FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: Cranes History

  • Uganda Cranes resume training ahead of South Sudan return leg

    Uganda Cranes resume training ahead of South Sudan return leg

    TOTAL CHAN KENYA CHAMPIONSHIPS 2018:
    1ST ROUND, Return Leg: Uganda Cranes Vs South Sudan

    Saturday, 22nd July 2017

    At the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo – Kampala

    The Uganda Cranes team on Sunday afternoon returned to training at the Star Times stadium in Lugogo.

    This was a day after their successful return from South Sudan where they drew goal-less during the opening leg of the Total CHAN first round qualifier played at the Juba stadium on Friday evening.

    All the players who played in the first match reported for the training session that lasted for 2 hours.

    Those who stayed backed like goalkeeper Tom Ikara, Moses Waiswa, Simon Sserunkuma and Nicholas Kasozi also joined the training session.

    Uganda Cranes training at Lugogo on Sunday evening

    Team captain Geofrey Sserunkuma promised a better display during the return leg having missed many goal scoring opportunities away on Friday.

    “We missed a lot of chances in the first leg. We are focused to better our efforts in the return leg and qualify” Sserunkuma said.

    Uganda Cranes go through the paces at the Star Times stadium, Lugogo

    The return leg will be played on Saturday, 22nd July 2017 at the Star Times stadium, Lugogo.

    On Monday, the training resumes at the same venue starting at 4 p.m.

    Players who took part in the training session on Sunday:

    Goalkeepers: Ismael Watenga, Ken Saidi , Tom Ikara

    Outfield players: Nico Wakiro Wadada, Paul Musamali, Brian Majwega), Savio Kabugo, Timothy Awany, Bernard Muwanga, Milton Karisa, Tom Masiko, Muzamir Mutyaba, Paul Mucureezi, Geofrey Sserunkuma (Captain), Derrick Nsibambi, Isaac Muleme, John Adriko, Deus Bukenya, Moses Waiswa, Nicholas Kasozi and Shafiq Kagimu

  • Uganda Cranes, Onyango crowned with USPA top accolades

    Uganda Cranes, Onyango crowned with USPA top accolades

    Uganda Cranes and team captain Dennis Onyango were named the 2016 team of the year and best sports personality respectively by the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) at a glamorous awards and dinner ceremony held at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala on Friday night.

    Onyango, who had earlier received his award for the best footballer of the year, beat athlete David Emong and rugby player Phillip Wokorach to the top gong.

    Uganda Cranes’ return to the AFCON finals after 39 years and the splendid form in the year, 2016 were the reasons fronted for the top team award.

    FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo was accompanied by a strong team that also had the 3rd VP Dennis Mbidde, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Edgar Watson, Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu, FUFA marketing director Esther Musoke, Communications director Ahmed Hussein, personal assistant to the office of the president Sumaya Kiwanuka.

    The Guest of honor at the ‘Made of Uganda’ theme night was the first son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

    General Muhoozi Kainerugaba hands over the accolade to goalkeeper Dennis Onyango

    General Kainerugaba lauded the national team and Onyango for maintaining the status quo.

    “Our return to the Africa Cup of Nations after like 38 years was a result of unquestionable commitment and hard work. I urge you to maintain” Kainerugaba stated.

    In acknowledgement speech, Onyango hinted on the plat form presented to him by Uganda Cranes and his club Mamelodi Sundowns to play football in good and trying moments.

    He sent a big token of appreciation to all his friends and family who have also uplifted him in low moments.

    “I have not won these awards alone. I thank the Uganda Cranes and Mamelodi Sundowns for the opportunity presented to me. In a special way, i thank my friends and family who have always stood by me in good and bad moments” he said in a brief speech.

    Onyango was accompanied by fellow Uganda Cranes teammate and vice captain of the team, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda alongside retired Ex-international, Simeon Masaba.

    Uganda Cranes captain Dennis Onyango receives his footballer of the year accolade

    The event was also graced by leaders from the other sports federations and associations, National Council of Sports and sponsors’ representatives.

    Other sporting disciplines were also rewarded with beautiful accolades.

    FUFA partners Nile Breweries Limited under the flagship brand, Nile Special were the event main sponsors at the 500 guest list event.

  • Total CHAN 2018-Kenya: Uganda Cranes depart for South Sudan with high expectations

    Total CHAN 2018-Kenya: Uganda Cranes depart for South Sudan with high expectations

    TOTAL CHAMPIONSHIP OF AFRICAN NATIONS QUALIFIERS (1ST ROUND, 1ST LEG):

    14th July 2017 at Juba Stadium, Juba.

    South Sudan Vs Uganda (Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m)

    A 24 man delegation for Uganda Cranes left Entebbe International Airport on Thursday morning ahead of the Total CHAN first round qualifier against South Sudan in Juba city.

