The Uganda Cranes opponents (Cape Verde) for the penultimate AFCON 2019 group L qualifier this Saturday at Mandela National Stadium have safely arrived on Thursday afternoon.
The delegation of 35 people with 24 players and 11 officials was received by the FUFA Protocol team that had Richard Nandigobe and delegate Sande Moni.
They were driven to Sheraton Kampala Hotel in Kampala where they are to be accommodated for the duration of their stay in the country.
“We are happy to be in Uganda. We shall play our best against Uganda which I am aware are a good side” Cape Verde head coach Rui Aguas disclosed to the media in an interview held at Entebbe International Airport.
Cape Verde players and officials at Entebbe International Airport
The team is expected to conduct their last training on Friday (starting at 4 PM) at Namboole.
Meanwhile, the Uganda Cranes team trained on Thursday afternoon at Namboole and will engage the media during the press conference before their Friday morning training.
Team captain Denis Onyango and head coach Sebastien Desabre are expected to address the media at the Namboole board room before the team will perfect their last training.
In a bid to ensure order before, during and after the Total AFCON Cameroon 2019 qualifier between Uganda Cranes and Cape Verde at Mandela National Stadium, fans have been urged to follow the set guidelines by the security agencies, the stadium management as well as the FUFA International Match organizing committee.
Addressing the media during a special press conference held at Lugogo on Wednesday, the Deputy RPC Kampala East Asp. Bashir Ssempala urged the fans to come on time and avoid the last minute rush.
Deputy RPC Kampala East Asp. Bashir Ssempala
In the same vein, Asp. Ssempala advised fans to avoid wearing linen with political messages as well as avoid carrying eats and drinks in bottles to the stadium.
“We expect a very big number of fans who are willing to come to cheer the Uganda Cranes. I advise the fans to come on time and avoid the last minute rush. Each fan will be screened outside the entrance of the stadium. We urge fans to comply with the set regulations. Fans will not be allowed to jump to the stadium playing surface due to excitement” Ssempala advised.
Kampala Metropolitan Traffic Police Commander, Norman Musinga address the media as the FUFA Communications manager Ahmed Hussein looks on
Meanwhile, to ensure easy traffic flow, the different catergories of fans were also given different directives as delivered by the Kampala Metropolitan Traffic Police Commander, Norman Musinga;
There are cut off points at Jokas and Kireka to ensure easy movement and flow of traffic to the stadium. Jinja road to Kampala main route will be normal. From Wampewo round about to Kireka will be normal traffic flow. The Northern by-pass, Kinawata – Jinja Highway will also be normal traffic flow. The road will be blocked at Kireka and Jokas to make sure that the fans access the stadium with ease. VVIP’s will use the main gate with their stickers and park inside the stadium as directed by the traffic police officers on duty. The VIPS will access the stadium via the Namboole round about and park at the Namboole stadium lower parking. Emergency vehicles that include ambulances, fire brigade and medical team will access the venue through the exit route. The general public is encouraged to use public transport (taxis, buses and the train) to avoid traffic congestion. Every one is encourage to adhere to the set guidelines.
No Tickets will be sold at the stadium
Issa Magoola, the chairperson of the FUFA International Match Organizing committee
Chairperson of the FUFA International Match Organizing Committee, Issa Magoola issued the travel itinerary for the match officials and the visiting delegation from Cape Verde.
The Cape Verde delegation has already confirmed to arrive in the country on Thursday, 15th November 2018 at 2 PM aboard Emirates Airlines. They will be accommodated at Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The match officials from Tunisia also arrive on Thursday at 3 PM.
In the same vein, the FUFA Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Humphrey Mandu rallied upon all fans to come and cheer up the Uganda Cranes in action against Cape Verde;
Uganda Cranes will be in action against Caper Verde in one of the most important games for the country. The players need the full backing of the fans at all times. I therefore call upon the Ugandans to come up in big numbers and support the team.
FUFA Communications manager Ahmed Hussein confirms some details with the Traffic and Police chiefsWell attended press conference at Lugogo in Kampala
MAIN PHOTO: L-R; SSP Norman Musinga, SP Bashir Sempala, Issa Magoola and Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu pose for a group photo moments after the press conference at Lugogo on Wednesday.
With three days left to the 2019 AFCON Qualifier between Uganda Cranes and Cape Verde on Saturday at Namboole, two football loving cultural leaders have poured their support toward the National team.
Uganda Cranes need a point off Cape Verde to qualify for the AFCON Finals to be hosted by Cameroon in 2019.
On Tuesday the Katikkiro of Buganda Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga and the Omukama of Tooro Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV came out in full support of the game as they urged fans to continuously show their love and passion for the Uganda Cranes.
Omukama of Tooro Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV (2nd L) with FUFA Executive Member, Chairman of Marketing and Communications Committee, Delegate Edgar Agaba, a Palace official and former Sc Villa star Allan Papok holding the Uganda Cranes jersey.
FUFA presented original Uganda Cranes jerseys to the cultural leaders. FUFA Executive Member, Head of Marketing and Communications Rogers Byamukama and Kitara Region Delegate Edgar Agaba delivered the souvenir to the Omukama of Tooro at his Palace in Munyonyo.
