Category: Cranes History

One of the greatest feelings in one’s career is meeting the person you idolize. 

This time it is one budding talent Kenneth Ssemakula who feels inspired to work more because of training  alongside  his idol and role model Murushid Juuko.

The two met during the on-going preparations for the upcoming international friendly between Uganda and South Africa at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, Kampala.

While speaking  to www.fufa.co.ug, Ssemakula who played a key role for the Uganda Hippos in the recently concluded  AFCON U20 tournament in Mauritania where Uganda finished runners-up admitted that he admired Juuko from the first time he saw him play.

‘The moment I saw Juuko play is when I fell in love with his style of play.  He is a complete  central defender who fits in all situations. He is calm when it calls for calmness, Good in the air, great timing and rough where need be.’ notes Ssemakula.

Ssemakula added that his admiration for Juuko made him switch from the central midfield position for central defence because he wanted to play like Juuko.

‘How I wish I ever partner with him in the central defence of the Uganda Cranes’ Semakula added. 

Ssemakula is a product of the FUFA Juniors  league with Busoga United Junior Team who was later promoted  to the senior Busoga United FC and currently features  for Bul FC. 

International Build Up match: 10th June 2021

South Africa Vs Uganda – Orlando Stadium, Soweto

The Uganda Cranes camp has been boosted by the timely arrival of the foreign based legion led by the newly appointed team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Abdu Lumala and Mustafa Kizza.

These three players were part of the team’s training session on Wednesday at Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.

Egypt based Okwi expressed gratitude upon the special role assigned to him as he also hailed the great work of his predecessor, Denis Onyango.

‘It is a great honour to lead the team as new captain and I thank the Almighty God. I have spoken to the players and welcomed the new ones onto the team’ Okwi stated.

Mutual respect:

‘As a captain, I have reminded them that we all respect each other regardless of age. The previous captain Denis Onyango congratulated me and wished me the very best. Onyango besides being my captain is also my good friend. He served us well and he is still with the team spiritually’ he added.

Essence of the upcoming international build up:

Okwi hailed the planning of FUFA for this international friendly match, which he believes will further spur the team and assist in planning.

‘I believe that the friendly against South Africa will push us. South Africa is a good side and like us, rebuilding the team. This match will help us to plan for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers’ Okwi disclosed.

Day four of the Uganda Cranes training will take place on Martyrs’ Day (3rd June 2021) at same venue at 9am.

Meanwhile, the technical team added four more players; Geofrey Wasswa (Sc Villa), Steven Mukwala (URA FC), Tom Ikara and Yusuf Ssozi (all from Police FC).

Some players were released to feature for their clubs in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Quarterfinals but will return immediately to camp after the matches.

Trained on Wednesday:

Goalkeepers: Tom Ikara, Charles Lukwago, Simon Tamale

Defenders: Murushid Juuko, Enock Walusimbi, Innocent Wafula, Mustafa Kizza, Hassan Muhamood, Patrick Mbowa, Kenneth Ssemakula

Midfielders: Yusuf Ssozi, Abdul Lumala, Steven Sserwadda, Joseph Akandwanaho, Ivan Sserubiru, Bright Anukani, Shafic Kagimu, Isma Mugulusi, Bright Anukani

Forwards: Emmanuel Okwi (Captain), Steven Desse Mukwala, Derrick Kakooza

Innocent Wafula was born to the late Bwire Ogutu and Mary Omoding.

Like most footballers, Wafula fell in love with the beautiful game at the age of ten and virtually kicked whatever came his way.

The love was stimulated  when his parents moved to the rich footballing hub of Walukuba in Jinja city, where football is the order of the day. 

While at Walukuba, the little  Wafula picked inspiration  from retired Uganda Cranes  Captain Geoffrey  Massa and Moses Oloya who currently plays in Vietnam thus kept pursuing  his dream of playing football to get to their level. 

Because his parents  were traders, Wafula moved with them wherever they went for business and therefore  moved with them to Kenya  and it is where he started  playing  serious football  with Busia Combined  Football  Club and later Chemeli Sugar before joining giants Gor Mahia.

He later switched sides to Uganda Premier League League at Vipers Sports Club, playing two seasons and now at Mbarara City in the Western region.