    FUFA Executive Committee member, Chris Kalibala led the delegation that has 18 players and 6 officials.

    FUFA Executive Committee member, Chris Kalibala at Entebbe International Airport on Thursday morning. Kalibala is the Leader of Delegation to South Sudan

    Team captain Geofrey Sserunkuma promised a spirited showing away from home.

    “Having trained as a team for sometime, i am confident we shall play collectively and registered a positive victory” Sserunkuma told www.fufa.co.ug.

    Geofrey Sserunkuma is the team captain

    The match will be broadcast live on 102.1 FUFA f.m.

    The Squad of 18 players to South Sudan

    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga, Ken Saidi

    Defenders: Wadada Nico Wakiro, Timothy Awanyi, Muwanga Bernard, Kabugo Savio, Musamali Paul and Adiriko John

    Midfielders: Deus Bukenya, Muzamil Mutyaba, Tom Masiko, Muleme Isaac, Majwega Brian, Kagimu Shafiq

    Strikers: Geofrey Serunkuma, Paul Mucurezi, Derrick Nsibambi, Kariisa Milton

    Officials:

    Leader of Delegation: Chris Kalibala

    Head coach: Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic

    Assistant coach: Moses Basena

    Goalkeeping coach: Fred Kajoba

    Medical team: Ronald Kisolo and Ivan Ssewanyana

    Media Officer: Lawrence Bwanika

     

  • Sserunkuma: I welcome the Captain’s role, I’m not retiring soon

    Sserunkuma: I welcome the Captain’s role, I’m not retiring soon

    Sserunkuma’s Goals for the 2016/17 season

    • AUPL-21 goals (Top scorer) playing for KCCA FC (Champions)
    • CAF Club Competitions- 5 goals 
    • Uganda Cup-4 goals
    • National Team- 1 goal
    • FUFA Super Cup- 1 goal

    He is a reserved player both on and off the pitch. You will hardly hear a word from him even when he scores a goal for his club.

    His trademark goal celebrations in the past decade have seen him spreading his hands at his former clubs and the latest style at KCCA FC with his right hand over his head.

    The magnificent goal poacher has been handed an armband to captain the Uganda Cranes team vying for a position in the 2018 Total Championship of African Nations (CHAN) to be hosted by neighboring Kenya.

    Sserunkuma welcomed the new role handed to him by Uganda Cranes coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic. He will be deputized by two players Nico Wadada (Vipers SC) and Bernard Muwanga (Sc Villa Jogoo) who are much junior to him in many aspects like age, caps and experience amassed at international level.

    Wadada played his first senior game for Cranes against Comoros in 2016 while Muwanga made his debut during the 2015 CEACAF Senior Challenge cup in Ethiopia.

    ‘I welcome the role given to me by the coach, his technical team and FUFA. I thank God for this because I have been at the team where younger players came and wore the armband. It is my time now to lead the team but the coach knows why he selected’ said Sserunkuma

    ‘I will show my excitement on the pitch by scoring more goals for my country’

    While speaking to www.fufa.co.ug on the selection of Sserunkuma, the head coach said that the KCCA FC Striker deserves respect from everyone because of his performance and discipline. His maturity, superiority and ability to lead others gave him an edge over the rest of the players in the team.

    ‘Sserunkuma is like old wine which gets better by age. He has had a superb season scoring more than thirty goals. I have chosen him as the captain because young players can learn from him and can also act as the coach’s extended arm in the field of play’ added the historic Micho who led Uganda Cranes to their first ever Nations cup appearance in 39 years.

    The tested and proven goal poacher has scored vital goals for both his club and Country, not forgetting the solitary strike against Cape Verde in Praia and the CAF Champions league against Premeiro Du Agosto of Angola, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, Rivers United of Nigeria and also Al Masry of Egypt.

    ‘I have no plans of retiring from active football. I will continue playing until my body gets worn out’ said Sserunkuma who scored 32 goals for his club last season.
    ‘I always make use of my free time to keep fit and relax. Discipline is also key in modern football circles’ added Serunkuma who was named the MVP at his club last season.

    The fruitful forward has featured for several clubs in Uganda; Horizon FC, Police FC, Nalubaale FC, Lweza FC and currently with KCCA FC while across borders he has played for St George of Ethiopia Bloemfontein Celtics, Bidvest Wits and Vasco Da Gama all South African clubs.

    With 32 goals written to his name this season, the proven finisher seems still hungry for more playing time on the pitch until the body demands no more.

     

     

     

  • Total CHAN 2018 Kenya Qualifiers: Full house on Uganda Cranes’ opening day training session

    Total CHAN 2018 Kenya Qualifiers: Full house on Uganda Cranes’ opening day training session

    Total CHAN 2018 Kenya Qualifiers

    14th July 2017 at Juba Stadium, Juba.

