Uganda Cranes Head coach Milutin Sredojevic has named a 33 man Squad of local based players to start preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar Qualifiers 2022 against Rwanda due on 7th and 10th October 2021.
The camp started on Sunday after the team returned from Mbale for the Uganda Cranes Regional Tour which the National team won 1-0 against the Eastern Region Select team.
The team will train later today at Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
The foreign based players will be added to the Squad by the coach as and when FIFA dates are opened.
The 33 man Squad
Goalkeepers: Mutakubwa Joel (Express FC), Alionzi Nafian (URA FC), Tamale Simon (SoltiloBright Stars FC)
Defenders: Willa Paul (Vipers SC), Wafula Innocent (KCCA FC), Mandela Ashraf (URA FC), Achai Herbert (KCCA FC) , Kayondo Aziz (Vipers SC), Kaddu George (Wakiso Giants FC), Walusimbi Enock (Express FC), Iguma Denis (KCCA FC), Najib Fesali (URAFC), Mulondo Livingstone (Vipers SC), Waswa Geofrey (KCCA FC), Ramadan Musa (KCCA FC)
Midfielders: Byaruhanga Bobosi (Vipers SC), Mbowa Patrick (URA FC), Kakooza Mahad (Express FC), Wamana Ibrahim (UPDF), Kagimu Shafik(URA FC), Bagole David (Vipers SC), Karisa Milton (Vipers SC), Mato Rogers, Ojera Joackim (URA FC), Poloto Julius (KCCA FC), Orit Ibrahim (Vipers SC), Kizza Martin (Express FC)
Strikers: Sentamu Yunus (Vipers SC), Mukwala Stephen (URA FC), Rwothomio Cromwell (URA FC), Anaku Sadat (KCCA FC), Aheebwa Brian (KCCA FC), Kasirye Davis (KCCA FC)
Uganda Cranes edged Eastern Region select 1-0 during the regional tour encounter at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday, 25th September 2021.
Second half substitute Joackim Ojera scored the lone goal in the 52nd minute.
Ojera scored past goalkeeper Edward Kasibante after a corner kick from Julius Poloto was headed straight to the goalkeeper by Brian Aheebwa.
In the first half, Julius Poloto came close with a distant shot on target saved by goalkeeper Kasibante.
Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Nafiani Alionzi saved a one against one with Edmond Wabonka as Nassur Nadala and Emma Mukisa.
There were wholesome changes for both teams in the second half to give the different players opportunities to feature.
Rogers Mato in action against Eastern region select team player Isma Kaliaswa
Uganda Cranes Technical Team and some subsistute players
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic was happy for the result and the second half performance from the team.
‘It was a spirited performance from the team especially in the second half. This is the start of the preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 double header qualifiers against Rwanda with the locally based players and later the foreign based players shall join in’ Micho told the media after the match.
Eastern region select team head coach Godfrey “Toldo” Awachango was full of praise for the performance but ruined the missed goal scoring opportunities.
‘We staged a gallant performance against Uganda Cranes and we could easily have won the game if we had converted the goal scoring opportunities created. This is a great moment for the young players to build their confidence ahead of their respective careers’ Awachango noted.
The regional tours are jointly funded by Airtel Uganda and Nile Breweries Limited, under the Nile Special brand.
Eastern Region Select Team XI Vs Uganda Cranes
Team Line Ups:
Eastern Region XI: Edward Kasibante (G.K), Stephen Namisi, Peter Lusibula (Captain), Ibrahim Pengere, Tiff Kahandi, Isma Kaliaswa, Francis Odongo, Farhadi Aneku, Edmond Wabonka, Emma Mukisa, Nassur Nadala
Substitutes: Stephen Makumba (G.K), Edmond Otim, Lawrence Olabaro, Raymond Othieno, Usama Kayeba, Saadi Ismail, Zanuni Mugooya, Bosco Luyonlo, Bonifancesio Chideko, Ivan Jackuma
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select (First half team)
Uganda Cranes XI: Alionzi Nafian (G.K), Innocent Wafula, Herbert Achai, Najib Fesali, Denis Iguma (Captain), Patrick Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu, Rogers Mato, Sadat Anaku, Jude Semugabi, Julius Poloto
Substitutes: Simon Tamale (G.K), Jack Komakech (G.K), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa, Davis Kasirye
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select (Second Half team)
Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes – Mbale Municipal Stadium
Saturday, 25th September (4 PM) – Behind Closed Doors (Follow Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC TV and all official FUFA Social Media Platforms
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has confirmed the starting line up against the Eastern region select at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday.