Royal moment: FUFA Executive member Rogers Byamukama with Omukama of Tooro Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV
FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein and Marketing Director Esther Musoke handed over the Cranes jersey to the Katikkiro at Bulange.
What the Cultural leaders said about the Uganda Cranes vs Cape Verde match
Omukama of Tooro Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV
‘I am happy that the youths are succeeding on the international front through sports. This is in line with my ambassadorial role of fighting HIV/AIDS prevalence amongst the youths. I will be in Namboole to support the Uganda Cranes’
Katikkiro of Buganda Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga
‘I know we need a point but Onyango and his teammates should be aiming at winning the match. We have a very good team. We have a dream of making back to back appearances at the AFCON. I would like to invite all fans to the match. I will wear shirt 18 of goalkeeper Denis Onyango on Saturday’
Both cultural leaders thanked FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo for taking football to another level in the country.
The Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga displaying the Uganda Cranes jersey. He has promised to have number 18 and the name Onynago printed on the back of the shirt in time for Saturday’s match between Uganda Cranes and Cape Verde at Namboole stadiumThe Katikkiro of Buganda receives Charles Peter Mayiga receives the Invitation to the match due on Saturday. FUFA’s Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein handed over the invitation to Katikkiro.
MAIN PHOTO: The Katikkiro of Buganda (M) receiving an original Uganda Cranes jersey presented to him by FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein and Marketing Director Esther Musoke at Bulange on Tuesday afternoon
Uganda Cranes officially kicked off with preparations on Friday morning as part of the training sessions for the Total AFCON qualifier match with Cape Verde on 17th November 2018 at Mandela National Stadium.
The training session started at 11:00am with 18 players (local and foreign based all in the new Mafro branded training kits) who went through physical drills at the StarTimes Stadium in Lugogo.
Uganda Cranes players in training at Lugogo on Friday Morning. The Cranes embarked on field preparations for the Cape Verde fixture in the AFCON 2019 qualifiers next Saturday on November 17th 2018.
The group of local based players had Allan Kyambadde (KCCA FC) Kaddu Patrick (KCCA FC), Sadam Juma (KCCA FC), Isaac Isinde (Kirinya JSSS FC), Timothy Awany (KCCA FC), Moses Waiswa (Vipers SC), Taddeo Lwanga (Vipers SC), Vianne Sekajugo (Onduparaka FC), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC), Nicolas Sebwato (Onduparaka FC), Daniel Serunkuuma (Vipers SC), Ambrose Kirya (SC Villa) and Yayo Lutimba (Vipers SC)
The foreign based players who attended training were led by assistant Captain Hassan Wasswa (Al Geish), Murushid Juuko (Simba FC), Emanuel Okwi (Simba FC) Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC).
L-R Hassan Wasswa, Sadam Juma and Dan Serunkuuma during Uganda Cranes training at Lugogo on Friday Morning. The Cranes embarked on preparations for the Cape Verde fixture in the AFCON 2019 qualifiers next Saturday on November 17th 2018.
‘We have done our first training with mainly the local based players and some few from outside the country. We expect other players to join us tomorrow before we have a buildup game against the U23 team on Sunday Morning (10am) at Lugogo. We shall have our final list of 24 players for residential camp by Monday. The players are in good shape and we hope to increase the pase of the training’ said Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre
Uganda Cranes coach Sebastien Desabre (R) issuing instructions during training at Lugogo on Friday Morning. Dan Serunkuma keenly follows.
‘Our first training always wakes up the players’ bodies and it is when we know who to play with and probably coordinate with new players. We are motivated and we hope to do our homework well tactically as the coaches will direct us. I decided to join the National team early because our match against Al Ahly on Sunday was cancelled’ said Wasswa
L-R Uganda Cranes players Yayo Lutimba, Murushid Jjuuko, Hassan Wasswa and Nicholas Wadada in training at Lugogo on Friday Morning.
Training resumes tomorrow Saturday 10th November at StarTimes Stadium with just one session at 11am.
Uganda Cranes is leading Group L with 10 points and will only need a point to qualify for the 2019 AFCON Finals in Cameroon.
Uganda won the first match (0-1) away in Praia with striker Geoffrey Serunkuma netting the game’s solitary goal.
Tickets on market
Tickets for the match are already on market at 150,00/= ordinary, 40,000/= VIP, 150,000/= VVP
Uganda Cranes players in training at Lugogo on Friday Morning. L-R AllanKyambadde, Tadeo Lwanga and Vianne Sekajugo
Meanwhile, the Cranes will travel to Nigeria for a highly profiled friendly match on Tuesday 20th November against the 2015 AFCON Champions.