    South Sudan Vs Uganda (Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m)

    Preparations for the Total Africa Nations (CHAN) qualifiers campaign kicked off on a high note with all players summoned reporting on the opening day of non residential training at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

    Twenty five players were part of the evening two hours training session under the watchful eye of Serbian coach Sredojevic ‘Micho’ Milutin assisted by Moses Basena and Fred Kajoba the Goalkeeping coach.

    Nico Wadada dribbles towards Martin Kiiza

    The coach applauded the responses of the players during first training session after various engagements from the CAF Confederation Cup by the KCCA players and the Western regional tour.

    “I am satisfied by the way players are conducting themselves because it is not easy to come from such a tight competitive season but I need to appreciate them for the hard work commitment and dedication exhibited during today’s session” said Micho.

    Team resumes training on Tuesday evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

    Players who attended training

    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga, Tom Ikara and Ken Saidi.

    Defenders: Wadada Nico Wakiro, Timothy Awanyi, Muwanga Bernard, Kabugo Savio, Toha Rashid, Musamali Paul and Adriko John.

    Midfielders: Deus Bukenya, Nicholas Kasozi,  Muzamil Mutyaba, Tom Masiko, Simon Serunkuma, Paul Mucureezi, Muleme Isaac, Kizza Martin, Majwega Brian and Kagimu Shafiq.

    Strikers: Geofrey Serunkuma, Derrick Nsibambi, Nelson Sekantuka, Shaban Muhammad and Kariisa Milton.

  • Uganda Cranes Regional Tours 2017: Final teams for the national team, Western Select released

    Uganda Cranes Regional Tours 2017: Final teams for the national team, Western Select released

    Uganda Cranes national regional tours 2017

    • Western Select Vs Uganda Cranes (Sat, 8th July 2017)
    • Kabale Municipal Stadium (4 p.m)

    The Uganda Cranes and Western Region Select teams due to lock horns at the Kabale Municipal Stadium, have been released.

    Uganda Cranes’ head  Milutin Sredejovic and his counterpart for the Western region select team, Vialli Bianomugisha have each named formidable teams.

    The match, which is a build up for the up coming CHAN 2018 qualifiers will be officiated by Paul Turyamureeba as center referee.

    The regional tours are jointly sponsored by Nile Breweries and Airtel Uganda Limited.

    A big crowd is expected at Kabale Municipal Stadium.

    Western Region Select XI:

    Sula Matovu (G.K), Zaid Byekwaso, Umar Kato, Bashir Babu, Johnson Turinawe, Cleophus Fiat, Nasir Saddam, Yusuf Abato, Hassan Kakuru, Sadat Nsubuga, Alex Mandela

    Subs:

    Denis Otim (G.K), Bruce Rubanza, Michael Muhangi, Joseph Akandwanaho, Brian Owomugisha, Michael Baseme, Alex Twinamisoko

    Head coach: Vialli Bianomugisha

    Uganda Cranes XI: Ismael Watenga (G.K), Nico Wakiro Wadada, Brian Majwega, Bernard Muwanga, Rashid Toha,  Nicholas Kasozi, Milton Karisa, Tom Masiko, Nelson Senkatuka, Shaban Muhammad, Erisa Ssekisambu

    Uganda Cranes team 2: Saidi Keni (G.K), Lawrence Bukenya, John Adriko, Savio Kabugo, Bassey Methiodius, Julius Malingumu, Shafik Kagimu, Solomon Okwalinga, Simon Sserunkuma, Deus Bukenya, Martin Kiiza

    Sub: Tom Ikarah

    Head coach: Milutin Sredejovic

    Match Officials:

    Center Referee: Paul Turyamureeba

    1st Assistant Referee: Emmy Kakooza

    2nd Assistant Referee: Gilbert Ngendo

    4th Official: Moses Kanyarutokye

    Match coordinator: Hajji Abbasi Ssendyowa

  • Regional Tours 2017: Uganda Cranes conduct final training session in Kabale, set for action

    Regional Tours 2017: Uganda Cranes conduct final training session in Kabale, set for action

    UGANDA CRANES REGIONAL TOURS 2017:

    Saturday, 8th July 2017:

    Western Region Vs Uganda Cranes

    Kabale Municipal Stadium (4 p.m) – Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

    The Uganda Cranes players conducted a final training session at the Kabale Municipal Stadium on Friday evening.

    Led by the head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic, together with his assistants Moses Basena and Fred Kajoba (goalkeeping coach), all the 23 players trained well during the late evening session well attended by enthusiastic football lovers.

    The team is set to take on the Western region select team this Saturday at the Kabale Municipal Stadium.

    Uganda Cranes goalkeepers with the goalkeeping coach, Fred Kajoba

    Like earlier communicated,  the two sets of players will wear black armbands in honour of the departed football administrators John Ssebaana Kizito (former FUFA Chairman) and Former Treasurer Michael Okiror.