Alionzi Nafian is in goal. Innocent Wafula (right back) and Herbert Achai (left back) with Najib Fesali and captainDenis Iguma at central defence.
Patrick Paul Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu and Rogers Mato are all in midfield.
It is a three man attack force of Sadat Happy Anaku, Jude Semugabi and Julius Poloto to seek for the goals.
The match is to be played behind closed doors because of COVID-19 restrictions but will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and all official social media platforms.
The substitutes are Simon Tamale and Jack Komakech (both goalkeepers), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa and Davis Kasirye.
The regional tours are jointly sponsored by Nile Special and Airtel Uganda.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Eastern Region Select:
Alionzi Nafian (G.K), Innocent Wafula, Herbert Achai, Najib Fesali, Denis Iguma (Captain), Patrick Mbowa, Shafik Kagimu, Rogers Mato, Sadat Anaku, Jude Semugabi, Julius Poloto
Substitutes:
Simon Tamale (G.K), Jack Komakech (G.K), Geofrey Wasswa, Musa Ramadhan, Mandela Ashraf, Ibrahim Wamana, Ashraf Mugume, Joackim Ojera, George Kaddu, Mubarak Nsubuga, Brian Aheebwa, Davis Kasirye
Saturday, 25th September (4 PM) – At Mbale Municipal Stadium (Behind closed doors) – Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC TV and All Official Social Media Platforms
The stage is set for Uganda Cranes (team of StarTimes Uganda Premier League) away against Eastern region select side at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday, 25th September 2021.
Uganda Cranes traveled to Mbale on the match eve in the morning and held the last training session later in the evening.
Head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic disclosed that this match will help the national team prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers.
Micho acknowledged that he has very good memories of Eastern Uganda, a side
‘I have fond memories of Eastern Uganda. It is where great talents that have served this country come from like the late Edwin Hasule. The match against the Eastern region will therefore present a perfect test for the locally-based players,’ Micho stated after the last training session.
Uganda Cranes players training at Mbale Municipal Stadium on Friday evening
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Forwards: Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA), Happy Sadat Anaku (KCCA)
Eastern Region select team having a talk session after the training session on Friday, 24th September 2021.
Eastern Region Select Team:
Goalkeepers: Edward Kasibante (Kataka FC), Stephen Mukamba (Mbale Heroes), Wilson Ochepa (Sky Sports)
Defenders: Stephen Namisi (Kataka), Ibrahim Pengere (Admin), Peter Lusumbula (Kataka), Robert Edmond Otim (Admin), Tiff Kahandi (Kataka), Ismail Saadi (Busia young)
Midfielders: Ivan Jakuma (Sky Sports), Francis Odong (Kataka), Bosco Lunyoro, (Mbale Heroes), Raymond Othieno (Admin), Zanuni Mugoya (Admin), Ousama Kayemba (Kataka Academy), Fahadi Aniko (Busia Young),Bonefansio Chediko (Busia Young), Jack Obwana (Mbale Heroes)
Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
*At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM) – Live on 102.1 FUFA f,m, UBC TV & All official FUFA Social media platforms
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic has named the final 23 man team slated to play the Eastern region select at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Stadium.
The team had a single training session in Kampala on Thursday afternoon and will conduct the final training on Friday at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.
Three players; Ashraf Mugume, Sadat Happy Anaku and Rogers Mato were added to the earlier summoned team.
Micho with the players before the training session on Thursday afternoonSome of the players in a talk sessionGoalkeepers Jack Komakech, Simon Tamale and Nafian Alionzi
Meanwhile, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Vianey Ssekajugo, Cromwell Rwothomio, Kenneth Semakula and Steven Mukwala all who had been called up earlier did not make the traveling list, for different reasons.
The team departs for Mbale on Friday morning.
A previous Uganda Cranes’ regional tour to Kitara region at Buhinga play ground in Fort Portal. Due to COVID-19 restrictions fans will not access the Mbale Municipal Stadium but will duly be served with live proceedings via 102.1 FUFA f.m, UBC Television and across all the official social media platforms
The Eastern region tour kick-starts the preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 double header against Rwanda in October 2021.
Rwanda hosts the first leg on 6th October 2021 in Kigali before the return leg at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende four days later.
Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel and Nile Breweries Limited jointly fund the regional tours, also meant to take the national team brand closer to the populous in their respective localities.
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM)
NO FANS ALLOWED IN THE STADIUM DUE TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS
*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA official social media platforms & UBC TV
Eastern region select head coach Godfrey “Toldo” Awachango has named 22 players to face Uganda Cranes in the Regional tour match to be played this Saturday in Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The match set to give Uganda Cranes build up match in the preparations for Rwanda world cup qualifier away and home match scheduled for 7th and 10th October 2021 respectively.
After 3 days training the Eastern select team is playing Mbale Select for Build up friendly match on Thursday at the Mbale Municipal stadium.
The match will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and across the all the official FUFA social media platforms.
Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel Uganda and partner Nile Breweries Limited are the main funders of the Uganda Cranes’ regional tours.
Eastern Region Team:
Goalkeepers: Edward Kasibante (Kataka FC), Stephen Mukamba (Mbale Heroes) and Ochepa Wilson (Sky sports fc)
Defenders:- Stephen Namisi (Kataka), Ibrahim Pengere,(Admin), Peter Lusimbula Captain- (Kataka), Robert Edmond Otim (Admin), Tiff Kahandi (Kataka), Ismail Saadi (Busia young)
Midfielders: Ivan Jakuma (Sky Sports), Francis Odong (Kataka), Bosco Lunyoro, (Mbale Heroes), Raymond Othieno (Admin), Zanuni Mugoya (Admin), Ousama Kayemba (Kataka Academy), Fahadi (Aniko, Busia young ),Bonefansio Chediko (Busia young), Jack Obwana (Mbale Heroes)
Forwards: Lawrence Oloboro (Kataka), Edmond Wamboka (Mbale Heroes), Emmanuel Mukisa (Kataka) and Muhamundu Byafula (Namusula FC)
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Keneth Semakula (SC Villa), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Vianney Sekajugo (URA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police)
Forwards: Cromwell Rwothomio (URA), Steven Desse Mukwala (URA), Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA)
Saturday, 25th September 2021: Eastern Region Select Vs Uganda Cranes
At Mbale Municipal Stadium (4 PM)
*Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA official social media platforms & UBC TV
Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has named the team to face the Eastern region select in regional tours duel at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The team has 25 players (majorly from URA and KCCA Football Clubs). There are also players from SC Villa, Police, UPDF, Soltilo Bright Stars and Wakiso Giants.
‘This is the commencement of the preparations for the Rwanda World Cup Qualifier matches (away on 7th October and at home on 10th October 2021)’ Micho disclosed.
The team will enter camp on Thursday, 23rd September 2021 at the Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi and depart for Mbale on Friday morning ahead of the match slated for Saturday, 25th September 2021 at the Mbale Municipal Stadium.
The match will be relied live on UBC TV, 102.1 FUFA f.m and across the all the official FUFA social media platforms.
Uganda Cranes main sponsors Airtel Uganda and partner Nile Breweries Limited are the main funders of the Uganda Cranes’ regional tours.
Uganda Cranes team to Eastern Uganda:
Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (URA), Simon Tamale (Soltilo Bright Stars), Jack Komakech (Vipers)
Defenders: Innocent Wafula (KCCA), Ashraf Mandela (URA), George Kaddu (Wakiso Giants), Herbert Achai (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Geofrey Wasswa (KCCA), Keneth Semakula (SC Villa), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (SC Villa), Musa Ramathan (KCCA), Najib Fesali (URA), Patrick Mbowa (URA)
Midfielders: Shafik Kagimu (URA), Ibrahim Wamanna (UPDF), Julius Poloto (KCCA), Vianney Sekajugo (URA), Joackim Ojera (URA), Mubaraka Nsubuga (Police)
Forwards: Cromwell Rwothomio (URA), Steven Desse Mukwala (URA), Jude Ssemugabi (Mbarara City), Brian Aheebwa (KCCA), Davis Kasirye (KCCA)
FUFA has continued to follow all necessary steps aimed at bringing live coverage of the National Senior Team- The Uganda Cranes closer to the Television sets for members of public within the territory of Uganda but within the rules and regulations of the game.
Therefore, FUFA granted its Free to Air (FTA) Rights to National Broadcaster Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC TV) to televise the home matches of Uganda Cranes in the ongoing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers with in the territory of Uganda.