At Kogero,  the flying  right back featured with Ugandans like Dan Mzee Sserunkuma, Khalid Aucho and Godfrey ‘Baba’ Kizito.

His spectacular display at Gor Mahia tickled the Harambe Stars technical side to summon him for National  Team Duties which  later did not go well because his citizenship was doubted. 

Wafula says that former  Uganda Cranes Tactician Sredejovic ‘Micho’ Milutin had started  monitoring  his progress  but unfortunately left before a call up. 

‘Since then I lost hope of featuring for the Cranes and concentrated on club football’ said Wafula.

He narrates that returning  to Uganda  to play for Vipers  revived his hopes of playing for Uganda Cranes thus this called up is a wakeup  call to work harder .

‘God has granted me a rare second chance which  I need to put to the best utilization. This might be my chance to feature at AFCON or even World Cup. I can not rule out the pressure  but I will play my part and leave the rest to the technical team’ Wafula adds.

About the competition in his position, the soft spoken flying  right back said that he welcomes the competition and it is positive for him because  it pushes him to work harder and also learn from those who featured earlier for the Cranes.

While speaking about the Cranes transition process, Wafula says it is a good composition of the youth and experienced players, where the young can always learn from the experienced and by the time the young ones become mainstays it will be easy for them. 

He also added that this transition is here for a reason and had not  it been so he wouldn’t  have been part of the squad. 

International Build Up Match: Saturday, 12th June 2021

South Africa Bafana Bafana Vs Uganda Cranes

The National senior team A (Uganda Cranes) has on Monday, 31st May 2021 embarked on residential training at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo ahead of the up-coming international build up against South Africa.

Fourteen players turned up for the two hour session conducted by the head coach Abdallah Mubiru alongside the assistant Charles Livingstone Mbabazi.

With the exception of the foreign based legion as well as those players whose clubs will be engaged in the upcoming Stanbic Uganda Cup return leg matches for the matches, the rest of the players were present.

Head coach Mubiru expressed gratitude upon the positive response of the players who turned up; with the right mentality, character and fitness.

‘I thank the Almighty Allah for the gift of life and making all things happen. We have started our training sessions today in preparation for the match against South Africa. This is a rebuilding process for the team as most of the senior players retired from the beautiful game on the senior team. I am however happy by the attitude of the players on the team’ Mubiru disclosed.

All the players and officials were subject to the mandatory COVID-19 test before entering the residential camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi.

Day two of the training sessions will be held on Tuesday, 1st June 2021 at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, kicking off by 9 am.

South Africa will host Uganda Cranes on Saturday, 12th May 2021 during the international build up match.

Another icon of Ugandan football draws the curtains to such an illustrious career with the Uganda Cranes. 

Denis Masinde Onyango has been the best goalkeeper I have watched in the World. For those who follow, it is not the first time I am saying this.
We have always been sure that there is Denis to carry the team when it needed the goalkeeper. 

He has been a great athlete, disciplined sportsman and patriotic footballer. 
He has taken choice to retire and we should celebrate him for the hard decision. If you asked me, he is one of those few players that should have stayed forever but we have to accept that players come and go. It is just human.
Denis wanted to announce his retirement in Malawi immediately after the game but was advised to hold on for a better timing. There was always not going to be the right timing for Denis to retire.
FUFA took a decision to organize testimonial matches for national team players who retire after 8 years of service or those that have put indelible marks to the team as decided by the FUFA Executive.

Definitely Onyango will have the option to take the testimonial match at the right timing.

I wish Denis the best of the rest his athletic football career and hope the game retains him to serve it in different capacities.

Eng. Moses Magogo

FUFA President

Total AFCON 2021 Qualifiers (Group B):

Uganda Cranes 0-0 Burkina Faso

South Sudan 0-1 Malawi

Uganda Cranes’ goal-less home stalemate will Burkina Faso at the St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende during round 5 of the Total AFCON 2021 qualifiers leaves the CECAFA giants on the brick of qualification, pending the last away game with Malawi next Monday.

The Cranes staged a gallant display especially in the second half and had midfielder Ibrahim Orit hit the woodwork off Faruku Miya’s corner kick.

The opening stanza had produced half chances through Miya, Patrick Henry Kaddu and Emmanuel Okwi.