    Both veteran football administrators passed away on Monday this week.

    Players walk to the field of play

    There will be a moment of silence in honour of the work done by the gallant football administrators in this country.

    The regional tours are jointly sponsored by Airtel Uganda Limited and Nile Breweries Limited under the Nile Special brand.

    A section of fans at the Kabale Municipal stadium watching the Uganda Cranes final training session on Saturday

    The Uganda Cranes team in Kabale:

    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga (Vipers), Saidi Keni (Proline), Tom Ikara (Kirinya/Jinja S.S)
    Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers), Deus Bukenya (Vipers),  Nicholas Kasozi (Synergy), John Adriko (SC Villa), Savio Kabugo (Proline), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka), Brian Majwega (KCCA FC)
    Central Midfielders: Bukenya Lawrence (KCCA FC),  Method Bassey (Mbarara), Shafiq Kagimu (URA),  Tom Matisko (KCCA)
    Attacking Midfielders: Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Simon Sserunkuma (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers),
    Strikers:  Nelson Senkatuka (Proline),  Shaban Mohamed (Onduparaka), Julius Malingumu (The Saints), Solomon Okwalinga (Synergy)
  • National regional Tours 2017: Midfielder Kagimu upbeat ahead of Western tour

    National regional Tours 2017: Midfielder Kagimu upbeat ahead of Western tour

    The Uganda Cranes regional Tours 2017:

    Western Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes

    8th July 2017

    At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry

    Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

    As days draw closer to the Western region tour and CHAN 2018 Kenya qualifiers, the Uganda Cranes coach Sredejovic ‘Micho’ Milutin  has stepped up the team’s training with two sessions on Wednesday both in the morning and evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

    Midfielder Shafik Kagimu is among the players summoned and training with the team ahead of the triple engagements on July 8th, 14th and 22nd 2017.

    Uganda Cranes players during the training session at Mandela National Stadium

    In an exclusive interview with www.fufa.co.ug, Kagimu expressed his delight for the call up to the National side and vowed to give in the best of his ability to impress the coach.

    Being part of the National team is a proud moment .Any footballer in the world would always wish to don the National team jersey. This is a great opportunity for my career

    The stylish URA midfielder promised never to give up as he steps up in his efforts for the coach and technical team to keep considering him for the upcoming engagements.

    Players in the vital stretching drills at Namboole on Wednesday afternoon

    Training resumes on Thursday evening at Namboole before the team departs for Kabale on Friday morning.

    The Uganda Cranes Tours are sponsored by Airtel and Nile Special.

    The full squad:
    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga (Vipers), Saidi Keni (Proline), Tom Ikara (Kirinya/Jinja S.S)
    Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers), Deus Bukenya (Vipers),  John Adriko(SC Villa), Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Savio Kabugo (Proline), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka)
    Midfielders: Nicholas Kasozi (Synergy), Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Simon Sserunkuma (SC Villa)
    Forwards: Milton Karisa (Vipers), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers), Nelson Senkatuka (Proline), Vitalis Tabu (SC Villa), Method Bassey (Mbarara), Shaban Mohamed (Onduparaka), Julius Malingumu (The Saints), Solomon Okwalinga (Synergy), Brian Majwega (KCCA), Tom Matisko (KCCA)
    Foreign based players:
    Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Dennis Iguma and Murushid Jjuuko.
  • Uganda Cranes goalkeeping coach Kajoba delighted with the development of young goalies

    Uganda Cranes goalkeeping coach Kajoba delighted with the development of young goalies

    The Uganda Cranes regional Tours 2017:

    Western Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes

    8th July 2017

    At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry

    Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

    On Tuesday evening, the Uganda Cranes covered day four of non residential training ahead the Western Region Ttour and CHAN 2018 Kenya qualifiers.

    The training session was conducted after a heavy downpour at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole in Kampala.

    Long serving goalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba expressed his delight about the development of young goalkeepers who were summoned for national duty.

    Ismael Watenga, Ikara Tom and Said Keni  are the three goalkeepers in training.

    The 3 goalkeepers in training : Tom Ikara, Saidi Keni and Ismail Watenga

    Whereas Watenga has worked under him for a long time, he also saluted Ikara and Saidi whom he praised for acclimatizing at a high rate .

