion’s FC to Fort City FC (Kabarole, Kitara Region)

    Kiryandongo TC FC to Kiryandongo United FC (Kiryandongo, Kitara Region)

    Pepsi FC to Uganda Pentecostal University FC (Kabarole, Kitara Region)

    The following Clubs’ requests to change names were rejected:

    Asingya FC to Rufura Proline Bwara FC (Kasese, Kitara Region)

    Lugazi Municipal FC to Lugazi Sports Club (Buikwe, Buganda Region)

    Kampala University FC to Lugazi FC (Buikwe, Buganda)

    8- NATIONAL TEAMS’ REGIONAL TOURS 2021

    The National Teams Regional Tours 2021 shall involve the U20 Boys and U20 Girls National Teams.

  • About the Current Uganda Cranes Camp preparing for two AFCON Matches against Burkina Faso and Malawi;

    About the Current Uganda Cranes Camp preparing for two AFCON Matches against Burkina Faso and Malawi;

    All Uganda Cranes Players and Officials are bound by the National Teams’ Code of Conduct formulated by FUFA way back in 2017.

    When players were invited for National team duty two weeks ago for the two AFCON Qualifier matches against Burkina Faso and Malawi; an air ticket was sent (for foreign based players) and a circular dated 4th March 2021 attached reminding players and officials of their obligations in line with National Teams’ Code of Conduct. This applied to the local based players as well.

    Permission for players to miss from camp is only granted by the Head Coach, in this case, player Khalid Aucho had to follow the same procedure. Unfortunately, he did not.

    The decision taken by FUFA against Aucho has no political inclination as claimed by the player and in some media outlets.

    Selection of players for National team duty is on merit.

    Aucho was dismissed from the current Cranes camp but may be considered for future National team engagements.

    FUFA enforces regulations with all its players and officials of the Nine (9) National teams just like it was for goalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba who was asked to leave camp for breaching the Covid-19 regulations when Uganda Cranes was preparing for the CHAN tournament.

    Finally, with the current Covid-19 situation, the health of the entire contingent in camp is paramount. All players were directed to enter camp upon arrival in the country to avoid any possible spread of the virus.

  • FUFA Rewards Hippos team with $ 160,000

    FUFA Rewards Hippos team with $ 160,000

    Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has rewarded the national U-20 team (Hippos) with a total kitty of $ 160,000.

    This was officially announced by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo during a welcome luncheon held at Imperial Golf View Hotel in Entebbe.

    The Hippos were rewarded for finishing second during their debut AFCON U-20 tournament hosted by Mauritania, falling 2-0 to champions Ghana.

    Eng. Magogo was flanked by the first FUFA Vice President Justus Mugisha, Executive Committee members Rogers Mulindwa, Hamid Juma and Chrizestom Kalibala, FUFA Deputy CEO – Football Decolas Kiiza, delegates and other FUFA staff.

    He congratulated the entire team for the remarkable feat, tagging it as work in progress before he announced the $160,000 token.

    Uganda Hippos Captain Garvin Kizito Mugweri hands over an autographed jersey to Eng. Moses Magogo

    ‘As FUFA, we set ourselves a vision to be the number one footballing nation in Africa on and off the field of play. We are very ambitious. We are very happy and not disappointed at all. There is an element of humanity and reality that we must accept. We achieved by qualifying for the first ever AFCON finals tournament. Even the best sprinter in the world started by crawling. For us as FUFA, it remains work in progress as country. As players, you are in the development stages. This should draw more appetite. FUFA has a very proper strategy to achieve the results. I want to appreciate the FUFA Youth development officer Bashir Mutyaba who has overseen that youth competitions are very organized. I also thank the clubs that have given the youth players a chance to play. Football is a process and not an event. The senior team has to play at the FIFA World Cup. To the players, keep your heads high.’ Eng Magogo stated.

    Some of the FUFA Executive Committee members with the Uganda U-20 Team

    FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha was full of praises for the team, hinting to the Tunisian massacre in the semi-final as the most sweet victory.