MAIN PHOTO:Uganda Cranes players warming up during training at Lugogo on Friday Morning ahed of the AFCON Qualifier with Cape Verde on 17th November 2018
Total 2019 AFCON Qualifiers: 17th November 2018: Uganda vs Cape Verde at Namboole stadium
Friendly match: 20th November 2018 Nigeria vs Uganda at Asaba Stadium
Training Programme for Uganda Cranes: Starts 9th November 2018 with local based players at Luogo
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre has named his squad for the 2nd last Group L 2019 AFCON Qualifier with Cape Verde on 17th November 2018 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
‘The non residential training programme will start on 9th November with 14 local based players at Lugogo. The 16 foreign based players summoned will join camp as per FIFA stipulated international break rules’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein
Cranes have two matches lined up starting with the 2019 AFCON Qualifier against Cape Verde then face Nigeria on 20th November in a friendly game away at Asaba Stadium.
Uganda Cranes Coach Sebastien Desabre during the team’s training. He is on the brink of taking the team to AFCON Finals.
Uganda Cranes top Group L with ten points and need just one point from the remaining two fixtures to make back to back appearance at the AFCON Finals under the administration of historical FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo.
Uganda Cranes Squad
Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC) and Nicholas Sebwato (Onduparaka FC), Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS), Murushid Juuko (Simba SC), Timothy Awanyi (KCCA FC), Denis Iguma (Kazma FC), Nicholas Wadada (Azam FC), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs) FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood), Bernard Muwanga (KCCA FC), Yayo Kato Lutimba (Vipers SC), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe), Hassan Wasswa (El Geish), Khalid Aucho(Church Hill Brothers, India), Ibrahim Saddam Juma (KCCA FC), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City), Faruku Miya (Gorica ), Ambrose Kirya (Sc Villa), Moses Waisswa (Vipers Sc), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA FC), Dan Serunkuma (Vipers SC), Vianne Sekajugo (Onduparaka FC), Emma Okwi (Simba SC), Edrisa Lubega (SV Ried), Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha), Patrick Kaddu (KCCA FC)
MAIN PHOTO: Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and Faruku Miya celebrate one of the three goals against Lesotho.
FUFA has confirmed that an international friendly has been lined up for Uganda Cranes to play Nigeria Super Eagles at Asaba Stadium on Tuesday 20th November 2018.
The match will come three days after the 2019 Total Nations cup qualifier between Uganda Cranes and Cape Verde at Namboole stadium.
The latest development has been confirmed by the FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein.
‘The Uganda Cranes technical team will make use of the FIFA International break that runs from 12th-20th November by playing a high profile friendly with the former African Champions. Matches between these two soccer giants have always been so close since time immemorial’ said Hussein.
‘A 30man contingent will depart on 18th November 2018 for the trip to Nigeria. The foreign based players in the contingent will then connect to their respective clubs after the friendly’ added Hussein
Both Nations will field National A men’s teams. The two teams last met in 2015 when Uganda Cranes edged the Super Eagles 1-0 at Ibo Akwa Stadium.
MAIN PHOTO:Uganda Cranes Starting XI that faced Nigeria in 2015
The first lady of Uganda, also the Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni has specially congratulated the Uganda Cranes upon the recent back to back victories over the Lesotho national football team in the group L 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
Uganda Cranes overcame the Southern Africa country 3-0 and 2-0 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole and at Setsoto stadium in Maseru respectively to accumulate 10 points after 4 games in the campaign, leaving Uganda with just a point within qualification to the 2019 finals that will be staged in Cameroon.
Emmanuel Okwi netted twice and Faruku Miya (penalty) were on target in the Namboole game as Miya carried the day with a brace in the return leg played on artificial surface in Maseru.
The Uganda Cranes contingent to Maseru traveled by a chartered flight offered by President Yoweri Kaguta Mueveni which helped a lot the national team to travel with ease within three days of the return leg after the Namboole success.
Here is the First Lady’s detailed message:
I must begin by thanking God for his goodness and for empowering our boys and leading them as we now see. Then, of course, I congratulate them for emerging victorious during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier return match against Lesotho 2-0 on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 in Lesotho, after the previous win of 3-0 at Mandela National Stadium on Saturday 13th October 2018. Our national team’s performance has been very impressive putting us on the verge of qualifying for the 2019 AFCON Championships due in Cameroon.
On behalf of Government, my Ministry and all the people of Uganda, I salute the Uganda Cranes, Coach Sebastien Desabre and his Technical Team, FUFA, National Council of Sports, and the fans for the observable progress we have registered in performance and development of Ugandan football, and indeed Ugandan sports in general.
As we celebrate our recent performance, I call upon the players, technical officials, fans and supporters to remain humble, focused to the very end. For I believe that this is merely the beginning, the best is yet to come.
In a very special way, I thank the President of Uganda, Cabinet in its entirety and Parliament for supporting sports in general, but the president especially for providing quick means of transport to Lesotho and some support for our pocket expenses to the team. We, at the Ministry, remain committed to provide all the prayer back up, logistical and financial support to Ugandan sports teams within available resources.
May I wish the Uganda Cranes team, continued blessings and a successful AFCON 2019 qualification campaign, therefore, as we look forward to an even brighter future for Ugandan sports.
The victorious Uganda Cranes contingent that traveled to Lesotho for the 2019 Total AFCON qualifier safely returned home on Wednesday afternoon.
The group set foot at Entebbe International Airport aboard the chartered flight facilitated by the Government of Uganda at around 3:15 PM in great moods following a 2-0 away win over Lesotho at the Setsoto stadium in Maseru city with Faruku Miya scoring both goals.