At the start of the second half, Orit replaced winger Abdul Lumala and offensive midfielder Moses Waiswa came on for Mike Azira as the Uganda Cranes intensified their raids towards the opposition goal.

Fahad Azizi Bayo took over the place for the injured Patrick Henry Kaddu towards the hour mark.

Uganda Cranes best chance of the game came on 69 minutes when Orit rose highest to nod Miya’s curling corner kick onto the cross bar.

Waiswa’s industriousness had the Cranes raid the opposition although with no breakthrough.

Miya twice had an opportunity to score but was fluffed by the Burkina Faso goalkeeper Herve.

Burkina Faso qualified for the finals even with a game to play against South Sudan in Ouagadougou.

Meanwhile, Uganda and Malawi will face off in a grand finale next Monday for the remaining slot.

Malawi beat South Sudan 1-0 in Khartoum to make 7 points. South Sudan bows out of the qualifiers.

Uganda Cranes will resume preparations for the Malawi clash on Thursday ahead of the chartered flight set to depart on Sunday.

Uganda Cranes XI: Dennis Onyango (Goalkeeper – Captain), Nicholas Wadada, Joseph Ochaya, Halid Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Taddeo Lwanga, Abdu Lumala, Mike Azira, Patrick Henry Kaddu, Emmanuel Okwi, Faruku Miya

Changes:

46’ Ibrahim Orit In, Abdul Lumala Out

46’ Moses Waiswa In, Mike Azira Out

58’ Fahad Bayo In, Patrick Henry Kaddu Out

Subs Not Used: Charles Lukwago (G.K), Salim Jamal Magoola (G.K), Ronald Mukiibi Ddungu, Elvis Bwomono, Mustafa Kizza, Allan Okello, Yunus Sentamu, Daniel Isiagi Opolot, William Luwagga

Reactions:

Abdallah Mubiru, Uganda Cranes Head Coach:

We give thanks to Almighty Lord for whatever we have achieved from the game. We had a game where I feel we were unlucky. The players put up a good fight. We tried our best in the game. We knew that even before the game, it would all end in Malawi. We are going back to the drawing board to play for the game away against Malawi. We have to select a better team to face Malawi.

Denis Onyango, Uganda Cranes Captain:

 I am very happy for the performance of the team. We lifted out tempo in the second half and created half chances. The introduction of Moses Waiswa and Ibrahim Orit pushed us further in the second half. We still needed this result. It is still in our hands. We need to do ourselves a favour. We need to play total football. We need to carry on the momentum. It is in our hands. We need and must qualify for AFCON finals.

CHAN 2020- Cameroon

Uganda 2-5 Morocco at Stade de la Reunification

A journey that started with high hopes ended miserably with Uganda Cranes losing 5-2 on Tuesday night to defending champions Morocco at the Total CHAN 2020 Finals in Cameroon.

The biggest chunk of the Ugandan team was making its debut appearance at the tournament set aside for the local based players on the African Continent. This was one of the contributors to the results but did not stop the players, technical team and FUFA to set targets for the tournament.

The fans back home believed that the moment was ripe for Uganda to get out of the group stages for the first time. The previous four attempts had seen Uganda labour to get results.

The story was about to change on Tuesday night in Douala as Ibrahim Orit handed Uganda Cranes the lead early on in the first half only for his efforts to be cancelled at the stroke of half time with Morocco winning and converting a penalty.  

The story after the break was not pleasant at all as Uganda Cranes conceded four more goals to dash any lingering hopes of qualification from the group stage.

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Saidi Kyeyune who scored a spectacular goal against Togo was at it again with a well worked out free-kick in the second half to reduce the deficit for the score to read 4-2 but Morocco hit back with another goal for the match to end 5-2. Ayoub El Kaabi, Soufiane Rahmi(2), Hamza El Houssaoui and Rahmi and substitute Abdelilah Hafidi netted for Morocco.

Morocco and Rwanda qualified from the group as Uganda finished bottom with one point.

Uganda Cranes Head Coach- Johnathan McKinstry

‘It was a game we all always it would be challenging for us. The penalty obviously couldn’t have come at a worse time. We are not complaining about the penalty. I think it was fair enough call. We made some mistakes and we got punished as we also started chasing the game. Congratulations to Morocco and we wish them the vest best for the rest of the tournament’

‘We cannot complain about preparation, when we set out for this project, we made certain requests to the federation it terms of how we can prepare the team. I think we got 90% of what we asked for which is very good.  To be honest that was pleasing.