    ‘I want to thank the players for the special performance while at the AFCON U-20 in Mauritania. You showed class, determination and character. I am very happy and was extremely overwhelmed for the 4-1 victory in the semi-finals against Tunisia. This was the best football played’ Mugisha disclosed.

    Leader of delegation Rogers Mulindwa saluted the efforts of the Federation, all the players, technical team and all the support staff for the collective responsibility.

    FUFA Executive Committee member Rogers Mulindwa shares a light moment with Eng. Moses Magogo

    ‘I thank all the parties at play that joined the hands together to achieve this success. We were a team committed to achieve. The initial target was to get out of the group stages and we made it. We believed in ourselves and made it. In 6 matches played, we won three man of the match accolades, scored 8 goals and conceded 5 with 4 wins. We got the only hattrick of the tournament, the top scorer, silver medals, two players and coach in the CAF team of the tournament and the CAF Fair play award. I also thank the FUFA management led by the president Eng. Moses Magogo and Sunset Hotel in Mauritania where the team was accommodated’ Mulindwa stated.

    The three Uganda U-20 players who won the man of match accolades at AFCON U-20
    Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso

    Head coach Morley Byekwaso lauded the players for the commitment, discipline as he pleaded with FUFA for more opportunities to work with this current crop of players.

    ‘I wish to thank these players for the commitment, discipline and hard work. We learnt a lot of positive things from this tournament. I request FUFA to grant me the opportunity to work with these players in future. To the players, do not go out and mess with life. Respect the elders and learn from the young ones’ Byekwaso stated.

    FUFA has offered the team $160,000 that will be shared amongst all the contingent that made the trip to Mauritania.

    The Uganda U-20 team players who played in Mauritania
  • Total AFCON U20: A lot achieved by the Hippos despite falling to Ghana in the Final

    Total AFCON U20: A lot achieved by the Hippos despite falling to Ghana in the Final

    After a successful display of great football in their maiden tournament, the Uganda U20 team fell to West African giants Ghana in the Final by 2-0 at the Stade Olympique in Nouakchott on Saturday night.

    Despite dominating the opening 15 minutes of the Total AFCON U20 final game, the Hippos conceded in the 21st and 50th minutes of the game with goals coming from Ghanaian captain Daniel Afriyie Barnieh who later named Man of the Match and Player of the Tournament.

    Uganda Hippos forward Richard Basangwa (Yellow) in action

    Tournament top scorer Derrick Kakooza had a chance to hand Uganda the lead inside five minutes of the match but his looping ball went over the bar. Substitute Ivan Bogere and Ivan Eyam also got opportunities inside the goal area but their efforts were not timed well.

    Midfilder Ivan Asaba with the ball during the Final. He was a menace to the Ghanaians as he was tracked from opening whistle till when he went off in the second half.

    ‘We wanted to get an early lead in the first minutes but we failed to convert our chances. The boys lost concentration upfront.  Ghana had the better experience than us. The champions used their chances and took the day’ daid Head Coach Byekwaso during the post-match press conference.

    Striker Derrick Kakooza emerged as the 2021 Total AFCON U20 top scorer with 5 goals. He was rewarded with an accolade.

    Uganda Hippos striker Derrick Kakooza receiving the Top Scorer’s accolade

    Awards

    The Hippos won the Tournament Fair Play Award.

    Left Back Aziizi Kayondo and Derrick Kakooza were named in the team of the Tournament while Head coach Byekwaso was picked as the best coach of the Tournament.

    ‘I am privileged to win the top scorer’s accolade, it wasn’t my own effort but for the whole team. I thank God for it and it has given me the courage to work hard for the best in my career’ said Derrick Kakooza after receiving the Top Scorer’s Award

    The Hippos ended the tournament with 8 goals scored and conceding 5 from the 6 games played.

    Uganda Hippos Captain Gavin Kizito receiving the Fair Play Award

    Isma Mugulusi (shirt 10), Aziizi Kayondo (shirt 3) and Derrick Kakooza (shirt 20) are the three players that managed to win Man of the Match accolade against Mozambique, Mauritania and Tunisia respectively.