They were received by FUFA officials led by the third Vice President Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, who is also the State Minister for Youth and Children affairs.
The FUFA President followed by some MP’s are recieved at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday by Hon Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Finance Director Decolas Kiiza
FUFA Finance Director Decolas Kiiza and Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein were also at the tarmac to receive the team Football Delegates and several FUFA staff were also in Entebbe.
‘We are very delighted for the two back to back wins against Lesotho. Winning 3-0 at home and 2-0 away was superb as we get closer to AFCON 2019 qualification’ Nakiwala stated.
Majority of the players on board were locally based since some foreign based players connected straight from the Moshoeshoe International Airport in Maseru to their respective destinations to return to their clubs.
Uganda Cranes Head coach Sebastien Desabre disembarking from the plane. He closely followed by National Council of Sports Ag. General Secretary Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel.
Goalkeepers Salim Jamal and Charles Lukwago, Sadam Ibrahim Juma, Derrick Nsibambi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Khalid Aucho, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Moses Waiswa, Isaac Isinde, Timothy Dennis Awany, Tadeo Lwanga, Allan Kyambadde, Patrick Henry Kaddu are some of the players who returned home on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, other players like Miya, Edrisa Lubega, Godfrey Walusimbi, team captain Dennis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Murushid Jjuuko, Dennis Iguma, Allan Kateregga connected to their respective clubs where they ply their trade.
Addressing the media moments after checking through the immigration department at Entebbe International Airport, head coach Sebastien Desabre appreciated the effort of the players for the job well done.
The players led by Vipers Sports Club captain Tadeo Lwanga
‘We played with a target to get maximum points in the two legs against Lesotho. We achieved it and we remain focused to qualify for AFCON 2019. I thank the players, technical team, FUFA, fans and the Government’ Desabre told the media.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre talking to the media in Entebbe
Emmanuel Okwi, like the head coach narrated the targets they had set – winning the two back to back matches, which gave them an advantage coming to the final two matches.
‘It is good that the players had a target and achieved it. There are two more matches and we should not relax, we need two more wins to finish top’ Okwi, who plays for Simba Sports Club in Tanzania stated.
Uganda Cranes striker Emma Okwi talking to the media at Entebbe International Airport
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo once again reminded the media about the genesis of the federation’s plans when he took over office in 2013.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo addressing the media
‘These results are not by accident. They are a result of planning. We held a symposium in 2015 attended by the Vice President of Uganda, Hon. Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi. We set ourselves targets and how to achieve them. These are some of the fruits. We have not yet qualified for AFCON 2019, but the prime objective remains to qualify when we secure at least a point in the remaining two matches. Eng. Magogo disclosed.
Some of the support staff to the technical team Dr Ivan Sewanyana and goalkeeping coach Fred KajobaHassan Wasswa Mawanda is greeted by the FUFA Officials officials
Uganda Cranes will get back to action on 17th November 2019 at Namboole Stadium against Cape Verde.
Faruku Miya scored a brace as Uganda Cranes out-muscled Lesotho Likuena (The Crocodiles) 2-0 at the Setsoto stadium in Maseru Stadium on Tuesday night.
Miya opened the scoring as early as the 5th minute with a thunderous shot after good inter-play with Allan Kateregga and Emmanuel Okwi off the right flank.
The Croatian based forward playing alongside KCCA’s Patrick Henry Kaddu added the second in the 36th minute with a superbly taken free-kick after a foul on Okwi on the left flank.
Half time ended with Uganda carrying a 2-0 goal cushion and it necessitated gallant defending from the visitors as Lesotho surged forward for at least a goal back.
Goalkeeper Dennis Onyango and the entire defence had to be alert throughout the second half with explicit defending.
In the second half, the technical team headed by Sebastien Desabre rung a couple of changes which witnessed left winger Allan Kateregga paving way for Egyptian based Isaac Muleme.
Two goal hero Miya who had been booked was replaced by Moses Waiswa and industrious Patrick Henry Kaddu was rested for Edirsa Lubega.
Action between Uganda Cranes and Lesotho Likuena at Setsoto stadium, Maseru on Tuesday night
Uganda is now on the brink of within a point of qualification for the 2019 AFCON finals with the last two matches against Cape Verde (home) and Tanzania (away).
A large fraction of Ugandans who traveled by the chartered flight from Entebbe and those living in Lesotho cheered the Cranes from start to finish.
Meanwhile Tanzania overcame Cape Verde to ascend to 5 points, Cape Verde remains on 4 and Lesotho just two points off four matches.
Meanwhile the Uganda Cranes team departs Lesotho back home on Wednesday morning from Maseru Airport.
Most of the foreign based players have also returned to the respective clubs.
Uganda Cranes will return to action next month, on 16th November 2018 against Cape Verde at the Mandela National Stadium.