    “I am happy with the rate at which the young players especially goal keepers are developing. They are always eager to learn and also respond to instructions and anyone can realise the difference from the time we started training” said Kajjoba

    Team resumes training on Wednesday in the morning at 10 am and later in the evening at 4 pm with all the sessions at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

    The Uganda Cranes players in training on Tuesday afternoon at Namboole
    The full squad:
    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga (Vipers), Saidi Keni (Proline), Tom Ikara (Kirinya/Jinja S.S)
    Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers), Deus Bukenya (Vipers),  John Adiriko(SC Villa), Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Savio Kabugo (Proline), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka)
    Midfielders: Nicholas Kasozi Nicholas (Synergy), Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Simon Sserunkuma (SC Villa)
    Forwards: Milton Karisa (Vipers), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers), Nelson Senkatuka (Proline), Vitalis Tabu (SC Villa), Method Bassey (Mbarara), Shaban Mohamed (Onduparaka), Julius Malingumu (The Saints), Solomon Okwalinga (Synergy), Brian Majwega (KCCA)
    Foreign based players:
    Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Dennis Iguma and Murushid Jjuuko
  • Uganda Cranes intensify preparations ahead of regional tour and CHAN 2018 qualifiers

    Uganda Cranes intensify preparations ahead of regional tour and CHAN 2018 qualifiers

    The Uganda Cranes players on Monday conducted a double training session.

    This was day three of training ahead of the Western Region Tour and CHAN 2018 Kenya qualifiers.

    Players go through the paces under the keen eye of coach Micho

    The team had a first training session at 9 am and later at 5 pm at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole with 24 players in attendance.

    Assistant captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda applauded fellow players especially the local based for morale and commitment displayed during the sessions conducted so far.

    Uganda Cranes in training on Monday

    “I delighted for the hard work, commitment and morale exhibited by young players playing at home.I believe they will give good results during their CHAN 2018 qualifiers against South Sudan”  Said Wasswa

    Training resumes on Tuesday evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

  • Micho names Uganda Cranes team for the Western region trip

    Micho names Uganda Cranes team for the Western region trip

    The Uganda Cranes regional tours 2017:

    Western Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes

    8th July 2017

    At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry

    Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

    Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin Sredejovic has released a team of 25 players for the Western region tour.

    Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.

    ‘Training commences on Saturday 9 am at Mandela National Stadium. KCCA FC players have been left out because of their Confederation Cup engagement with their Club until the 7th July after the game against Club Africain. Some foreign based players have been summoned yo train with the team to prepare them for the World Cup qualifiers against Egypt in August’ Micho disclosed to www.fufa.co.ug

    The last time the Uganda Cranes traveled on the regional tour was away to Kitara region at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal.

    The national team won comfortably 3-1 with the goals coming from Emmanuel Okwi (2) and Nelson Senkatuka.

    The consolation for the home side was scored by Beckam Musoki in the second half.

    A record mammoth crowd watched the game also graced by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo and many delegates.

    These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.

    Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.

    The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.

    The regional tour matches are free of charge.

    The full squad:
    Goalkeepers: Isma Watenga (Vipers), Saidi Keni (Proline), Tom Ikara (Kirinya/Jinja S.S)
     Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers), Deus Bukenya (Vipers),  John Adiriko(SC Villa), Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Savio Kabugo (Proline), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka)
    Midfielders: Nicholas Kasozi Nicholas (Synergy), Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Simon Sserunkuma (SC Villa)
    Forwards: Milton Karisa (Vipers), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers), Nelson Senkatuka (Proline), Vitalis Tabu (SC Villa), Method Bassey (Mbarara), Shaban Mohamed (Onduparaka), Julius Malingumu (The Saints), Solomon Okwalinga (Synergy)
    Foreign based players:
    Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Aucho Khalid, Dennis Iguma and Murushid Jjuuko
  • Uganda Cranes regional tours 2017: Western Region F.A names 27 players on provisional squad

    Uganda Cranes regional tours 2017: Western Region F.A names 27 players on provisional squad

    The Uganda Cranes regional tours 2017:

    Western Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes

    8th July 2017

    At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry

    Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

    The Western region Football Association named 28 players to start preparations for the Uganda Cranes regional tour.

    Six more players were added on the earlier list released last week.

    The summoned players shall start training on Monday, 3rd July 2017 under head coach Vialli Bainomugisha.

    According to the Western Region FA General Secretary, Olivia Mugisha, the final team will be named on 6th July 2017.

    Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.

    ‘The Western Region Football Association is excited and ready to host the national team, Uganda Cranes. We have already started initial preparations to make the tour a complete success’ Mugisha remarked.

    Uganda Cranes’ Martin Kizza (left) takes on Kitara region’s Vicent Kasonki during the last match on the national tours held at Buhinga play ground in Fort Portal

    The last time the Uganda Cranes traveled on the regional tour was away to Kitara region at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal.

    The national team won comfortably 3-1 with the goals coming from Emmanuel Okwi (2) and Nelson Senkatuka.

    The consolation for the home side was scored by Beckam Musoki in the second half.

    A record mammoth crowd watched the game also graced by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo and many delegates.

    Some of the passionate football fans who attended the last regional tour in Fort Portal

    These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.

    Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.