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The intensity of the game in competitions is different from what you get in pre-match tournaments. We were pleased with the progress of the players and they have learnt a lot. They now know that when you get to such tournaments you take your chance. They have gained experience and will be better for the future’

Uganda Cranes Starting team:   Charles Lukwago (GK), Aziiiz Kayondo, Denis Iguma, Musitafa Mujuzi, Halid Lwaliwa (Capt), Shafik Kagimu, Bright Anukani, Saidi Kyeyune, Ibrahim Orit, Viane Ssekajjugo, Brian Aheebwa.

Morocco starting team:  Anas Znati (GK), Yahya Jabrane, Mohamed Ali, Ayoub El Kaabi, Reda Jaadi, Hamza El Houssaoui, Soufiane Boufthi, Soufiane Rahmi, Abdel Boutouil, Omar Namsaoui, Adam Ennafati.

Total CHAN 2020: Pre Match Quotes: McKinstry, Lwaliwa and Saidi Kyeyune on Uganda vs Togo

African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2020- Cameroon

Group C- AT Stade de la Reunifiction- Douala

18^th Jan 2021 Rwanda 0-0 Uganda

22^nd Jan 2021 Uganda vs Togo (10pm EAT, 8pm Local Time)

26^th Jan 2021 Morocco vs Uganda (10pm EAT, 8pm Local Time)

The next two matches for Uganda Cranes at the ongoing Total CHAN Finals 2020 in Cameroon will define the team’s journey at the tournament in Cameroon.

Having drawn goalless with Rwanda in the opening match on Monday, Johnathan McKinstry’s troops will be hoping to treat the matches against Togo and Morocco like Cup Finals.

However the Northern Irishman still has a lot of confidence in his team because they have been putting into practice what they have learnt during training sessions.

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At the Pre-match Press conference on Thursday afternoon and a detailed interview session with fufa.co.ug in Cameroon McKinstry also revealed that strike Milton Karisa will not be available for the fixture against Togo on Friday.

Uganda Cranes Head coach Johnathan McKinstry on Karisa’s injury update

‘It is unfortunate that Karisa had to come out early in that game where we had a bright start against Rwanda. He had a good run during the Mini Tournament in Doula. The Medical team has done a wonderful job and will monitor the situation in the next few days. As we welcome back our captain Halid Lwaliwa, it is unfortunate that Karisa will not be available for selection on Friday. The medical team will keep assessing his fitness levels and report back. We shall miss him but it is an opportunity for others to step in and show what they can do’ said McKinstry after Wednesday’s training in Douala.

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McKinstry on Cranes team and next opponents Togo

In the current situation where it is for the rest of the teams in the tournament playing after every three days, we have got to find the balance between the technical and tactical part that you want to do on the field.

Togo plays differently from Rwanda. The boys look confident ahead of the match with Togo. We shall make small adjustments going into this game.

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Togo will present a different challenge from Rwanda but we don’t want to give them their rhythm in the game. If we do that, we shall be punished. We know both teams provide different challenges and we must get solutions. We know Togo will come into the game looking to improve as well but we feel that we have solutions for the game against Togo. The session on Thursday night will give us a true picture of what we want to do on Friday.

Uganda Cranes Captain- Halid Lwaliwa

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I am back and training well. The decision to select me for the game is in the hands of the coach. However I am fit and ready to play. Our character that brought us to the CAHN Finals is still vibrant and intact. We shall stick to that as a team to get results. We didn’t get what we desired for on Monday but we also know that we must improve.

Saidi Kyeyune- Uganda Cranes Midfielder

The coach has kept telling us to play as a team to get the desired result in the next game. We dropped points on the first day but there is room for improvement and that is what we are doing during the training sessions. The senior players will keep guiding the young talent in the squad but they need to remain focused and take every opportunity while at this stage. They need to know the value of being here as it helps the team and players improve every time they are on pitch.

MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes Head coach Johnathan McKinstry and his 1st Assistant Abdallah Mubiru during a training sesison on Wednesday night in Douala. The will have to plan for improved performance against Togo on Friday in CHAN.