The Free-to-air (FTA) services are for Television (TV) and radio services broadcast.
FUFA notifies the general public that no authorisation has been given to any media house in regard to the Free-to Air (FTA) Rights of Uganda Cranes home matches apart from Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC TV).
FUFA further notifies the public that NO other entity has been granted permission to act, deal or negotiate on behalf of FUFA in regard to the Free-to-Air Rights of the Uganda Cranes home matches in the ongoing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers within the territory of Uganda.
We hope this communication is taken into account by the football fraternity.
Uganda Cranes earned their second point in the on-going FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers with a hard fought draw against West Africans Mali at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Monday, 6th September 2021.
In a rain marred game, Uganda finished the game with 10 men following a red card to defender Murushid Juuko in the 69th minute.
The visitors dominated possession for long spells of the game but Uganda did not lose their shape at any stage of the game played behind closed doors.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi was man-marked throughout
Left back Isaac Muleme tested Mali’s goalkeeper with a venomous free-kick from distance in the opening stanza.
This was followed by a similar attempt from second half substitute Mustafa Kizza in the closing stages of the game.
Kizza had replaced Joseph Benson Ochaya on 66 minutes.
Derrick Nsibambi is challenged during an aerial contest
Other players introduced for Uganda Cranes were Innocent Wafula Esimu, Ibrahim Orit, Steven Desse Mukwala and Moses Waiswa Ndohondi.
Uganda Cranes now has two points from two matches played. Mali leads the standings in group with four points while Kenya, like Uganda is also on two points.
Rwanda, the other group E team is bottom with one point.
Uganda Cranes will face Rwanda in the next phase of qualifiers coming in October 2021.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Mali
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Denis Iguma (12), Isaac Muleme (20), Enock Walusimbi (16), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Subs:
Charles Lukwago (18), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (21), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Kenneth Semakula (15)
Monday, September 6, 2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Mali Les Aigles
At St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m & All Official FUFA Social Media platforms
Uganda Cranes starting line-up to face Mali in the group E FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers is out.
There are three changes from the team that started in the goal-less stalemate with Kenya on Thursday.
In goal, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga starts ahead of Charles Lukwago and Joel Mutakubwa.
The other 10 players are; Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Enock Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Milton Karisa, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Derrick Nsibambi and Joseph Benson Ochaya.
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Denis Iguma (12), Isaac Muleme (20), Enock Walusimbi (16), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Subs:
Charles Lukwago (18), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (21), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Kenneth Semakula (15)
A weekend that never had many lads in action at their clubs due to the International break of because of the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup qualifiers.
Nevertheless, 102.1 FUFA Fm’s Ronnie Lusulire who also hosts Tugukyangira Bunayira every Tuesday from 10pm-12Midnight kept close tabs on them to find out how they fared.
USA
Experienced midfielder Mike Azira played full time as his New Mexico side beat Colorado Springs 3-2 in the USL Championship.
US based midfielder Mike Azira in possession of the ball against Derrick Nsibambi during the Friday early morning training
Forward Edward Kizza started before paving way for Caldwell in the 62nd minute as his 10-man New England Revolution pipped Philadelphia Union 1-0 on the road in the Major League Soccer.
PreSeason
Custodian Mathias Kigonya started while Nicholas Wadada came from the bench in second half has their Azam FC side completed their preseason tour in Zambia with a 1-0 victory over Zesco United.
Sweden
Alexis Bbakka started and also saw yellow in the 19th minute before being subbed in the 59th minute for Lundback as his Umea FC lost 4-0 at Karlstad in the Swedish Div. 1 (3rd tier).
Ritah Kivumbi started before coming off for Eriksson in the 60th minute as her Mallbackens Women drew goalless at home to Norrkoping Women in the Elitettan league.
Monday, September 6, 2021: Uganda Cranes Vs Mali Les Aigles (4 PM) – St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Wakiso District
Live on All FUFA Social Media platforms, 102.1 FUFA fm
Uganda Cranes takes to the field of play at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende against Mali during a group E match in the FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers at St Mary’s Stadium, Wakiso on Monday, 6th September 2021.
This will be the fifth ever meeting between these two countries; the latest face-off having been the 1-all draw during the AFCON 2017 finals at Stade De Oyam in Gabon.
Enock Walusimbi and Aucho Khalid sprint during the last training at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
Uganda Cranes has a point after the goal-less draw with Kenya Harambee Stars at the Nyayo National Stadium last Thursday.