    The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.

    The regional tour matches are free of charge.

    LIST OF PLAYERS:

    Goal Keepers:  Sula Kibalama (Sharp), Dennis Otim (Mbarara)

    Defenders: Johnson  Turinawe (Sharp), Zaid Byekwaso (Nyamityobora), Umar Kato (Rushere), Bruce  Rubanja (Creamland), Bashir Babu (Mbarara). Cleophas Fiat (Sharp), Winston Bamwesigye (Ryakasinga)

    Midfielders:  Mohammed Matovu (Welden), Micheal Muhangi (Mbarara), Tor Kondok (Red Army), Alex  Mandela (Sharp), Alex  Twinamatsiko (Rukungiri United), Sadam Juma (Creamland), Dennis  Agoa (Ntoda), Brian Owomugisha (Ntoda), Anatoli Irumba (Ryakasinga)

    Strikers: Solomon  Isaya (Kabwohe Town Council), Joseph  Akandwanaho (Bushenyi United), Peter Asiimire (Ibanda United), Ismail Luyombya (Rushere),  Sadam Nasir (Mbarara), Hassan Kakuru (Amama), Micheal Baseme (Rukungiri United), Dickens  Ainebyoona (Sharp), Sadat Nsubuga (Club-less), Brian                  Kanyesigye (Ryakasinga)

  • Pictorial: Triumphant Uganda Cranes contingent returns home safely

    Pictorial: Triumphant Uganda Cranes contingent returns home safely

    The triumphant Uganda Cranes delegation successfully returned from Cape Verde Islands early Tuesday morning (3am).

    The group was received by a host of FUFA officials led by the 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, CEO Edgar Watson, Humphrey Mandu (Deputy CEO), Hamid Juma (FUFA Executive committee member and Chairman Technical Committee), Decolas Kiiza (Director of Finance), Ahmed Hussein (FUFA Communications Manager), Hassan Kirunda Kakaire (FUFA Big league Delegate), Patrick Ntege (National teams’ Officer), FUFA Staff, fans, media, friends and relatives.

    L-R: Coach Micho, Humphrey Mandu and Edgar Watson chat shortly after the team’s arrival at Entebbe International Airport

    The group touched down at Entebbe International aboard Ethiopian Airlines on flight ET 336 from Addis Ababa.

    Thereafter, there was a special press conference held at the Airport where head of delegation Dennis Mbidde lauded the players, technical staff and the federation as a whole for the job well done.

    Some of the players upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport L-R Shaban Muhammad, Wadada nicolas, Murushid Juuko and Isaac Mulene
    Goalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba arrives at Entebbe International Airport. FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha is on the right.

    ‘We traveled with a committed and diligent team. I salute the players in a special way. This a a perfect start for the Project Cameroon 2019. I thank the technical team and FUFA as a whole’ Mbidde stated in a brief speech.

    Team captain Denis Onyango was equally ecstatic about the victory registered away from home.

    Dennis Onyango (R) joined by the FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha during the press conference at Entebbe International Airport

    ‘We responded positively despite the challenges encountered before the game. I thank the gallant players and technical team as well for the job well done. Let us stay focused for the job ahead of us’ Onyango, who officially started his role as team captain noted.

    Team head coach Milutin Sredejovic appreciated  the spirit exhibited in the particular game.

    ‘Since 2014, we have only lost one away match where we considered a penalty. The entire group was focused and i also hail the senior players on the team. We pushed to the limit and delivered. We are now eyeing the CHAN 2018 and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. I thank the players and FUFA for the preparations’ Micho said.

    The FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo hailed the sponsors – Airtel Uganda, Nile Special, Bidco, Ecobank, NIC, the players, fans, FUFA Executive Committee and the secretariat staff for the efforts during the trip to Cape Verde.

    FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo with Finance Director Decolas Kiiza (R)

    He called upon the Government of Uganda to fully support the national team, like it is done elsewhere in Africa.

    ‘It is exactly 12 days since we left the country for Cape Verde. We played three matches against Ethiopia, Senegal and Cape Verde. I salute the performance of the players for the discipline and hard-work. It is not easy to keep away for that long in such conditions and you still deliver positive results. I thank the FUFA Executive and secretariat for the necessary support. I continue to call upon the Government for financial support towards the Uganda Cranes. We need to be included on the national budget like it is done elsewhere in Africa. Our winning away to Cape Verde should only make us prepare better ahead of future engagements.’ The FUFA President said in his speech.

    Benard Muwanga, Denis Onyango and Ahmed Hussein at the Entebbe Airport

    The players were then served to a cocktail before the entire group departed for their respective homes.

    Focus immediately turns to the CHAN 2018 preparations as well as 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

    Uganda Cranes will play South Sudan in a two legged CHAN 2018 first round qualifier next month.

