The Uganda Cranes players on Monday conducted a double training session.
This was day three of training ahead of the Western Region Tour and CHAN 2018 Kenya qualifiers.
Players go through the paces under the keen eye of coach Micho
The team had a first training session at 9 am and later at 5 pm at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole with 24 players in attendance.
Assistant captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda applauded fellow players especially the local based for morale and commitment displayed during the sessions conducted so far.
Uganda Cranes in training on Monday
“I delighted for the hard work, commitment and morale exhibited by young players playing at home.I believe they will give good results during their CHAN 2018 qualifiers against South Sudan” Said Wasswa
Training resumes on Tuesday evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The Uganda Cranes team has kick started preparations for the Western region tour and the CHAN 2018 qualifiers at the outside training ground of Mandela National Stadium on Saturday morning.
Twenty two (22) players of the summoned 25 showed up for training closely supervised by head coach, Milutin Sredejovic, his assistants Moses Basena and the goalkeeping tactician, Fred Kajoba.
Uganda Cranes players stretch after a session at Namboole on Saturday
Micho hailed the competitive spirit of the players who trained, adding the start has been brilliant with the tasks and expectations ahead.
“I am very impressed by the commitment and character of the players in attendence. This is a great start to cement our preparations first when we play on the regional tour, CHAN 2018 qualifiers as a bridge for 2018 World Cup qualifiers” Micho addressed the media after the two hour session.
Uganda Cranes will play the Western region select team on 8th July 2017 at the Kabale Municipal Stadium.
Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.
Players in action during training: Martin Kiiza (with the ball) attempts to pass the ball during training as Shafiq Kagimu closes the gap
These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.
Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.
The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.
The regional tour matches are free of charge.
Meanwhile, day two of non residential training will resume on Sunday morning at 9 a.m.
Players who attended day one of training:
Goalkeepers: Saidi Keni (Proline), Tom Ikara (Kirinya/Jinja S.S)
Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers), Deus Bukenya (Vipers), John Adiriko (SC Villa), Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa), Rashid Toha (Onduparaka)
Midfielders: Nicholas Kasozi (Synergy), Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Simon Sserunkuma (SC Villa),
At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin Sredejovic has released a team of 25 players for the Western region tour.
Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.
‘Training commences on Saturday 9 am at Mandela National Stadium. KCCA FC players have been left out because of their Confederation Cup engagement with their Club until the 7th July after the game against Club Africain. Some foreign based players have been summoned yo train with the team to prepare them for the World Cup qualifiers against Egypt in August’ Micho disclosed to www.fufa.co.ug
The last time the Uganda Cranes traveled on the regional tour was away to Kitara region at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal.
The national team won comfortably 3-1 with the goals coming from Emmanuel Okwi (2) and Nelson Senkatuka.
The consolation for the home side was scored by Beckam Musoki in the second half.
A record mammoth crowd watched the game also graced by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo and many delegates.
These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.
Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.
The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.
At Kabale Municipal Stadium (3:30 p.m) – Free Entry
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The Western region Football Association named 28 players to start preparations for the Uganda Cranes regional tour.
Six more players were added on the earlier list released last week.
The summoned players shall start training on Monday, 3rd July 2017 under head coach Vialli Bainomugisha.
According to the Western Region FA General Secretary, Olivia Mugisha, the final team will be named on 6th July 2017.
Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.
‘The Western Region Football Association is excited and ready to host the national team, Uganda Cranes. We have already started initial preparations to make the tour a complete success’ Mugisha remarked.
Uganda Cranes’ Martin Kizza (left) takes on Kitara region’s Vicent Kasonki during the last match on the national tours held at Buhinga play ground in Fort Portal
The last time the Uganda Cranes traveled on the regional tour was away to Kitara region at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal.
The national team won comfortably 3-1 with the goals coming from Emmanuel Okwi (2) and Nelson Senkatuka.
The consolation for the home side was scored by Beckam Musoki in the second half.
A record mammoth crowd watched the game also graced by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo and many delegates.