    Uganda Hippos XI that started against Ghana in the Final; Back Row-L-R: Jack Komakech, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Kenneth Semakula, Derrick Kakooza, and captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri. Front Row: Aziizi Kayondo, Steven Sserwadda, Ivan Asaba, Isma Mugulusi and Bobosi Byaruhanga.
  • Total AFCON U20 Final: Uganda Hippos Coach; The Team is calm and ready for Ghana

    Total AFCON U20 Final: Uganda Hippos Coach; The Team is calm and ready for Ghana

    The 2021 AFCON U20 Tournament in Mauritania will climax on Saturday night (11pm EAT) with the Uganda Hippos battling Ghana in the historical final at the Olympique Stadium in Nouakchott.

    While at the Pre-Match Press Conference, Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso believes it is time for his team to accomplish the mission by winning the trophy.

    ‘It has been a long journey to the final. We have gone through many challenges but we remained strong and victorious. Calmness is the key to our victories since the beginning and we have no pressure. We shall only be fighting to become champions. Ghana is good but we believe in ourselves and ready to challenge them. Like we have been playing in the previous games, we shall bring out what we are best at doing naturally. We expect a very tough match but it is for us to accomplish our mission by winning the trophy’ said Byekwaso.

    Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso at the Pre-Match Press Conference on Friday

    ‘We are not under pressure. We know that if we are fit, we can take on any challenge that comes our way. We are fit and ready to face Ghana. We believe in our selves and we shall come out as victors in the final.’ noted Hippos captain Gavin Kizito during the Pre-Match Press Conference

    Hippos captain Gavin Kizito at the Pre-Match Press Conference

    The match will be played at 8:00pm (11:00pm E.A.T)

    Road to the Final

    Group A Stage matches

    Uganda 2-0 Mozambique

    Cameroon 0-1 Uganda

    Mauritania 1-2 Uganda

    Quarterfinals

    Uganda 0(5)-0(3) Burkina Faso.

    Semifinals

    Uganda 4-1 Tunisia

    Uganda U20 striker Derrick Kakooza is the leading top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals followed by Ghanaian Preciuos Boah with 3 goals.

  • AFCON U20: Uganda 4-1 Tunisia, Kakooza nets hattrick as Hippos storm final with a majestic result

    AFCON U20: Uganda 4-1 Tunisia, Kakooza nets hattrick as Hippos storm final with a majestic result

    Debutants Uganda U20 Team- the Hippos are in the final of the Total AFCON U20 after a well drilled 4-1 win over Tunisia 4-1 at Stade Cheikha Ould Boïdiya in Mauritania.

    Striker Derrick Kakooza recorded the first hattrick of the tournament hitting the back of the net in the 36th, 50th and 73rd minutes.  

    Before the final Head coach Morley Byekwaso has said a the Pre-mathc Press Conference that winning had become part of his teams DNA while FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo asked the players to go and eat Grass for 90 minutes against Tunisia.

    The youngsters, many of them (20 out of 25 products of the FUFA Juniors League started in 2015) listened to the two statements very well on Sunday ahead of the semifinal clash.

    Uganda Hippos starting Lineup: Back Row; Jack Komakeck, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Kenneth Semakula, Derrick Kakooza and Captain Gavin Kizito. Front Row; Aziizi Kayondo, Steven Sserwadda, Isma Mugulusi, Najib Yiga and Bobosi Byaruhanga

    Police FC’s Derrick Kakooza netted a hat-trick-the first if the entire tournament while Richard Basangwa gave the Hippos the early lead on five minutes for the match to end 4-1 as Uganda stormed the final to face Ghana who ejected Gambia 1-0 in the other semifinal.

    • Do you watt to try our celebrations? Goal scorers Derrick Kakooza (left) and Richard Basangwa celebrating

    It will be a repeat of the 1978 Nations Cup Final when the two teams faced off but at senior level. Ghana won 2-0 in Kumasi. This time round the final is in a different country and for a junior tournament.