Total CHAN Finals 2020 -Cameroon

Group C Fixtures- Stade Reunification- Douala

Morocco vs Togo (5pm Local Time, 7pm EAT)

Rwanda vs Uganda (8pm Local Time, 10pm EAT)

Uganda and Rwanda will rekindle their football rivalry on foreign soil in a tournament hosted by Cameroon.

It is well documented that football battles between the two sides are always full of intensity, emotions, beautiful football and any other ingredients that make a classic derby.

From the CECAFA region to the Total CHAN 2020 tournament, expect fireworks for the Group C encounter at the Reunification Stadium in Douala on Monday night (8pm Local time, 10pm in Uganda).

‘Every game is important. Every game is massive. If we play to our maximum level, we shall get the results we want. The CHAN tournament is where things can change very quickly. We believe we have players who can cause problems to our opponents in the group. First, let us get 3 points and continue planning for other matches’ said Uganda Cranes Head coach Johnathan McKinstry.

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McKinstry will come up against his former employers Rwanda for the first time since leaving the job about 3 years ago. During his period as coach of Amavubi Stars, he enjoyed great success in 2016 when he led hosts Rwanda to the Quarterfinals of CHAN.

‘I have an emotional attachment with Rwanda. I was head coach of Rwanda in 2016. We have one objective-when we play Rwanda-winning will be on our mind. The historical relationship will be put aside. If it is not playing against Uganda, i have always wanted Rwanda to do well. It is a big East African derby’ said McKinstry on his reunion ahead of the Uganda vs Rwanda match on Monday.

‘It is widely known that Uganda hasn’t been able to get out of the group stages of CHAN. To me it is an anomaly with the kind of quality players Uganda produces. We want to be here till the final weekend of CHAN’ Mckinstry noted as he elaborated on why Uganda has not been able to get out of the group stages.

‘We feel we know their strengths. However we are making sure we cover up for that in our training sessions. It is really not about doing anything new but focusing on one or two specific areas of our style of play that will bring maximum benefit to the entire team for good results’ said McKinstry.

‘It is a big derby to start the tournament against Rwanda. Both countries are rivals.  It is important for the players to know it is not about three points in the tournament but local bragging rights.  Eighteen of the players played for me a couple of years ago. It is an experienced squad and hopefully my knowledge of the squad can get the results everyone at home and here are looking for’ noted McKinstry.

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‘We believe the preparations done by the team have mirrored in what we had initially planned even before the camp was cancelled in March. We have achieved 90-95% success with our preparations.

We are continuing to climb the mountain we have set for ourselves as we know if we reach the top of it, we can be successful’ noted McKinstry.

Team Captain Halid Lwaliwa speaks about the Uganda vs Rwanda derby

‘I am glad to be here. I am also happy that the team qualified for the CHAN Finals. It has always been a dream for me and the players on the team play in this tournament. I think we can make it from the group stages. I have not watched any matches of Rwanda in action but we know their players from the U20, U23 and other National teams as we have been able to face off in the past against them. This team has been together for long. We believe we can go all the way’

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Group C: Defending Champions Morocco, Rwanda, Uganda and Togo.

MAIN PHOTO Uganda Cranes Head caoch Johnathan McKinstry and Team Captain Halid Lwaliwa during the Prematch Press Conference at Stade Reunification- Douala ahead of Uganda vs Rwanda on Monday.

TOTAL AFCON 2021 Qualifiers: (Group B)

Match Day 4: South Sudan Vs Uganda – Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi

Monday, 16th November 2020 (4 PM)

*Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m

When Uganda Cranes take on South Sudan during the return leg of the TOTAL AFCON 2021 qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Monday, Allan Okello expects a far much improved performance thaN during the first leg at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The 20 year old left footed attacker who currently plays at Algerian club Paradou AC asserts that they have revisited the first match and ready to clean up the grey areas.

‘We have seen many of the mistakes done during the first leg and hope that we shall have a far much better game on Monday’ Okello disclosed as the team trained at Kasarani in Nairobi on Saturday.

Okello was among the players introduced in the second half in the game Uganda Cranes won 1-0 over South Sudan at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende courtesy of super substitute Halid Lwaliwa’s header from Faruku Miya’s inviting free-kick.