Some of the passionate football fans who attended the last regional tour in Fort Portal
These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.
Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.
The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.
The regional tour matches are free of charge.
LIST OF PLAYERS:
Goal Keepers: Sula Kibalama (Sharp), Dennis Otim (Mbarara)
Defenders: Johnson Turinawe (Sharp), Zaid Byekwaso (Nyamityobora), Umar Kato (Rushere), Bruce Rubanja (Creamland), Bashir Babu (Mbarara). Cleophas Fiat (Sharp), Winston Bamwesigye (Ryakasinga)
Midfielders: Mohammed Matovu (Welden), Micheal Muhangi (Mbarara), Tor Kondok (Red Army), Alex Mandela (Sharp), Alex Twinamatsiko (Rukungiri United), Sadam Juma (Creamland), Dennis Agoa (Ntoda), Brian Owomugisha (Ntoda), Anatoli Irumba (Ryakasinga)
Strikers: Solomon Isaya (Kabwohe Town Council), Joseph Akandwanaho (Bushenyi United), Peter Asiimire (Ibanda United), Ismail Luyombya (Rushere), Sadam Nasir (Mbarara), Hassan Kakuru (Amama), Micheal Baseme (Rukungiri United), Dickens Ainebyoona (Sharp), Sadat Nsubuga (Club-less), Brian Kanyesigye (Ryakasinga)
FUFA and the South Sudan Football Association have both confirmed dates and venues for the CHAN 2018 Kenya qualifiers between the two Nations.
The first leg of the qualifier will be played on Friday 14th July 2017 at the Juba Stadium in Juba at 4.30 pm (EAST) while the return leg will be played 22nd July 2017 at the Phillip Omomdi Stadium, Lugogo.
The FUFA Chief Officer Edgar Watson said that Phillip Omondi Stadium has been chosen to host the return leg because of the need to utilise all the CAF sanctioned Stadiums in Uganda.
The winner between Uganda and South Sudan will face either Tanzania or Rwanda who have face off in another qualifier.
Uganda Cranes Head coach Milutin Sredojevic will release his Squad for the match tomorrow to start training ahead of the Regional tour of Western in Kabale and the match against South Sudan.
Ahead of the Uganda Cranes regional tour to Western region, a provisional formidable team of 21 players has been named by the Western Regional Football Association.
According to the Western Region FA General Secretary, Olivia Mugisha, coach Vialli Bainomugisha will handle the team that starts residential training on Monday, 3rd July 2017.
Western region hosted the first ever tour under the brand ‘Cranes Na Mutima‘ in 2014 at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.
Seven more players will be added to make a total of 28.
The head coach will name the final team by 6th July ahead of the match slated for 8th August 2017.
‘The Western Region Football Association is excited and ready to host the national team, Uganda Cranes. We have already started initial preparations to make the tour a complete success’ Mugisha remarked.
A section of fans at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal. Hundreds of fans are associated with the regional tour matches which are always free of charge
The last time the Uganda Cranes traveled on the regional tour was away to Kitara region at the Buhinga stadium in Fort Portal.
The national team won comfortably 3-1 with the goals coming from Emmanuel Okwi (2) and Nelson Senkatuka.
The consolation for the home side was scored by Beckam Musoki in the second half.
FUFA President Moses Magogo greets the team captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda during the team inspection at Buhinga stadium.
A record mammoth crowd watched the game also graced by the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo and many delegates.
These tours were initiated three years ago with great ambitions as bringing close the national team brand to the fans in the respective localities than at the usually know Mandela National stadium, Namboole.
Also, such tours help to rally special support for the Uganda Cranes, help to prepare the team ahead of the up coming matches and in a way, they are a special plat form to show case talent that has not been known.
The tours are jointly sponsored by Uganda Cranes main sponsors, Airtel Uganda Limited and partners, Nile Breweries Limited under their brand Nile Special while Kibo Media are the event managers.