    • Except for the game against Cameroon where they lost 1-0, the Hippos have been enjoying such moments in every game they have played in Mauritania. The celebration in this photo is from Monday’s 4-1 semifinal win over Tunisia

    The match had enough highlights ranging from Basangwa’s early goal to Isma Mugulusi’s well struck shot that hit the crossbar just before halftime.  The first half three goals including Tunisia’s strike but the attention was on how Basangwa coolly controlled the ball in the penalty area for Uganda’s opener before he set up Derrick Kakooza for his first of the three goals on the night.

    Tunisia Defender Adam Karim Benlamine pulled back the consolation goal in the 39th minute. 

    Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso was forced to make a first-half substitution after midfielder Najib Yiga suffered a groin injury. He was replaced by Ivan Bogere.

    Halftime ended 2-1 in favour of Uganda.

    After the break, Tunisia piled a lot of pressure on Hippos with raid after raid but the Hippos never lost their shape in team formation and play. Bobosi Byaruhanga who was at CHAN in Cameoroon this year but never played in the tournament, bright out all the experience he learnt during the camp with a million dollar long range pass over the Tunisian defence to spot out Kakooza who headed over goalkeeper Damergy for Uganda to lead 3-1.  At this stage Uganda took control of the game but were yearning for more on the night as they also stuck to their game plan that has characterized their style of play with accurate passing, relentless pressing, never give up attitude and desire to win.

    Defender Kenneth SSemakula made a monster clearance off the line in the second half.

    The Hippos goal poacher Kakooza was named Man of the Match and he is the leading top scorer of the tournament with five goals followed by Ghanaian Percious Boah with three goals.

    Kakooza was named Total Man of the Match.

    • Derrick Kakooza with his Man of the Match accolade

    ‘We spent days focusing on how to stop the Tunisians. It was easy for us but God was on our side. We tried to prevent them from possessing the ball. It was challenging to play against one of the Africa strongest teams but our game plan worked for us’ said Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso

    Uganda Hippos will play Ghana in the Final on Saturday 6th March 2021 at the Stade Olympque in Nouakchott.

    This is the third time both teams are meeting in U20 competition. They played each other in the AFCON U20 Qualifiers in 2012 where the Hippos won 3-1 at home before losing 3-0 away in Ghana during the 2nd leg.

    MAIN PHOTO: Derrick Kakooza celebrating his first goal of the day against Tunisia

  • Byekwaso: Let us plan for another good show as Hippos return to action for semifinal clash with Tunisia

    Byekwaso: Let us plan for another good show as Hippos return to action for semifinal clash with Tunisia

    The history makers Uganda U20 TeamHippos will be back in action on Monday night for the semifinal match against Tunisia at the ongoing Total AFCON U20 tournament in Mauritania.

    Uganda is playing at the tournament for the first time and the Hippos have continued to showcase resilience, strong character and beautiful football for good results.

    Another task awaits the Hippos at the next stage after ejecting Burkina Faso on penalties in the Quarterfinals.

    While attending the Pre-Match Press Conference on Sunday afternoon, the Hippos head Coach Morley Byekwaso made it clear that he wants winning to be part of his players’ DNA as he looks forward to the last four stage clash against the North African opponents.

    ‘We have come a long way to this stage. Believing in ourselves and working together as a team has been key to our progress. Winning games at this level has now become part of our DNA and we hope to put up a strong fight against Tunisia to qualify for the final‘ said Byekwaso.

    Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso during the Pre Match Press Conference on Sunday

    ‘Any team at this level can win the championship. We respect our opponents but we are more than ready to face any strong side on the continent’ added Byekwaso.

    The Team Captain Garvin Kizito Mugweri called on his teammates to continue with the fight.

    ‘We want to keep playing well as we continue making history. We are a strong force because of the bonding in the team. The next match is very important as we want to perform well’ noted Kizito who has grown through the ranks starting with the Uganda U17 team.