    In August, the national team will then host Egypt in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Kampala.

  • AFCON 2019 Qualifiers: Serunkuma’s goal sends Ugandans into wild celebrations as Cranes beats Cape Verde

    AFCON 2019 Qualifiers: Serunkuma’s goal sends Ugandans into wild celebrations as Cranes beats Cape Verde

    AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L)

    FT: Cape Verde 0-1 Uganda

    Goal: Geofrey Serunkuma (on 83 minutes)

    KCCA FC striker Geoffrey Serunkuma barely spent time on the pitch after coming on for Emma Okwi before announcing his arrival with an important goal that Cranes coach Milutin Sredojevic will look up to during the campaign of the Total Africa Cup of Nations 2019.

    Uganda Cranes Starting XI L-R (Back row) Emma Okwi, Khalid Aucho, Derrick Nsibambi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Murushid Juuko, Bernard Muwanga, Denis Onyango Front row (L-R) Nicolas Wadada, Faruku Miya, Isaac Muleme, Godfrey Walusimbi

    Micho substituted Okwi after he picked up a yellow card but the stylish striker had done his job for the period he spent on the pitch after keeping the Cape Verde defence under pressure.

    Micho took off Isaac Muleme for a striker Milton Karisa and Cranes had four strikers on the pitch Okwi, Miya Faruku, Derrick Nsibambi just at the start of the second half.

    Serunkuma netted late in the game for Uganda Cranes to win 1-0 in Group L.

    Denis Onyango started a new chapter as the full time captain of the Uganda Cranes with fabulous saves in the match.

    Hassan Wasswa and Khalid Aucho were in charge of the midfield while Murushid Juuko and Bernard Muwanga manned the defense with Godfrey Walusimbi and Wadada playing on the left and right ful backs respectively.

    ‘It was a good result. We were not disrupted by events on Saturday. We remained focused. We would have maintained our away record had it not been the penalty we conceded against Burkina Faso in 2016. This is a good wonderful result for my boys and the people of Uganda’ said Uganda Cranes coach Micho.

     

    FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (facing camera with cap) congratulates goalkeper Dennis Onyango during the celebrations after the final whistle

    FUFA Communication Manager Ahmed Hussein confirmed that the team will return home on Tuesday.

    ‘Uganda Cranes left Cape Verde last night 11 pm (time in Praia)- (3 a.m Monday in Uganda) but will arrive at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday at 3 am. Let’s turn up in big numbers to welcome back our heroes’ said Hussein,

    Striker Derrick Nsibambi is sandwiched during play
    Uganda Cranes forward player Faruku Miya attempts to dribble past two Cape Verde players players

    Team Line ups:

    Cape Verde XI: Vozinha (G.K), Tiago Almeida, Carlitos, Vally, Gege, Marcos Soares (59’ Ryan Mendes), Jamiro (76’ Helder), Garry Rodrigues, Ponck, Ze Luis, Julio Tavares (59’ Heldon)

    Subs Not Used: Babanco, Kevin Oliveira

    Head coach: Lúcio Antunes

    Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (GK) (C), Nicholas Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Bernard Muwanga, Murushid Jjuuko, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Khalid Aucho, Faruku Miya, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (78′ Geofrey Sserunkuma), Derrick Nsibambi (94′ Denis Timothy Awany) and Isaac Muleme (46′ Milton Karisa)

    Subs Not Used: Benjamin Ochan (GK), Isma Watenga (GK), Denis Okot, Robert Kaketo, Muhammad Shaban

    Head coach: Milutin Sredejovic

    PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department. 

     

  • Total AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda-Micho names starting team

    Total AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda-Micho names starting team

    AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda

    Saturday, 11th June 2017

    Estádio da Várzea, Praia City

    Time: 8.30pm EAST (4.30pm in Cape Verde)

    Live on 102.1 FUFA fm 

    Uganda Cranes Coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has named his starting XI of Uganda Cranes to face Cape Verde in the opening match of the Total AFCON 2019 Group L in Praia on Sunday evening.

     

     

  • AFCON 2019 Qualifiers: Cape Verde vs Uganda postponed to Sunday, Cranes full Contingent in Praia

    AFCON 2019 Qualifiers: Cape Verde vs Uganda postponed to Sunday, Cranes full Contingent in Praia

    AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda

    Saturday, 11th June 2017

    Estádio da Várzea, Praia City

    Time: 8.30pm EAST (4.30pm in Cape Verde)

    Live on 102.1 FUFA fm 

    The opening match of Group L in the Total Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers between Caper Verde and Uganda Cranes has been postponed to Sunday 11th June, 2017.

    In a communication from CAF that reads;

    ‘Kindly be informed that the flight of the Ugandan team has failed to take off from Dakar due to technical problem which was considered as a case of force majeure by the Committee of the Africa Cup of Nations’ 

    The match was due to be played on Saturday 10th June, 2017 in Praia at 8.30pm (EAST), 4.30pm in Cape Verde.