The Airtel – FUFA reigning footballer of the year replaced Emmanuel Arnold Okwi after 58 minutes and instantly delivered his trade-mark long shot after breaking from the right flank.

‘All the players are in good shape ahead of the match. We had a good first training on Saturday and we are ready for action’ Okello added.

Uganda Cranes delegation is accommodated at Tamarin Tree Hotel, Langata in Nairobi.

The team is expected to conduct the final training on the match eve (Sunday evening) at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi.

The match commentary will be live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, the Football Radio courtesy of Shafik Mutebi.

Uganda Cranes has fetched 7 points from 3 matches and only require a victory on Monday to secure a slot at the TOTAL 2021 AFCON finals in Cameroon

Uganda Cranes Delegation in Kenya:

Players:

Onyango Denis, Magoola Salim Jamal, Lukwago Charles, Bwomono Elvis, Wadada Nico Wakiro, David Owori, Galiwango Disan, Awany Timothy, Mukiibi Ronald, Lwaliwa Halid, Mbowa Paul Patrick, Azira Micheal, Kagimu Shafiq, Aucho Khalid, Watambala Karim, Miya Faruku, Kizito Luwagga, Okello Allan, Okwi Emmanuel, Nsibambi Derrick, Lubega Edrisa, Brian Aheebwa, Bayo Fahad

Officials:

Leader of Delegation: Hajji Abdul Lukooya Ssekabira

Advance party head: Paul Mukatabala

Head Coach: Mckinstry Johnathan

Assistant Coach 1: Mubiru Abdallah

Assistant Coach 2: Mbabazi Livingstone

Goalkeeping coach: Kajoba Fred

Statistician: McCarthy Alexander

Team manager: Massa Geofrey

Fitness coach: Ayobo Felix

Team Physician: Opika Opoka

Team Physician:Emmanuel Nakabago

Kits officer: Balyejusa Ayub

Kits officer: Mulondo Samuel

Media: Nsereko Hamza Afriqana

FUFA Staff: Kazoora Emmanuel

102.1 FUFA fm: Mutebi Shafik

TOTAL AFCON 2021 Qualifiers: (Group B)

Match Day 4: South Sudan Vs Uganda – Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi

Monday, 16th November 2020 (4 PM)

*Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m

The Uganda Cranes delegation to Nairobi, Kenya safely arrived on Saturday afternoon.

The contingent was welcomed by the advance party head Paul Mukatabala at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after a successful flight aboard Uganda Airlines (UR202) from Entebbe International Airport.

The players and officials then checked in at Tamarin Tree Hotel, Langata – Nairobi.

On Sunday, the team will conduct the final training at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi well in time of the Monday clash at 4 PM.

The match commentary will be live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, the Football Radio courtesy of Shafik Mutebi.

With 7 points collected over 3 matches, Uganda Cranes need maximum points from the match to secure a slot at the TOTAL 2021 AFCON finals in Cameroon.

The team later executed a recovery session at the Kasarani training ground.

Players:

Onyango Denis, Magoola Salim Jamal, Lukwago Charles, Bwomono Elvis, Wadada Nico Wakiro, David Owori, Galiwango Disan, Awany Timothy, Mukiibi Ronald, Lwaliwa Halid, Mbowa Paul Patrick, Azira Micheal, Kagimu Shafiq, Aucho Khalid, Watambala Karim, Miya Faruku, Kizito Luwagga, Okello Allan, Okwi Emmanuel, Nsibambi Derrick, Lubega Edrisa, Brian Aheebwa, Bayo Fahad

Officials:

Leader of Delegation: Hajji Abdul Lukooya Ssekabira

Advance party head: Paul Mukatabala

Head Coach: Mckinstry Johnathan

Assistant Coach 1: Mubiru Abdallah

Assistant Coach 2: Mbabazi Livingstone

Goalkeeping coach: Kajoba Fred

Statistician: McCarthy Alexander

Team manager: Massa Geofrey

Fitness coach: Ayobo Felix

Team Physician: Opika Opoka

Team Physician:Emmanuel Nakabago

Kits officer: Balyejusa Ayub

Kits officer: Mulondo Samuel

Media: Nsereko Hamza Afriqana

FUFA Staff: Kazoora Emmanuel

102.1 FUFA fm: Mutebi Shafik

TOTAL AFCON 2021 Qualifiers: (Group B)

Match Day 4: South Sudan Vs Uganda – Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi

Monday, 16th November 2020 (4 PM)

*Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m

The Uganda Cranes contingent to Nairobi, Kenya has set off from Entebbe International Airport aboard Uganda Airlines, Flight UR202 on Saturday morning.