Uganda Cranes XI vs Lesotho in Maseru
Team Line ups:
Uganda Cranes XI:
Denis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Murushid Juuko, Dennis Iguma, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Khalid Aucho, Faruku Miya (75′ Moses Waiswa), Patrick Henry Kaddu (84′ Edrisa Lubega), Allan Kateregga (58′ Isaac Muleme)
Subs Not Used:
Jamal Salim, Charles Lukwago, Isaac Isinde, Timothy Denis Awanyi, Joseph Benson Ochaya, Ibrahim Sadam Juma, Tadeo Lwanga, Milton Karisa, Allan Kyambadde, Derrick Nsibambi
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
Uganda Cranes has a chance to seal the 2019 AFCON slot on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 with a victory away to Lesotho (provided Tanzania fails to beat Cape Verde in Dar es salaam).
Currently, the Cranes have 7 points from three matches (two wins and one draw) as they seek maximum points over the Southern Africa country.
Last Saturday, Uganda Cranes beat Lesotho 3-0 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
A chartered flight facilitated by the Government of Uganda enabled the team reach Maseru on Sunday well in time of the Tuesday game.
They were checked in at the Avani Hotel in Maseru, a 5 minute drive from the Setsoto Stadium.
On Sunday evening, the team held a one hour recovery session meant to help the players stretch the muscles after 90 minutes of action on Saturday and a six hour flight from Entebbe International Airport with a stop over in Lusaka, Zambia.
The final session was held on Monday evening (same time of the match) for one hour with emphasis stressed on prolific finishing in the final third of the field.
Uganda Cranes players in their final training session on the astro turf of Setsoto Stadium on Monday evening
“We have had two good training sessions in Lesotho at the Setsoto stadium. The players are all in shape and focused for the game. We have the quality and happy for their response” Head coach, Sebastien Desabre disclosed to www.fufa.co.ug after the Monday session.
Defender Murushid Jjuuko, suspended during the first leg because of accumulated cautions is available for selection alongside the other 23 players.
The coach has kept the starting eleven closer to his chest.
“We know the reason why we traveled to Lesotho. The morale is high in the camp and this is good motivation for us as players.” vice captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda disclosed.
The match will be officiated by FIFA referees from Comoros.
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Ali Mohammed Adelaid
1st Assistant Referee: Soulaimane Amaldine
2nd Assistant Referee: Said Omar Chebli.
Uganda Cranes Players Available for Selection:
Goalkeepers:Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Defenders: Murushid Juuko (Simba SC, Tanzania), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (El Geish, Egypt), Dennis Iguma (Kazma FC, Kuwait), Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS, Uganda), FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood, Egypt), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Church Hill Brothers, India), Moses Waiswa (Vipers Sc, Uganda), Joseph Benson Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA FC, Uganda), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City, South Africa), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda, Morocco), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA, Uganda),
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President Eng. Moses Magogo has saluted the Government of Uganda for the timely financial and logistical support over time for the Federation and Uganda Cranes in particular.
Speaking from Avani Maseru Hotel in Maseru city, Lesotho where the Uganda Cranes team is currently camped prior to the Total AFCON 2019 qualifier against the home country on Tuesday, Eng. Magogo specifically thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni-Minister of Education and Sports for the timely support of Shs 200M and a chartered flight to Lesotho, where commercial flights are a menace.
Eng. Moses Magogo’s full interview:
We would like to thank the Government for the support they have given us. Traveling in Africa is not an everyday thing especially the level of infrastructure of our Continent.
There are some countries which are very difficult to reach to especially by public transport. The countries that are well off have been doing this very perfectly.
I would love to inform the public that our plea to the head of state was answered by a chartered flight. We left on Sunday morning with about 99 people on board including players, officials, fans and the media.We had a stop over in Zambia until we reached well in Maseru.
Surely, we can not ask for more and the players understand this, they appreciate. Gone are the days when some people were pulling and others pushing. Now, we all seem to be pushing together.
This is just the beginning of very many things to come. In 2014, we had an ambition of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019.
The target seemed to be far initially. Of course, there was the 2017 AFCON campaign. This was merely a learning curve for us. There are targets we set alongside accomplishing the 8 pillars of football development that we had to address and i am sure that some of these have been addressed especially educating club coaches which train the players from where the head coach selects.
We wanted qualification to AFCON to become an everyday routine but rather not as a benchmark to weigh the successes of FUFA. Let us wait for the positive results and we believe we shall achieve them like anticipated, then we step up the next gear. There is the the element of heading to AFCON to compete and qualifying for Qatar World Cup 2022 among other targets.
The most important thing has been our will to thank Allah for the guidance, wisdom and health for what we have achieved and not achieved. Most importantly, has been the new aspect of planning. There is a total plan and this is being executed to the dot.
Uganda Cranes face Lesotho Likuena (Crocodiles) at the Setsoto Stadium on Tuesday night in a match where maximum points for the Cranes will further enlighten the chances of a return to AFCON, following the 2017 success script to the finals hosted in Gabon. when Uganda appeared the continental show piece for the first time since 1978.
FUFA Executive Committee member Richard Ochom is the Head of Delegation for the Ugandan contingent in Lesotho.
Uganda Cranes striker Emmanuel Arnold Okwi greets the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo moments after alighting from the chartered plane, offered by Government to transport the team from Uganda to Lesotho. Following Okwi is striker Edrisa Lubega
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre believes and has the hope that his charges will work for the best result on Tuesday during the return leg against Lesotho Crocodiles.