The triumphant Uganda Cranes delegation successfully returned from Cape Verde Islands early Tuesday morning (3am).
The group was received by a host of FUFA officials led by the 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, CEO Edgar Watson, Humphrey Mandu (Deputy CEO), Hamid Juma (FUFA Executive committee member and Chairman Technical Committee), Decolas Kiiza (Director of Finance), Ahmed Hussein (FUFA Communications Manager), Hassan Kirunda Kakaire (FUFA Big league Delegate), Patrick Ntege (National teams’ Officer), FUFA Staff, fans, media, friends and relatives.
L-R: Coach Micho, Humphrey Mandu and Edgar Watson chat shortly after the team’s arrival at Entebbe International Airport
The group touched down at Entebbe International aboard Ethiopian Airlines on flight ET 336 from Addis Ababa.
Thereafter, there was a special press conference held at the Airport where head of delegation Dennis Mbidde lauded the players, technical staff and the federation as a whole for the job well done.
Some of the players upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport L-R Shaban Muhammad, Wadada nicolas, Murushid Juuko and Isaac MuleneGoalkeeping coach Fred Kajoba arrives at Entebbe International Airport. FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha is on the right.
‘We traveled with a committed and diligent team. I salute the players in a special way. This a a perfect start for the Project Cameroon 2019. I thank the technical team and FUFA as a whole’ Mbidde stated in a brief speech.
Team captain Denis Onyango was equally ecstatic about the victory registered away from home.
Dennis Onyango (R) joined by the FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha during the press conference at Entebbe International Airport
‘We responded positively despite the challenges encountered before the game. I thank the gallant players and technical team as well for the job well done. Let us stay focused for the job ahead of us’ Onyango, who officially started his role as team captain noted.
Team head coach Milutin Sredejovic appreciated the spirit exhibited in the particular game.
‘Since 2014, we have only lost one away match where we considered a penalty. The entire group was focused and i also hail the senior players on the team. We pushed to the limit and delivered. We are now eyeing the CHAN 2018 and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. I thank the players and FUFA for the preparations’ Micho said.
The FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo hailed the sponsors – Airtel Uganda, Nile Special, Bidco, Ecobank, NIC, the players, fans, FUFA Executive Committee and the secretariat staff for the efforts during the trip to Cape Verde.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo with Finance Director Decolas Kiiza (R)
He called upon the Government of Uganda to fully support the national team, like it is done elsewhere in Africa.
‘It is exactly 12 days since we left the country for Cape Verde. We played three matches against Ethiopia, Senegal and Cape Verde. I salute the performance of the players for the discipline and hard-work. It is not easy to keep away for that long in such conditions and you still deliver positive results. I thank the FUFA Executive and secretariat for the necessary support. I continue to call upon the Government for financial support towards the Uganda Cranes. We need to be included on the national budget like it is done elsewhere in Africa. Our winning away to Cape Verde should only make us prepare better ahead of future engagements.’ The FUFA President said in his speech.
Benard Muwanga, Denis Onyango and Ahmed Hussein at the Entebbe Airport
The players were then served to a cocktail before the entire group departed for their respective homes.
Focus immediately turns to the CHAN 2018 preparations as well as 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.
Uganda Cranes will play South Sudan in a two legged CHAN 2018 first round qualifier next month.
In August, the national team will then host Egypt in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Kampala.
KCCA FC striker Geoffrey Serunkuma barely spent time on the pitch after coming on for Emma Okwi before announcing his arrival with an important goal that Cranes coach Milutin Sredojevic will look up to during the campaign of the Total Africa Cup of Nations 2019.
Uganda Cranes Starting XI L-R (Back row) Emma Okwi, Khalid Aucho, Derrick Nsibambi, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Murushid Juuko, Bernard Muwanga, Denis Onyango Front row (L-R) Nicolas Wadada, Faruku Miya, Isaac Muleme, Godfrey Walusimbi
Micho substituted Okwi after he picked up a yellow card but the stylish striker had done his job for the period he spent on the pitch after keeping the Cape Verde defence under pressure.