Midfielder David Owori replaces the suspended Joseph Ochaya who picked a second caution in the qualifiers during the Thursday clash.

The rest of the players who made the match day squad during the 1-0 home win at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende are maintained.

The delegation will be received by the head of advance party Paul Mukatabala upon arrival in Nairobi.

FUFA Executive Committee member Hajji Abdul Lukooya Ssekabira is the Leader of Delegation.

The match commentary will be live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, the Football Radio courtesy of Shafik Mutebi.

Uganda Cranes need maximum points from the match to secure a slot at the TOTAL 2021 AFCON finals in Cameroon.

Players:

Onyango Denis, Magoola Salim Jamal, Lukwago Charles, Bwomono Elvis, Wadada Nico Wakiro, David Owori, Galiwango Disan, Awany Timothy, Mukiibi Ronald, Lwaliwa Halid, Mbowa Paul Patrick, Azira Micheal, Kagimu Shafiq, Aucho Khalid, Watambala Karim, Miya Faruku, Kizito Luwagga, Okello Allan, Okwi Emmanuel, Nsibambi Derrick, Lubega Edrisa, Brian Aheebwa, Bayo Fahad

Officials:

Leader of Delegation: Hajji Abdul Lukooya Ssekabira

Advance party head: Paul Mukatabala

Head Coach: Mckinstry Johnathan

Assistant Coach 1: Mubiru Abdallah

Assistant Coach 2: Mbabazi Livingstone

Goalkeeping coach: Kajoba Fred

Statistician: McCarthy Alexander

Team manager: Massa Geofrey

Fitness coach: Ayobo Felix

Team Physician: Opika Opoka

Team Physician: Emmanuel Nakabago

Kits officer: Balyejusa Ayub

Kits officer: Mulondo Samuel

Media: Nsereko Hamza Afriqana

FUFA Staff: Kazoora Emmanuel

102.1 FUFA fm: Mutebi Shafik

Uganda Cranes overcame a hard fighting South Sudan side1-0 at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Thursday,12th November 2020 under closed doors.

Halid Lwaliwa, a substitute for Ronald Mukiibi scored the only goal of the day coming in the 85th minute.

www.fufa.co.ug captured the key moments prior to, during and after this physical duel that also witnessed rain drizzles in the first half.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWY80HfFPtk&feature=youtu.be

CREDIT: FUFA Communications Department

TOTAL AFCON 2021 Qualifiers (Group B):

Uganda Cranes 1-0 South Sudan

Uganda Cranes over came a hard fighting South Sudan team 1-0 during the TOTAL AFCON 2021 group B qualifier played at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Thursday.

Defender Halid Lwaliwa headed home Faruku Miya’s free-kick in the 85th minute of the game played under closed doors.

Lwaliwa was a substitute, replacing the injured Ronald Mukiibi Ddungu in the 68th minute after pulling a ham-string.

Miya had earlier hit the post with different attempts.

Uganda Cranes’ technical team made a couple of changes in the game.

First, Emmanuel Okwi was replaced by Allan Okello in the 58^th minute before Lwaliwa’s forced change 10 minutes later.

Karim Watambala and Edrisa Lubega were also introduced for Khalid Aucho and Paul Derrick Nsibambi respectively.

Watambala earned his first senior debut, same like Bwomono.

Left back Joseph Ochaya got cautioned in the final stages of the game, a decision that automatically rules him out of the return leg on Monday, 16th November 2020.

‘I am happy for the victory. We really worked hard to break down their resilience which was anticipated because they are a hard nut to break. We look forward the return leg on Monday’ Head coach Johnathan McKinstry remarked after the game.

The win takes Uganda Cranes to 7 points from 3 matches.

Burkina Faso beat Malawi 3-1 in the other match day three duel in Ouagadougou as the West Africans also have the same number of points.

Meanwhile, Uganda Cranes will depart for Nairobi on Saturday, 14th November 2020.