‘We have the quality to match Lesotho. It is very important to see that we win the game because the objective is to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon. About the Setsoto stadium artificial surface, our players have played on such surface especially the KCCA FC and Vipers SC players. Concerning the weather, many have faced this cold weather like those who play in South Africa, we shall match them’ Desabre spoke ahead of the Tuesday training session.
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre (with shades) moments after arrival at Maseru Airport
After arrival in Lesotho aboard a chartered flight, the team checked in at Avani Maseru Hotel.
The first session on Sunday afternoon was more of a recovery one with all the 11 players who started on Saturday granted a light session with a lot of stretching under assistant coach Mathias Lule and trainer Gerome D’Antonio.
Meanwhile, the players who started on the bench were involved in a ball work session as well as body stretching drills under Desabre.
After the session, two goal hero in the 3-0 home win, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi had a brief interview with the media as he underlined the team’s bold clear intentions in Maseru.
Avani Maseru Hotel is where the Uganda Cranes team is accomodated
‘We are yearning to return to the AFCON. Every player has that focus. We are determined. Personally, I am motivated by the two goals i scored and this is a confidence booster’ stated Okwi.
The team’s last training session will be held on Monday at the Setsoto stadium.
TOTAL Africa Cup of Nations Cameroon 2019 Qualifiers (Group L):
Tuesday, 16th October 2018
Lesotho Vs Uganda Cranes
At Setsoto Stadium, Maseru
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
The Uganda Cranes delegation for the return leg of the 2019 Total AFCON group L qualifier safely arrived in Maseru, the capital city of Lesotho on Sunday afternoon.
The contingent of over 70 people departed Entebbe International Airport at 7.50am on a chartered flight Boeing 737-500.
On board were all the 24 players who made the training camp at Kabira Country Club in Bukoto, the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, Government Officials, some members of the FUFA Executive, delegates, staff, Members of Parliament, media personnel, some fans and other Government officials.
Moses Waisswa and Charles Lukwago alight from the team plane
With an hour stop over in Lusaka, Zambia, the contingent finally reached Maseru Airport at 2 PM local time, welcomed by very chilly weather conditions.
Uganda Cranes team manager Chrispus Muyinda as well as former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Posnett Omony were in Maseru to receive the team.
After checking in at the airport through the immigration procedure, the team embarked on a 20 minute road journey to – Avani Maseru Hotel.
Posnett Omony (left) with Dennis Onyango at Maseru Airport. Omony was part of the team that received the Uganda Cranes in Maseru alongside Crispus MuyindaJoseph Ochaya wheels off his luggage to Avani Hotel in Maseru city booked for Uganda CranesUganda Cranes players checking in at Avani Hotel in Maseru
‘We arrived safely and everyone is in perfect condition. The journey was good and we thank our President, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the chartered flight offer. We pray that we achieve the best of results here in Maseru as we work towards securing qualification to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon’ Richard Ochom, the Head of delegation noted.
Later in the evening, the team held their opening training session at the Setsoto stadium (artifical surface) under very cold conditions.
‘The two goals i scored in Kampala were a confidence booster. We are all ready for the match on Tuesday. We traveled well and managed to have one training session on Sunday ahead of the last session on Monday. The confidence is high and we shall work as a unit’ Emmanuel Okwi, scorer of a brace in the 3-0 home win stated.
The team will hold the last training on Monday (7 PM) at the Setsoto stadium.
TOTAL Africa Cup of Nations Cameroon 2019 Qualifiers (Group L):
Tuesday, 16th October 2018
Lesotho Vs Uganda Cranes
At Setsoto Stadium, Maseru
*Live on 102.1 FUFA fm and all official FUFA Social media platforms
A delegation of 70 people including 24 players left the country for Lesotho on Sunday morning aboard a chartered flight offered by the head of state, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The group departed Entebbe International Airport with players, technical staff, FUFA Executive Committee members, FUFA delegates, Government officials and some fans aboard.
The group is expected to arrive in Maseru afternoon (around 2 PM local time).
Uganda Cranes players at Entebbe International Airport on Sunday morning
The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo is part of the delegation.
The Leader of Delegation is Richard Ochom from North East Region FA.
Uganda Cranes face Lesotho on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 at the Setsoto stadium in the return tie of the double header whose first leg was won 3-0 by the hime team to reclaim top spot in group L.
The Traveling Contingent:
Players:
Goalkeepers: Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Defenders: Murushid Juuko (Simba SC, Tanzania), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (El Geish, Egypt), Dennis Iguma (Kazma FC, Kuwait), Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS, Uganda), FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood, Egypt), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Church Hill Brothers, India), Moses Waiswa (Vipers Sc, Uganda), Joseph Benson Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA FC, Uganda), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City, South Africa), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda, Morocco), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA, Uganda),
TOTAL 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers (Group L)
Uganda Cranes 3-0Lesotho Likuena
Uganda Cranes was unstoppable on Saturday, defeating Lesotho 3-0 during the Total 2019 Africa Cup of Nations group L qualifier at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Emmanuel Arnold Okwi scored twice and Faruku Miya got the other from rhe penalty spot.