Micho took off Isaac Muleme for a striker Milton Karisa and Cranes had four strikers on the pitch Okwi, Miya Faruku, Derrick Nsibambi just at the start of the second half.
Serunkuma netted late in the game for Uganda Cranes to win 1-0 in Group L.
Denis Onyango started a new chapter as the full time captain of the Uganda Cranes with fabulous saves in the match.
Hassan Wasswa and Khalid Aucho were in charge of the midfield while Murushid Juuko and Bernard Muwanga manned the defense with Godfrey Walusimbi and Wadada playing on the left and right ful backs respectively.
‘It was a good result. We were not disrupted by events on Saturday. We remained focused. We would have maintained our away record had it not been the penalty we conceded against Burkina Faso in 2016. This is a good wonderful result for my boys and the people of Uganda’ said Uganda Cranes coach Micho.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (facing camera with cap) congratulates goalkeper Dennis Onyango during the celebrations after the final whistle
FUFA Communication Manager Ahmed Hussein confirmed that the team will return home on Tuesday.
‘Uganda Cranes left Cape Verde last night 11 pm (time in Praia)- (3 a.m Monday in Uganda) but will arrive at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday at 3 am. Let’s turn up in big numbers to welcome back our heroes’ said Hussein,
Striker Derrick Nsibambi is sandwiched during playUganda Cranes forward player Faruku Miya attempts to dribble past two Cape Verde players players
Team Line ups:
Cape Verde XI: Vozinha (G.K), Tiago Almeida, Carlitos, Vally, Gege, Marcos Soares (59’ Ryan Mendes), Jamiro (76’ Helder), Garry Rodrigues, Ponck, Ze Luis, Julio Tavares (59’ Heldon)
Subs Not Used: Babanco, Kevin Oliveira
Head coach: Lúcio Antunes
Uganda Cranes XI: Denis Onyango (GK) (C), Nicholas Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Bernard Muwanga, Murushid Jjuuko, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Khalid Aucho, Faruku Miya, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (78′ Geofrey Sserunkuma), Derrick Nsibambi (94′ Denis Timothy Awany) and Isaac Muleme (46′ Milton Karisa)
Subs Not Used: Benjamin Ochan (GK), Isma Watenga (GK), Denis Okot, Robert Kaketo, Muhammad Shaban
AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda
Saturday, 11th June 2017
Estádio da Várzea, Praia City
Time: 8.30pm EAST (4.30pm in Cape Verde)
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm
Uganda Cranes Coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic has named his starting XI of Uganda Cranes to face Cape Verde in the opening match of the Total AFCON 2019 Group L in Praia on Sunday evening.
AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda
Saturday, 11th June 2017
Estádio da Várzea, Praia City
Time: 8.30pm EAST (4.30pm in Cape Verde)
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm
The opening match of Group L in the Total Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers between Caper Verde and Uganda Cranes has been postponed to Sunday 11th June, 2017.
In a communication from CAF that reads;
‘Kindly be informed that the flight of the Ugandan team has failed to take off from Dakar due to technical problem which was considered as a case of force majeure by the Committee of the Africa Cup of Nations’
The match was due to be played on Saturday 10th June, 2017 in Praia at 8.30pm (EAST), 4.30pm in Cape Verde.
‘The kick off time for tomorrow’s match has been delayed by 24 hours. We shall get more details about the change of the match but the players are in good condition and ready for action. The entire Uganda Cranes contingent is nowin Praia’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein
The change of match took the effort of FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo to communicate to Continental Soccer governing body CAF about today’s events in Dakar where Uganda Cranes final contingent had camped but found it difficult to connect to Cape Verde this morning.
AFCON 2019 Qualifiers (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda
Saturday, 10th June 2017
Estádio da Várzea, Praia City
Time: 8.30pm EAST (4.30pm in Cape Verde)
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm
Veteran Striker Geoffrey Serunkuma and Custodian Denis Onyango will not be facing Cape Verde for the first time with the Cranes.