    Tunisia eliminated Morocco in the quarterfinals on penalties just like the Hippos did against Burkina Faso.

    Uganda Hippos has scored 4 goals in their match to the Semifinals and conceded 2 goals so far while Tunisia has netted 3 goals and let in 2 goals since the beginning of the tournament.

    The match will be played at Stade de Olympique in Nouakchott on Moday 1st March 2021 at 7:30pm (10:30pm E.A.T)

  • AFCON U17: Uganda’s final 25 man Squad named

    AFCON U17: Uganda’s final 25 man Squad named

    The Uganda Cubs (U-17) National Team head Coach Hamza Lutalo has named the final 25 man squad for the Total U-17 AFCON that will be played between 13th-31st March in Morocco.

    The Cubs were pooled in group A in the draws of the tourney held on Wednesday. They will face off with Morocco, Ivory Coast and Zambia

    The contingent will fly out today at 3pm aboard Ethiopian Airways.

    FUFA Executive Committee Member Agnes Mugena is the Leader of Delegation for the period the team will camp in Morocco before they get into the CAF designated facilities.

    Rogers Byamukama-another Executive Member will take over the roles of Leader of Delegation when the tournament proper kicks off.
    Full Contingent

    Leader of Delegation: Agnes Mugena

    Head Coach: Hamuza Lutalo

    Assistant Coach:Ssenyondo Brian

    Goalkeeper coach: Kiberu Mubarak

    Team Manager: Mutyaba Bashir

    Team Doctor: Lule Micheal

    Media Officer: Bwanika Lawrence

    Kits Manager: Damba Noah Veron

    Goalkeepers
    Magada Abdu (Busoga United FC JT), Mwebe Henry (Express FC JT), Oyirwoth Humphrey (Express FC JT), Kamya Shamulan (Bright Stars FC JT)

    Defenders
    Mulema Vincent (Kyetume FC JT), Mungufeni Yabezi (Matete Comprehensive Seed), Ibrahim Juma (KCCA FC SA), Luyima Enock (Volf  SA), Nsambu Lloyd Tendo (Metz FC U17, France), Gava Peter (Express FC JT), Madoi Ronald (Wakiso Giants FC JT), Mukisa Simon (KCCA FC SA)

    Midfielders
    Irinimbabazi Ivan (Bright Stars FC JT),Jemba Abudshakur Ramsey (Isra SA), Alafi Ceasor (Matete Comprehensive Seed), Mutyaba Travis (Vipers SC JT), Ssekajugo Elvis (Bright Stars FC JT), Mutebi Hakim (St Henrys College-Kitovu), Mwanje Elvis Eddy (KCCA FC SA)

    Forwards
    Magogo Shafiq (KCCA FC SA), Mubiru Hassan (Express FC JT), Mawa Oscar (KCCA FC SA), Jumbe Fahad (Vipers SC JT), Bugembe Issa (Bright Stars FC JT), Mukiibi Marvin (Wakiso Giants FC).


  • AFCON U20: Uganda Hippos through to semifinals, edge closer to the UGX 740M winning cash prize staked by FUFA

    AFCON U20: Uganda Hippos through to semifinals, edge closer to the UGX 740M winning cash prize staked by FUFA

    The Uganda U20 National Team is through to the semifinals at the ongoing Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Mauritania.

    The Hippos overcame Burkina Faso in the quarter finals on Thursday on kicks from the penalty mark after normal time had ended in a barren stalemate.

    A closely contested encounter saw no goals produced between the two sides both in normal time of 90 minutes and 30minutes of extra time. The two sets of players were matched pound for pound befor the match was decided on penalties.

    The result means that the youngsters are edging closer to the USD 200,000 (UGX740M) winning cash prize promised by FUFA if they win the tournament.

    Uganda Hippos players celebrating after defeating Burkina Faso in Quaterfinals

    The Hippos nick name for Uganda U-20 team defended resiliently and worked as a unit in the other departments to make sure victory was finally delivered.