Mali leads the standings in group E following their 1-0 win at home against Rwanda 1-0.
The West Africans arrived in the country on Sunday evening and managed to train at the St Mary’s Stadium.
Uganda Cranes players in Camp:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa
Outfield players: Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi, Milton Karisa, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Joseph Benson Ochaya, Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Ibrahim Orit, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala, Derrick Nsibambi, Yunus Sentamu, Mustapha Kizza, Enock Walusimbi, Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Martin Kizza, Kenneth Semakula
Mali players after arriving at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Sunday, 5th September 2021
Uganda Cranes Vs Mali (Monday, 6th September 2021)
At St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende (4 PM)
The Uganda Cranes held a two hour training session at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Saturday, 4th September 2021.
This session involved ball work session and lots of stretches under the head coach Milutin Sredojevic and his entire backroom stafff.
Here is the pictorial from the two hour training session.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi leads the rest of his teammates from the dressing roomsThe ball work warm up drillL-R: Murushi Juuko, Derrick Paul Nsibambi and Yunus Sentamu in trainingGoalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba Kisitu during the work-outs with the goalkeepersThe work-outs
Innocent Wafula in training closed down by Abdu Aziizi Kayondo
Defender Enock Walusimbi in trainingStretchingURA Football Club forward Steven Desse MukwallaPrayer after the training session
The Players at Cranes Paradise Hotel:
Goalkeepers: Charles Lukwago, Isima Bin Rashid Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa
Outfield Players: Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa, Enock Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi, Ibrahim Orit, Milton Karisa, Yunus Sentamu, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Captain), Paul Derrick Nsibambi, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Mustafa Kizza, Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala, Kenneth Semakula, Shafik Kagimu, Martin Kizza
The Uganda Cranes officially kicked off the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers (Group E) with a valuable point away from home against Kenya on Thursday, 2nd September 2022 at the Nyayo National Stadium.
In total, 15 players with attachment to the different clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League were part of the Uganda Cranes 23-man squad in Kenya.
Of these, 6 started the game and 3 others were introduced as 6 were among the un-used substitutes.
Abdu-Aziizi Kayondo, Ibrahim Orit and Innocent Esimu Wafula are all players in the domestic league
Goalkeeper Charles Lukwago (KCCA), Denis Iguma (KCCA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers), Murushid Juuko (Express), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers) and Milton Karisa started the game.
Murushid Juuko (Express)
Milton Karisa (Vipers)
Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC)
Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers)
Denis Iguma (KCCA FC)
Express captain Enock Walusimbi replaced Lwaliwa just after 7 minutes after the latter picked up an injury, Ibrahim Orit replaced Moses Waiswa and last season’s UPL leading scorer striker Yunus Sentamu came on for Milton Karisa.
Express FC Captain Enock Walusimbi (middle) started on the bench but came on as a first half substitute after just seven minutes for Halid Lwaliwa
The unused substitutes were goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa (Express FC), Innocent Wafula Esimu (KCCA FC), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Sports Club Villa), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (Vipers SC), Richard Basangwa (Vipers SC) and Uganda Revenue Authority’s forward Steven Desse Mukwala.
Midfielder Byaruhanga marked his first ever senior start on the national team having gradually made the mark through the FUFA Juniors League (FJL), St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School – Kitende, Uganda U-20 and U-23 teams.
Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers)
Byaruhanga played full time in his third international cap on the senior team after making his debut against South Africa in June 2021 and recently during the build up with Ethiopia at Bahir Dar city.
He attributes this meteoric rise to consistent training, self-belief and adherence to advice from coaches as well as senior players.
“Personally, I am happy that I have been able to play football on the Uganda National senior team. It has always been my dream. Right from school days, I loved to train for extra hours. I am a believer who has it in my mind that I can do it and besides, I always listen to advise from the coaches, former players and senior players’ Byaruhanga testifies.
Defender Walusimbi was playing his second ever international match after the build up with Ethiopia in Bahir Day city.
Against Ethiopia, Walusimbi started at right back before he was replaced at half time.
In his second game, Walusimbi got introduced for the injured Halid Lwaliwa, just five minutes after kick off.
He boldly attributes the steadfast progress on the national team to his partner at the club (Express) and long serving Uganda Cranes defender Murushid Juuko.