The duo was part of the Uganda Cranes that faced the Blue Sharks on 18th June 2005 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole during the FIFA 2006 World Cup Qualifiers.
Serunkuma scored the lone goal that gave Uganda a 1-0 victory on the day.
Sserunkuma who plays for KCCA FC says that Cape Verde play a free flowing game but can be contained to avert any threats.
‘The Cape Verdeans play a flowing game but we managed to keep them silent at Namboole hence the win when I scored. However they are home on Saturday but we are hopeful of getting three points’ said Serunkuma
However Sserunkuma will have to wait for the nod from Head coach Milutin Sredojevic to select him for the game on Saturday
‘I understand their style of play and when to catch them off guard. We are confident with the players we have here’ added Sserunkuma.
The 34 year old is part of Uganda Cranes contingent that has 7 players and two officials Crispus Muyinda and Media officer Nsereko Hamza Kawuma who arrived early in Cape Verde after camping in Dakar, Senegal. The rest of the team will leave for Cape Verde tonight.
Players in Cape Verde: Emmanuel Okwi, Geoffrey Serunkuma, Bernard Muwanga, Robert Kakeeto, Isaac Muleme, Derrick Nsibambi and Muhammad Shaban
It is every footballer’s dream including Robert Kakeeko to pull on a National team jersey for his country. National team duty calls for delivery on focus, commitment and skills with an aim of not disappointing those who have put a lot of trust in a player during his career.
Kakeeto a Ugandan International who trades his trade in Aalborg FC in the Danish Super Liga landed a call up to the Uganda Cranes three days to the day the National team played Kitara Region Select on the Uganda Cranes Regional tours. The match was played on 28th May, 2017 in FortPortal.
The 22 year says he will never forget in his life the day he donned the Uganda Cranes jersey.
Kakeeto (4th from L) on National team duty in Forportal during the Uganda Cranes Regional Tour. He is in Senegal where Cranes is camped ahead of Saturday’s clash with Cape Verde.
‘It is like a dream come true for the reason that any footballer would crave for to feature in his National team. I cannot forget the day I first wore the National Team Jersey yet it was another opportunity for adventure in my motherland’ said an excited Kakeeto
Kakeeto says that he grew up looking up to Ugandan midfield gem Tony Mawejje though he also admires KCCA FC midfielder Saddam Juma amidst being in the same age range.
Kakeeto (3rd from L in red top ) at Entebbe International Airport with Uganda Cranes players getting set to fly out of the country last week.
The Aalborg FC player adds that he has to fight tooth and nail not to disappoint those who have confidence in him in particular the National Team tactician Sredejovic ‘Micho’ Milutin for the opportunity he gave him to don the Cranes jersey.
With hopes of being part of the Uganda Cranes team which will qualify for AFCON Cameroon 2019 and FIFA World Cup Russia 2018, Kakeeto can’t stop working hard to keep in shape for his club and the national team.
‘I have to work hard and deliver. It is an obligation for me because I don’t have to let down all those who have commended me especially the Head coach’
Little did he know that he would ever play competitive football until when he received a lot of praises from people in his home village Kyetume in Mukono.
Kakeeto in traning for the National team duty
‘I used to play football with my village mates with no hope at all of turning professional. I always heard fans from the sidelines commenting about my skills and how I passed the ball’ added Kakeeto
During his teenage days he was invited to feature for his Village team and later joined Forever Living Soccer Academy in Kampala under Coach Matia Lule.
Heavens opened for Kakeeto who later flew to Denmark for trials at Aalborg FC where he has enjoyed great football development stages till when he was promoted to the club’s Senior team.
The enterprising midfield gem hopes to play in better European leagues like Premier League, Spanish Laliga , Budesliga, French League 1 and Italian Serie A .
For now, Kakeeto will keep his fingers crossed as Head coach Micho looks forward to picking a positive result against Cape Verde when the Total Africa Cup of Nations 2019 Qualifiers get underway on Saturday 10th June, 2017.