    Goalkeeper Jack Komakech was the hero in the penalty shoot out when he saved Yacoub’s kick from the spot-the first attempt for the Burkinabes.

    For Uganda, all the players that were selected converted their efforts to help the team win 5-3.

    Derrick Kakooza who has scored two goals at the tournament so far led the way sending the goalkeeper the wrong.

    Steven Serwadda (Yellow) in action

    He was followed by Joseph Kizza Bukenya then Najib Yiga and Ivan Bogere who all came on as substitutes.

    Defender Kenneth Ssemakula did the icing on the cake with the final take that crawled past the Burkinabe goalkeeper.

    Richard Basangwa taking on Burkina Faso defender

    Uganda will now face the winner between Tunisia and Morocco in the semifinals.

    Uganda Hippos Team that started against Burkina Faso (L-R: Back Row- Jack Komakech, Musa Ramathan, Richard Basangwa, Sam Ssenyonjo, Kenneth Semakula and Gavin Kizito (C), Front Row- Azizi Kayondo, Isma Mugulusi, Steven Sserwadda, Ivan Asaba and Bobosi Byaruhanga
  • ‘We are like wounded lions’ – Byekwaso sends message to Uganda’s next opponent Burkina Faso

    ‘We are like wounded lions’ – Byekwaso sends message to Uganda’s next opponent Burkina Faso

    Uganda Hippos will play their first-ever quarterfinal match at the ongoing AFCON U20 tournament in Mauritania against west African opposition Burkina Faso on Thursday evening.

    The Hippos tactician Morley Byekwaso believes his players have gone through enough tests playing against the hosts Mauritania, Mozambique and Cameroon during the Group stage.

    While attending the Pre- Match Press Conference at the Stade Cheikha Boidiya on Wednesday, Byekwaso stated that his team has no pressure and has played under all situations during the group matches.

    He further promised an interesting and attacking style of football from his team.

    ‘Burkina Faso is a strong Team but we have gone through all the tests and challenges in our group games. We are facing a new team that is physical but we are like a wounded lion. We have lost and won, there is nothing to lose but to give out what we are naturally capable of doing. It will be an interesting match for both teams. We shall play more attacking football to have the best results from the match.’ Said Byekwaso.

    Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso during the Pre-Match Press Conference

    Uganda Hippos finished Group A in the second place with 6 points from 3 matches (Uganda Hippos 2-0 Mozambique, Cameroon 1-0 Uganda Hippos and Mauritania 1-2 Uganda Hippos) while Burkina Faso won 2 matches and drew 1 in the three games played in group B.

    The winner between Uganda Hippos and Burkina Faso will meet the winner between Morocco and Tunisia in the semifinals.

  • Uganda Cubs pitted against hosts Morocco, Ivory Coast and Zambia

    Uganda Cubs pitted against hosts Morocco, Ivory Coast and Zambia

    Uganda U17 National Team (The Uganda Cubs) have been pooled in group A in the draws of the Total Africa U17 Cup of Nations held on Wednesday.

    FUFA was represented by Executive Commitee Member Rogers Mulindwa who was designated by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo.

    Mulindwa is also in Mauritania as the Leader of Delegation for Uganda U20 team.

    Uganda has been pitted against hosts Morocco, Ivory Coast and Zambia in the same group for the Total AFCON U17 in Morocco.

    The tournament that will for the first time have 12 teams is slated to take place from March 6th to 31st.

    Coach Hamza Lutalo is optimistic that boys will be able to put up good performance against the aforementioned teams.

    ‘We are ready to face the teams that are in our group. As the technical team, we preparing the boys to face any kind of opposition because our target is to advance past the group stage’ said Lutalo.

    Uganda Cubs Head Coach Hamza Lutalo

    This is the second time that Uganda is playing this Championship at the Finals. The maiden appearance came in 2018 in Tanzania.

    To qualify for the 2021 edition, Uganda emerged Champions in the CECAFA Zonal qualifiers last year in Rwanda.

    The team is currently in residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.