Team Line Ups:

Uganda Cranes XI:

Denis Onyango (18), Elvis Bwomono (06), Joseph Ochaya (02), Ronald Mukiibi (12), Timothy Denis Awany (03), Mike Azira (23), Khalid Aucho (08), Faruku Miya (17), William Kizito Luwagga (10), Derrick Nsibambi (11), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (07)

Substitutes: Jamal Salim (19), Charles Lukwago (01), Nicholas Wadada (14), Disan Galiwango, Patrick Mbowa (24), Halid Lwaliwa (15), Shafiq Kagimu (13), Karim Watambala (25), Allan Okello (20), Edrisa Lubega (22), Brian Ahebwa (16), Fahad Bayo (09)

South Sudan XI:

Ramadan John Mayik Diing (G.K – 1), Abdulkarim Yom Mutwakil -29, Peter Maker Manyang – 4, Rehan Angier Malong (14), Manyumom Achol (8), Jackson Morgan Odebe (16), Ivan Wani Adebo (7), David Sebit Omot (17), Tito Okello Odong (10), Makueth  Wol Akeen Nguet (22), Stephen Pawaar Lony (25)

Subs:  Godfrey Nyeko Okello (3), Abdalla Asad Musa (24), John Kuol Chol (15), Kenjok Wal Athiu (9), Dominic Abul Pretino (11), Joseph Kuch Nyuar Atak (12), Dominic Angelo Kornelio Aroma (6), Bak Majok Nyang (2), Majak Maling Mawith (23 – Goalkeeper), Denis Yongure Daluri (20), Aluck Akech Mabior (19)

TOTAL AFCON 2021 Qualifiers (Group B)

Match Day 3: Thursday 12th November 2020 – Uganda Vs South Sudan – St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 pm)

*Live on FUFA Facebook page, 102.1 FUFA f.m and BBS Telefaina

Match Day 4: Monday 16 November 2020 – South Sudan Vs Uganda – Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi (4 pm)

Uganda Cranes take on South Sudan in the AFCON 2021 group B qualifiers.

The first game of the double header comes on Thursday, 12th November 2020 at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 pm).

The return leg will be played on Monday, 16th November 2020 at the Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi.

The Uganda Cranes team has been engaged in training sessions for the past 10 days at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo and St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende in preparation for this game.

The players (StarTimes Uganda Premier League and those who are foreign based) camped at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi.

Israel based William Kizito Luwagga, Sweden based Ronald Mukiibi and Joseph Benson Ochaya who features for TP Mazembe of DR Congo were the final arrivals on Tuesday afternoon.

Both the head coach Johnathan McKinstry and captain Denis Onyango expressed the readiness to take on the opponents.

Full Team Available for selection:

Goalkeepers: Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Jamal Salim (Al Hilal, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda)

Defenders: Ronald Mukiibi (Ostersunds FK, Sweden), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam, Tanzania), Timothy Denis Awany (Sport Club Ironi Ashdod, Israel), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, Democratic Republic of Congo), Elvis Bwomono (Southend, England), Disan Galiwango (Vipers, Uganda), Patrick Paul Mbowa (URA, Uganda), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Midfielders: Michael Azira (Chicago Fire, USA), Khalid Aucho (Misr Lel Makasa, Egypt) Allan Kyambadde (El Gouna, Egypt), Allan Okello (Paradou, Algeria), Shafik Kagimu Kuci (URA FC, Uganda), Karim Watambala (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Forwards: Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Ittihad Alexandria, Egypt), Fahad Bayo (Sport Club Ironi Ashdod, Israel), Farouk Miya (Konyaspor, Turkey), William Kizito Luwagga (Hapoel Kfar Saba F.C, Israel) ), Edirisa Lubega (Paide Linnameeskond, Estonia), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Match Officials:

Match Referee: Messie Jessie Oved Nkounkou Mvoutou (Congo Brazzaville)

First Assistant Referee: Styven Danek Styven Moutsassi Moyo (Congo Brazzaville)

Second Assistant Referee: Jospin Luckner Malonga (Central African Republic)

Reserve Referee: Lazard Tsiba Kamba (Congo Brazzaville)

Match Commissioner: Khalid Abdallah Mohamed (Tanzania)

Referee Assessor: Michel Gasingwa (Rwanda)