Okwi’s opener arrived as early as the 10th minute with a well drilled left footed shot.
Uganda Cranes XI against Lesotho
Miya added the second with a successful kick from the penalty spot after a foul on the impressive Okwi in the 36th minute.
In the second half, Okwi headed home the third goal after a decent cross from the left by Edrisa Lubega.
Uganda Cranes technical team made all the three changes in the game.
Ibrahim Sadam Juma replaced Joseph Ochaya after 58 minutes, Lubega was taken off for Patrick Henry Kaddu in the 70th minute and Isaac Muleme came on for Moses Waiswa with four minutes to the final whistle.
Emmanuel Arnold Okwi and Faruku Miya celebrate one of the three goals on Saturday. The two players were both on targetMoses Waiswa beats two Lesotho players Tumelo Khutlang (left) and Tsepo Toloane (right) during the game
Uganda Cranes returns to the summit of group L with 7 points off three matches.
Cape Verde who defeated Tanzania 3-0 in Praia on Friday drop back ro second position with four points.
Tanzania and Lesotho both have two points each.
Meanwhile, Uganda Cranes will on Sunday morning (7am) fly out of the country for the completion of the back ro back fixture.
The return match will be played on Tuesday, 16th October 2018 in Maseru.
Uganda Cranes players acknowledge the supporters after the game at Namboole StadiumInspection of the teams prior to kick off
Uganda Cranes XI:
Denis Onyango, Nico Wakiro Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Dennis Iguma, Khalid Aucho, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Moses Waiswa (84’ Isaac Muleme), Faruku Miya, Edrisa Lubega (70’ Henry Patrick Kaddu), Joseph Benson Ochaya (58’ Ibrahim Sadam Juma)
Substitutes Not Used:
Jamal Salim, Charles Lukwago, Isaac Isinde, Tadeo Lwanga, Allan Kateregga, Milton Karisa, Allan Kyambadde, Timothy Denis Awanyi, Derrick Nsibambi
Likano Mputhi (G.K), Samuel Khetsekile (G.K), Kapano Tseka, Tsotleho Paul Jane, Setho Moshoeshoe, Thabo Seakhoa, Masoabi Synous Nkoto
Suspended: Bokang Sello
Match officials with the captains of the two countries; Dennis Onyango (second from left) and Mafa Moremoholo (second right)
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Ali Mohammed Adelaid
First Assistant Referee: Samir Gamal Saad
Second Assistant Referee: Mahmoud El Regal
Uganda Cranes fans passionately cheer during the gameThe technical bench led by head coach Sebastien DesabreThe Namboole stadium score had the nitty gritty of the final outcome
The players and members of the technical team in ball work drills during the last training session
The stage is set at the historic Mandela National Stadium as the mighty Uganda Cranes host Lesotho national football team, popularly known as Likuena (The Crocodiles) this Saturday.
Uganda Cranes will proudly don the newly designed jersey, manufactured by kits company Mafro for the first time.
This is the first leg of 2019 Total African Cup of Nations (AFCON) group L qualifier for the double header whose return leg will take place in Maseru on Tuesday, 16th October 2018.
Owing to the level of preparations since the Uganda Cranes kicked off their preparations with their non residential preparations for the home based players last week, the writing has been well scripted on the wall, the home team is ready.
The Uganda Cranes players trained under runny conditions on Tuesday
Individual players led by the captain Denis Onyango have doubled their efforts in training sessions with sheer determination and commitment as they all eye maximum points.
“We are determined to give our best for the game. We need maximum points out of this game this Saturday. Lesotho is not a small team like many people think. Therefore, we have to work hard and collectively as a team” Onyango disclosed to the media in the pre-match press conference held at Namboole on Friday morning.
The head coach Sebastien Desabre and the rest of his technical team have done a tremendous task to assemble a formidable team and prepare the players mentally and physically.
Desabre says the team is prepared 200 percent for the double header starting with the first leg at Namboole.
“We have spoken to the players, trained well and they are prepared physically and mentally. The players know the importance of this match. We shall work hard to get the home win which will be a stepping stone to the return leg on Tuesday” Desabre told the media at the pre-match press conference.
Sebastien Desabre addressing the media during a pre match press conference
Meanwhile, Lesotho players trained at Namboole Stadium on Friday evening for two hours.
Apart from Murushid Jjuuko, all the 23 other players in the camp at the Kabira Country Club in Bukoto will be available for selection.
Jjuuko is suspended after getting two cautions but will be available for the return leg when the team travels.
Uganda Cranes maintain their grip at the summit of group L with four points off two matches.
Tanzania and Lesotho have four points while Cape Verde has one point.