MAIN PHOTO: L-R Robert Kakeeto, Muhammad Shaban and Milton Karisa on National team duty
It has come to the attention of FUFA that Hon. Allan Sewanyana together with Mr. Allan Mulindwa who is the Lawyer of the Dan Walusimbi Group has held a Press Conference on Wednesday 7th June, 2017 at Grand Imperial where statements were made implicating the person of the FUFA President in matters of unauthorized selling of tickets for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and that the matter has been submitted to FIFA Ethics and Integrity Committee.
The details of the petition, its merits and demerits have been submitted to Kabega Bogezi & Bukenya Advocates (the Lawyers of the Person of the FUFA President) awaiting any legal steps from whatsoever authorities and any related questions and answers shall be a reserve of the legal team.
It is however the obligation of FUFA to state some facts for the benefit of the public.
1) To date FIFA has neither contacted the FUFA President nor the Institution, however when it does an appropriate response shall be provided as required.
2) Since way back, FIFA Member Associations apply for World Cup Tickets if they receive orders from their Nationals with priority given to those involved in sports. In the recent times, this was the case even in the previous regimes when the FIFA World cup was held in 2006 & 2010 where the same mechanism was applied for 2014.
3) For the case of 2014, many Ugandans applied for the World Cup Tickets and they paid their ticket face price fees to the FUFA Bank Account. The funds were later remitted to FIFA and Tickets were issued to the persons who paid. At an appropriate time, FUFA will release the corresponding bank trails and the list of Ugandan beneficiaries that applied, paid and received their 2014 World Cup Tickets through FUFA.
4) All Ugandans that applied and paid for the tickets received them without any complaints whatsoever.
5) It is therefore incorrect to allege that FIFA gives FUFA tickets for free distribution to Ugandans and there is no single Ugandan that was disenfranchised of the right to buy a ticket for the 2014 World Cup.
6) FUFA is aware that this is election-related machinations but reiterates that the leadership of FUFA will be determined democratically and by the Members of FUFA and in accordance with the FUFA Statutes.
The football fraternity including Government, 33 Members of FUFA, Sponsors, Partners, Fans, Public and Service Providers are urged to remain calm during this period as many of such statements are likely to come up in a bid to tarnish the image of the institution, its leaders and also divert the attention of football development in the country.
The football world is in shock following the demise of Ivory Coast National team player Cheick Tiote on Monday 5th June, 2017.
The 30 year old Tiote was part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. He has been plying his trade with Beijing Enterprises FC in China.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo was shocked upon receiving the sad news.
‘We all know what he could offer on the pitch. African football has lost a giant of a player who made life difficult for his opponents on the pitch in the midfield. He was always full of commitment, focus and passion whenever given chance to play’ said FUFA President.
‘Our Condolences go out to the Ivory Coast Football Federation following the loss of a player who was hugely followed by football fans around the world including Uganda’ added Magogo.
‘We pray that the Almighty keeps his family, relatives and friends strong during these trying times’
‘Football will miss Chieck Tiote’
Tiote collapsed during training but was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.
A minute of silence was observed before kickoff of the International Friendly match between Senegal and Uganda Cranes played in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Dakar.
Uganda Cranes and Senegal played to a goalles draw during the international friendly match played at the Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor in Dakar city on Tuesday morning.
Before the game, there was a moment of silence for the late Ivory Coast midfielder Chieck Ismael Tiote, who collapsed during a training session and was declared dead moments later in a Chinese hospital.
There were lots of positives picked from the game, the second international friendly match after yet another goalless draw with Ethiopia on Saturday in Hawassa.
Senegal XI that started against Uganda Cranes on TuesdayHassan Wasswa Mawanda captained the Uganda Cranes teamUganda Cranes team officials and substitutes singing the national anthem prior to kick-off
Uganda Cranes will remain camped in Senegal for acclimatization and training until when the team flies out to the Cape Verde Islands.