‘Juuko and other senior players on the team as Isaac (Muleme) and Iguma (Denis) helped me settle in so fast. Even when I was introduced, they assured me of cover every time I committed myself in a tackle or an aerial challenge’ Walusimbi notes.
The team is already back in the country and will be preparing for the second game against Mali on Monday at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Joel Mutakubwa is a goalkeeper at the reigning UPL champions Express
Steven Desse Mukwala plays for Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Football Club
It should also be noted that the current camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi has three other players who ply in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League as URA FC captain Shafik Kuchi Kagimu, Martin Kizza (Express) and Kenneth Semakula (SC Villa).
How Uganda Cranes lined up against Kenya:
Charles Lukwago (G.K), Denis Iguma, Isaac Muleme, Halid Lwaliwa (5’ Enock Walusimbi), Murushid Juuko, Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (66’ Ibrahim Orit), Milton Karisa (83’ Yunus Sentamu), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 46’ Derrick Paul Nsibambi), Joseph Benson Ochaya (66’ Mustafa Kizza)
Subs Not Used:
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (G.K), Joel Mutakubwa (G.K), Innocent Wafula Esimu, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Abdul Aziizi Kayondo, Richard Basangwa, Steven Desse Mukwala
The Vipers SC duo of Abdu-Aziizi Kayondo and Richard Basangwa
A new track titled Living Football (attached) will be played during the opening home match for Uganda Cranes against Mali in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers on Monday 6th September 2021 at St Mary’s stadium Kitende.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Utt16TFzmR4
FIFA through circular No. 1707 dated 23rd January 2020, encouraged all its 211 Member Associations to make use of the new musical track titled Living Football during its Competitions.
The new track Living Football is composed by Hans Zimmer.
It replaced the old track called World Football Anthem which was composed by Franz Lambert and Pit Loew.
‘Part of the circular reads; FIFA hereby provides you with its consent to make use of the Track (as both a 44-sec and a 90 second edit) for in-stadium infotainment purposes;
When is the new track Living Football played?
1- For each of the Member Association’s home matches that are part of the Qualification process for any FIFA-hosted Competition.
2- During the pre-match flag installation process
3- For any International friendly match
4- At No other time in relation to the said matches
5- While the players walk out onto the pitch prior to the commencement of the;
i. the first half; and/or
ii. the second half of the match
6-Immediately following the conclusion of the first of the match
7-Immediately following the conclusion of the second half of the match.
FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein on the new anthem Living Football.
‘We fulfilled all the necessary steps for clearance by FIFA to use the new track Living Football during FIFA Competitions. It is a wonderful track which sends out a strong message that football touches everyone in societies around the globe irrespective of anyone’s status.’
Uganda will play its second match of the campaign-FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers against West African Country Mali on Monday.
Uganda Cranes kicked off FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign with an away point off the Kenya Harambee Stars during group E at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi.
The two countries huffed and puffed throughout the 90 minutes of the well contested game played under closed doors because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Uganda Cranes started the game on a low tone with an untimely injury to defender Halid Lwaliwa after just five minutes into the game.
Express Football Club captain Enock Walusimbi was introduced at the heart of defence.
Action during the game in the opening half
The visitors had the inaugural attempt on target in the 20th minute from midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga in his first ever start for the national senior team.
Three minutes later, Joseph Ochaya shot off target from 25 yards as Uganda stabilized.
Moses Waiswa had a free-kick fly wide towards the half hour before Milton Karisa was brought down on the edge of the goal area for a contestable penalty decision.
Moses Waiswa passes the ball
Uganda Cranes lost team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi with an injury towards the very end of the first half and it needed fresh legs of Derrick Nsibambi at the start of the final stanza.
There came a double change in the 66th minute when Mustafa Kizza and winger Ibrahim Orit were pushed on for Ochaya and Waiswa respectively.
Khalid Aucho and Olunga vie for the ball during the game
Later, Yunus Sentamu took over Milton Karisa’s place with less than 10 minutes to play.
Uganda earned their first point of the campaign that head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic was contented with.
‘The campaign is officially off and a point is good enough. We still have to iron out goal scoring issues and at one stage, I believe we would have been given a penalty’ Micho noted.
The team returns home on Friday afternoon at 2 PM aboard Ethiopian Airlines and preparations for the Mali game (at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende) take immediate effect.