UGANDA CRANES PLAYERS AVAILABLE FOR SELECTION:
Goalkeepers: Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundown, South Africa), Jamal Salim (El Meriekh, Sudan), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC, Uganda)
Defenders: Isaac Isinde (Kirinya Jinja SS, Uganda), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA FC, Uganda), Denis Iguma (Kazma FC, Kuwait), Nico Wakiro Wadada (Azam FC, Tanzania), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa) FC, Isaac Muleme (Haras El Hodood, Egypt), Joseph Ochaya (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Hassan Wasswa (El Geish, Egypt)
Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Church Hill Brothers, India), Ibrahim Sadam Juma (KCCA FC, Uganda), Tadeo Lwanga (Vipers SC, Uganda), Allan Kateregga (Cape Town City, South Africa), Faruku Miya (Gorica, Croatia ), Moses Waisswa (Vipers Sc, Uganda), Milton Karisa (MC Oujda, Morocco), Allan Kyambadde (KCCA, Uganda)
Forwards: Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (Simba, Tanzania), Edrisa Lubega (SV Ried, Austria), Derrick Nsibambi (Smouha, Egypt), Patrick Kaddu (KCCA FC, Uganda)
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) International Match Organizing Committee (IMOC) along with the Uganda Police Force and Traffic departments have held a joint press conference at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Friday.
The essence of this press conference was to help notify the general public about the general arrangement for the fans prior to, during and after the game.
Issa Magoola, chairman of the FUFA International Match Organizing Committee, addressed the media flanked by the Federation communications manager Ahmed Hussein, Kampala Metropolitan Traffic commander SSP Norman Musinga and the Uganda Police Force deputy PRO Patrick Onyango.
Magoola urged the fans to acquire the match tickets at the designated selling points, purchase the tickets early and avoid the late rush.
SSP Musinga explained the general traffic flow and its management as well as hinting on the key parking places for motorists.
Uganda Police deputy PRO Patrick Onyango called upon all the fans to respect the regulations set by the law enforcement team that will have uniformed and non-uniformed policemen.
Issa Magoola, FUFA International Match Organizing Committee (IMOC):
The preparations for the Uganda Cranes versus Lesotho match have progressed well. The match officials will come from Egypt, Commissioner (Egypt) and the referees’ assessor from Djibouti. The tickets are already on sale and the public is urged to acquire their match tickets at the designated selling points. There will be no ticket sale around the stadium. We urge that you come early and in big numbers.
SSP Norman Musinga, theTraffic Commander Kampala Metropolitan shows off the VVIP car stickers
SSP Norman Musinga: Traffic Commander Kampala Metropolitan:
We have ensured that there is a good traffic management plan to the public. The routes from the Wampewo round about to Kireka, Kinawataka zone and around the Northern By-pass will be normal traffic flow. Some sections of the road like around Sports View and Jokas hotels will be cut off. Only VVIP’s will access the main parking lot while the lower parking section below the Pioneer buses is for the general public. We shall follow the rules as stipulated by the Traffic and Road Traffic Act 1998.
Patrick Onyango – Deputy PRO Uganda Police Force:
We are asking the fans to abide by the regulations that we shall give time to time including the body search policy. We are still in an era of terrorism threats and therefore specific attention and care should be given.
MAIN PHOTO: L-R: Ahmed Hussein (FUFA Communications manager), Issa Magoola, chairman of the FUFA International Match Organizing Committee, Kampala Metropolitan Traffic commander SSP Norman Musinga and the Uganda Police Force deputy PRO Patrick Onyango addressing the media on Friday morning.
Uganda Cranes head coach Sebastien Desabre and the team captain Denis Onyango have promised a spirited showing against visiting Lesotho in the first leg of the 2019 AFCON qualifiers (group L).
The French born tactician and the Mamelodi Sundowns first choice goalkeeper were flanked by the FUFA Communications manager Ahmed Hussein as they engaged the media in an interactive press conference at the Mandela National Stadium boardroom on Friday morning.
Ahmed Hussein (left) with Desabre during the press conference
Desabre noted that the players have the right frame physically and mentally with the best confidence levels and urged the fans to support the team just like it was the case against Tanzania in the last game at Namboole.
Onyango too, like the coach promised a spirited fighting from the first to the closing whistle.
The Uganda Cranes will don the newly designed new jersey for the first time during the Saturday game.
Sebastien Desabre addressing the media during a pre match press conference
Sebastien Desabre (Head coach, Uganda Cranes):
This game against Lesotho is an important one for qualification for Uganda Cranes to the Africa Cup of Nations. The team is in good spirits. I have spoken to players and they understand the importance of this game. We have improved upon the level of confidence for the players. The three points will be crucial for the home fans and country as well. It is important to play good football as well. I am happy with the camp. We are ready. The win against Lesotho will be important to give confidence to the team in the ten months I have been in charge. We shall give 200 percent to the team. I urge the fans to support the team like they did against Tanzania. We need to qualify for AFCON as a unit.
Dennis Onyango, Uganda Cranes captain
Denis Onyango (Team captain, Uganda Cranes):
We are ready to try our best in the game. Lesotho is not a small team. In football there is no small team. They have not lost any game in the campaign.We want to go to Maseru with positive results. Everyone is ready. With the support of the nation (fans and media), we need to lift the team. There are no injuries at the moment in the camp. Everyone is in shape and we shall give our best. The advantage is that we are at home, we have to play our hearts out during the first leg. It is one game at a time. We believe we shall it to the next stage.
Some of the sports journalists in attendence during the press conference on Friday morning