Uganda will open its campaign for the 2019 Nations cup qualifiers against Cape Verde on Saturday.
Senegal is ranked 27th while Uganda is 71st in the latest FIFA rankings released on 1st June 2017.
Uganda Cranes XI:
Benjamin Ochan (G.K), Nico Wakiro Wadada, Godfrey Walusimbi, Murushid Juuko, Benard Muwanga, Khalid Aucho, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (C), Faruku Miya, Emmanuel Arnold Okwi, Derrick Nsibambi, Isaac Muleme
Monday, 5th June 2017 (9 p.m in Senegal), 6th June 2017 (Midnight in Uganda)
Dakar City
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The 19 man Uganda Cranes team to Senegal has three goalkeepers, six defenders, four midfielders and six strikers.
Six KCCA players flew out of the country on Saturday night immediately after guiding their side to a 2-1 victory over Nigeria’s Rivers United at the Phillip Omondi stadium, Lugogo.
These included goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan, Timothy Denis Awany, Denis Okot Oola, Isaac Muleme, Derrick Nsibambi and Geofrey Sserunkuma.
The six players trained with the rest on Sunday night.
Uganda Cranes players in training on Sunday night
Speaking on the call up veteran striker Geoffrey Serunkuma said that though he had been involved with his team, he has to give in his best to the National team.
‘Though I have been too involved with the my club (KCCA FC ), It won’t be an excuse for my failure to deliver to the National team. Wearing a National team is any footballers dream therefore I have to deliver for my nation” noted Serunkuma.
Benjamin Ochan (right) joined Isma Watenga in training
Team captain Dennis Onyango is expected to join the rest of the teammates late on Monday.
Uganda Cranes take on Senegal in the second international friendly match in Dakar on Monday night (in Uganda, the game kicks off at mid-night – Tuesday, 6th June 2017).
This will be the second international match for the Uganda Cranes after Saturday’s goal-less draw with Ethiopia in Hawassa city.
All these build ups and camps are intended to fine tune the squad ahead of the group L match against Cape Verde Islands on Saturday 10th June 2017 in Praia City.
The team will fly to Praia on Thursday 8th June 2017.
Uganda Cranes 19 man Squad to Senegal and Cape Verde:
Goalkeepers: Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Ismail Watenga (Vipers), Benjamin Ochan (KCCA)
Midfielders: Aucho Khalid (Red Star, Serbia), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (Nijemh, Lebanon), Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa Jogoo), Robert Kakeeto (Aalborg, Denmark)
Strikers: Geofrey Sserunkuma (KCCA), Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (SC Villa Jogoo), Muhammed Shaban (Onduparaka), Derrick Paul Nsibambi (KCCA), Milton Karisa (Vipers), Faruku Miya (Royal Excel Mouscron on loan from Standard Liege, Belgium)
The international friendly match between Ethiopia and Uganda played on Saturday at the Hawassa International stadium ended in a score-less draw.
In the second half, head coach Milutin Sredejovic made a couple of changes.
Martin Kizza replaced Ntambi, Milton Karisa came on for Robert Kakeeto, Muhammed Shaban replaced Emma Okwi, Nelson Senkatuka was Faruku Miya’s replacement, Bukenya for Khalid Aucho and Hassan Wasswa Mawanda paved way for Savio Kabugo.
Uganda Cranes striker Emma Okwi featured in the friendly match which ended goalless
Up next is the second international friendly match on 5th June 2017 (9 p.m in Dakar, Kampala time will be midnight) away to Senegal in Dakar City.
The build ups are beimng used to prepare the national side for the opening group L match against Cape Verde Islands on 10th June 2017 in Praia City.
Changes: Martin Kizza for ChrizsetomNtambi, Milton Karisa for Robert Kakeeto, Muhammed Shaban for Emma Okwi, Nelson Senkatuka for Faruku Miya, Bukenya for Khalid Aucho, Savio Kabugo for Hassan Wasswa Mawanda
Un-used sub: Saidi Keni
Six players Keni Saidi, Martin Kizza, Savio Kabugo, Nelson Senkatuka, Deus Bukenya and Ntambi Kirizestom didn’t travel, Senegal.