Uganda Cranes XI
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Charles Lukwago (18), Denis Iguma (KCCA, Uganda), Isaac Muleme (20), Halid Lwaliwa (15), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Uganda Cranes substitute players singing the national anthem
Subs:
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (CF Montréal, Canada), Enock Walusimbi (Express, Uganda)
Team captains with the match officials prior to kick off
Match officials:
Center Referee: Ismail Mahmood Ali Mahmood (Sudan)
1st Assistant Referee: Ibrahim Abdallah Mohammed (Sudan)
2nd Assistant Referee: Abdel Gabar Muhammed (Sudan)
Fourth Official: Fadul Sabri Muhammad (Sudan)
Referee Assessor: Labrosse Jean Claude (Seychelles)
Match Commissioner: Solomon Gebre Selassie (Ethiopia)
Thursday, September 2, 2021: Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes (4 PM)
At Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi – Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The starting line-up for Uganda Cranes against Kenya in the group E FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifier has been confirmed by the head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic.
Charles Lukwago is in goal with Denis Iguma and Isaac Muleme at right and left full back roles respectively.
Halid Lwaliwa and Murushid Juuko are the two central defenders.
Khalid Aucho, Bobosi Byaruhanga and Moses Waiswa Ndhondhi play as the three central midfielders.
Team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Milton Karisa and Joseph Benson Ochaya are at the fore-front on the attack force.
The other twelve players are on the bench and will be introduced according to demand as deemed by the technical team.
Uganda Cranes XI (Shirt Numbers in Brackets):
Charles Lukwago (18), Denis Iguma (12), Isaac Muleme (20), Halid Lwaliwa (15), Murushid Juuko (4), Khalid Aucho (8), Bobosi Byaruhanga (6), Moses Waiswa Ndohondi (23), Milton Karisa (13), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi – Captain, 7), Joseph Benson Ochaya (2)
Subs:
Isima Bin Rashid Watenga (19), Joel Mutakubwa (1), Innocent Wafula Esimu (14), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (5), Abdul Aziizi Kayondo (3), Ibrahim Orit (11), Richard Basangwa (22), Steven Desse Mukwala (10), Derrick Nsibambi (9), Yunus Sentamu (17), Mustapha Kizza (21), Enock Walusimbi (16)
Match officials:
Center Referee: Ismail Mahmood Ali Mahmood (Sudan)
1st Assistant Referee: Ibrahim Abdallah Mohammed (Sudan)
2nd Assistant Referee: Abdel Gabar Muhammed (Sudan)
Fourth Official: Fadul Sabri Muhammad (Sudan)
Referee Assessor: Labrosse Jean Claude (Seychelles)
Match Commissioner: Solomon Gebre Selassie (Ethiopia)
Thursday, 2nd September 2021 – Kenya Harambee Stars Vs Uganda Cranes
At Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi (4 PM)
Kenya Harambee Stars entertain Uganda Cranes in the group E of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers.
This match will be played at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on Thursday, 2nd September 2021.
Uganda eyes for a victory and close up Mali who won their opening game against Rwanda on 1st September 2021 in Morocco.
Head coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic and team captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi expressed their readiness to face Kenya and come top with maximum points.
Uganda Cranes captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and head coach Micho at Nyayo National Stadium, NairobiThe last training session for Uganda Cranes at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi
‘We have assembled a team that will compete. Derbies are always determined by the slightest details. We want to pay keen attention to such details and win the game’ Micho noted.
Team captain Okwi maintained that football is a game of collective responsibility and thus preached teamwork.
‘As we face Kenya, I am captain and only wear the arm. But, the rest of my teammates are all captains as we fight for our country. We seek a good start as we face Kenya on Thursday’ Okwi observed.
The Uganda Cranes players stretch during the last training session at Nyayo National Stadium
Uganda Cranes had pitched camp in Ethiopia for acclimatization and held an international build up against the hosts staged at the Bahir Dar International Stadium.
Yunus Sentamu scored Uganda Cranes’ consolation during the match that ended 2-1; from which Micho picked key learning points.
‘A football game is far better than 30 training sessions. We have seen where we need to improve coming to the Kenya and Mali games’ Micho observed.
The match will be officiated by FIFA Referees from Sudan.
The official pre-match meeting at Nyayo National Stadium, NairobiThe show off of both team jerseys during the official pre-match meeting at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on the match eve
Uganda Cranes:
Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Chippa United, South Africa), Charles Lukwago (KCCA, Uganda), Joel Mutakubwa (Express, Uganda)