    ‘The kick off time for tomorrow’s match has been delayed by 24 hours. We shall get more details about the change of the match but the players are in good condition and ready for action. The entire Uganda Cranes contingent is nowin Praia’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein

    The change of match took the effort of FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo to communicate to Continental Soccer governing body CAF about today’s events in Dakar where Uganda Cranes final contingent had camped but found it difficult to connect to Cape Verde this morning.

     

  • Robert Kakeeto Thrilled by maiden Uganda Cranes assignment

    Robert Kakeeto Thrilled by maiden Uganda Cranes assignment

    It is every footballer’s dream including Robert Kakeeko to pull on a National team jersey for his country. National team duty calls for delivery on focus, commitment and skills with an aim of not disappointing those who have put a lot of trust in a player during his career.

    Kakeeto a Ugandan International who trades his trade in Aalborg  FC in the Danish Super Liga landed a call up to the Uganda Cranes three days to the day the National team played Kitara Region Select on the Uganda Cranes Regional tours. The match was played on 28th May, 2017 in FortPortal.

    The 22 year says he will never forget in his life the day he donned the Uganda Cranes jersey.

    Kakeeto (4th from L) on National team duty in Forportal during the Uganda Cranes Regional Tour. He is in Senegal where Cranes is camped ahead of Saturday’s clash with Cape Verde.

    ‘It is like a dream come true for the reason that any footballer would crave for to feature in his National team. I cannot forget the day I first wore the National Team Jersey yet it was another opportunity for adventure in my motherland’ said an excited Kakeeto

    Kakeeto says that he grew up looking up to Ugandan midfield gem Tony Mawejje though he also admires KCCA FC midfielder Saddam Juma amidst being in the same age range.

    Kakeeto (3rd from L in red top ) at Entebbe International Airport with Uganda Cranes players getting set to fly out of the country last week.

    The Aalborg FC player adds that he has to fight tooth and nail not to disappoint those who have confidence in him in particular the National Team tactician Sredejovic ‘Micho’ Milutin for the opportunity he gave him to don the Cranes jersey.

    With hopes of being part of the Uganda Cranes team which will qualify for AFCON Cameroon 2019 and FIFA World Cup Russia 2018, Kakeeto can’t stop working hard to keep in shape for his club and the national team.

    ‘I have to work hard and deliver. It is an obligation for me because I don’t have to let down all those who have commended me especially the Head coach’

    Little did he know that he would ever play competitive football until when he received a lot of praises from people in his home village Kyetume in Mukono.

    Kakeeto in traning for the National team duty

    ‘I used to play football with my village mates with no hope at all of turning professional. I always heard fans from the sidelines commenting about my skills and how I passed the ball’ added Kakeeto

    During his teenage days he was invited to feature for his Village team and later joined Forever Living Soccer Academy in Kampala under Coach Matia Lule.

    Heavens opened for Kakeeto who later flew to Denmark for trials at Aalborg FC where he has enjoyed great football development stages till when he was promoted to the club’s Senior team.

    The enterprising midfield gem hopes to play in better European leagues like Premier League, Spanish Laliga , Budesliga, French League 1 and Italian Serie A .

    For now, Kakeeto will keep his fingers crossed as Head coach Micho looks forward to picking a positive result against Cape Verde when the Total Africa Cup of Nations 2019 Qualifiers get underway on Saturday 10th June, 2017.

    MAIN PHOTO: L-R Robert Kakeeto, Muhammad Shaban and Milton Karisa on National team duty 

     

  • FUFA sends message of condolence to Ivory Coast FA following death of their star player Tiote

    FUFA sends message of condolence to Ivory Coast FA following death of their star player Tiote

    The football world is in shock following the demise of Ivory Coast National team player Cheick Tiote on Monday 5th June, 2017.

    The 30 year old Tiote was part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.  He has been plying his trade with Beijing Enterprises FC in China.

    FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo was shocked upon receiving the sad news.

    ‘We all know what he could offer on the pitch. African football has lost a giant of a player who made life difficult for his opponents on the pitch in the midfield. He was always full of commitment, focus and passion whenever given chance to play’ said FUFA President.

    ‘Our Condolences go out to the Ivory Coast Football Federation following the loss of a player who was hugely followed by football fans around the world including Uganda’ added Magogo.

    ‘We pray that the Almighty keeps his family, relatives and friends strong during these trying times’

    ‘Football will miss Chieck Tiote’

    Tiote collapsed during training but was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.

    A minute of silence was observed before kickoff of the International Friendly match between Senegal and Uganda Cranes played in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Dakar.

    Photo: Cheick Tiote on duty for Ivory Coast

    Photo Credit: Internet