Uganda Cranes 19 man Squad to Senegal: Denis Onyango, Ismail Watenga, Benjamin Ochan (Goalkeepers), Walusimbi Godfrey, Karisa Milton, Muhammad Shaban, Wakiro Nicolas Wadada, Juuko Murushid, Aucho Khalid, Okwi Emmanuel Arnold, Miya Faruku, Wasswa Hassan Mawanda, Muwanga Bernard, Kakeeto Robert, Mulema Isaac, Awanyi Dennis Timothy, Okot Denis Oola, Nsibambi Derrick Paul and Serunkuma Geofrey.
Leader of Delegation: Mbidde Dennis Ssebugwawo
Head coach: Milutin Sredojevic
Assistant coach: Moses Basena
Goalkeepers’ trainer: Kajoba Fred Kisitu
Team Physician: Dr. Kisolo Muwanga Ronald Herbert
Team Physiotherapist: Ssewanyana Ivan
Team Coordinator: Muyinda Crispus
FUFA Official: Makumbi Sulait
Media: Kenyi Swalley
Media: Nsereko Hamza Kawuma
MAIN PHOTO: Left full back Godfrey Walusimbo controlling the ball during the friendly match between Ethiopia and Uganda which edned 0-0 on Saturday.
3rd June 2017: International Friendly – Ethiopia Vs Uganda Cranes – Hawassa International stadium
6th June 2017: International Friendly– Senegal Vs Uganda Cranes – Dakar
10th June 2017: AFCON 2019 qualifier (Group L): Cape Verde Vs Uganda Cranes – Praia City
A contingent of 23 Uganda Cranes players and officials left for Ethiopia on Thursday afternoon.
L-R: Bernard Muwanga, Faruku Miya, Robert Kakeeto and Martin Kiiza at the departure lounge of Entebbe International Airport
The team shall have an international friendly match this Saturday at the Hawassa International stadium.
There are 2 goalkeepers, 5 defenders, 5 midfielders and 5 strikers that left Entebbe International Airport.
Midfielder Crizestom Ntambi will join he team in Addis Ababa.
Martn Kiiza, Milton Karisa and Aucho Khalid at Entebbe International Airport
Uganda Cranes will play Ethiopia this Saturday in Hawassa City, then play Senegal on Tuesday before next Saturday’s group L encounter against Cape Verde Islands.
Traveling players to Ethiopia:
Goalkeepers: Ismail Watenga (Vipers), Said Keni (Proline)
Midfielders: Aucho Khalid (Red Star, Serbia), Deus Bukenya (Vipers), Martin Kizza (SC Villa), Robert Kakeeto (Aalborg, Denmark),Bernard Muwanga (SC Villa)
Forwards: Emmanuel Okwi (SC Villa), Nelson Senkatuka (Proline), Muhammad Shaban (Onduparaka), Milton Kariisa (Vipers), Faruku Miya (Standard Leige, on loan to Royal Excel Mouscron)
To join the team in Addis Ababa: Crizestom Ntambi (Jimma Aba Buna, Ethiopia),
Tentative Programme:
Thursday, 1st June 2017: Departure to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (By Ethiopian Airlines, Flight ET 333)
Friday, 2nd June 2017: Domestic flight to Hawassa City and last training session at Hawassa International stadium
Saturday, 3rd June 2017: International friendly match: Ethiopia Vs Uganda Cranes – Hawassa International stadium (4 p.m)
Sunday, 4th June 2017: Departure to Dakar, Senegal
Tuesday, 6th June 2017: International friendly match: Senegal Vs Uganda Cranes – Dakar (6 p.m)
Wednesday, 7th June 2017: Departure to Praia City
Saturday, 10th June 2017: Cape Verde Vs Uganda Cranes – Praia
