FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: Uganda Cranes

FUFA Executive listens to the football players’ Association’s call to support Issa Sekatawa

FUFA Executive Committee has listened to the call by one of its Member Associations-Uganda Football Players’ Association (UFPA) to extend a helping hand to football icon Issa Sekatawa who is down with a broken leg.

At the FUFA weekly press conference held on Wednesday morning at FUFA House, FUFA announced its support towards the former Uganda Cranes striker.

‘Upon request by Uganda Football Players Association (UFPA), FUFA has offered to meet the Surgery expenses of 5m UGX for Isa Sekatawa. The Players Association headed by Ntege Patrick, Edward Kalungi, Paul Mukatabala and Lawrence Kizito made the request to FUFA for consideration with contribution to Sekatawa’s current state of health’ said FUFA Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu during the weekly press conference.

‘Paul Ssali who played with Sekatawa for the Uganda Cranes in the 80s was another instrumental figure in ensuring that FUFA responds to this call’

‘We are elected to serve the 33 members of FUFA and when we were approached by the UFPA, the Executive Committee did not hesitate to support Sekatawa’ said Magogo the FUFA President.

Isa Sekatawa who was also referred to as ‘Sokatabu and Golden Boy’ played for the Uganda Cranes, Express FC, Nytil FC and KCC FC in the 80s and early 90s.

He continued to play football in his free time until fate had him break his leg in February this year at Nakivubo stadium while training with the Ex-internationals.

‘Nothing will take away what Sekatawa achieved while playing for Uganda Cranes. It is an obligation for football to join his family to ensure he gets back to playing football which remains his favorite pass time activity’ added FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo

FUFA is hopeful that the rest of the football fraternity will join the cause and help Sekatawa recover from the injury.

FUFA wishes Sekatawa a quick recovery.

April 19, 2017
CECAFA Region F.A Presidents meet in Kampala for brain storming session

Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) member presidents are expected to converge in Kampala for a key brain storming convention.

At least seven presidents from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Zanzibar, Ethiopia and host Uganda will meet at FUFA Headquarters in Mengo, Kampala on Wednesday afternoon.

FUFA Spokesman, Ahmed Hussein confirmed the meeting which is expected to steer CECAFA region football administration and management in the expected right direction.

Seven CECAFA presidents shall be engaged in a meeting that will highlight the current state and future of football in the region.

All the resolutions will be communicated to the media at a special press conference to be held later on Wednesday at 6 p.m (FUFA House)

South Sudan, Djibouti and Sudan have missed the meeting with apologies.

This will be the first ever meeting of CECAFA Presidents in Uganda under the reign of Eng. Moses Magogo.

MAIN PHOTO: The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo will host the CECAFA Presidents on Wednesday.

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

April 19, 2017
FUFA Uganda Cup 2016/17: Semi-final draws successfully held

Uganda Cup 2016/17:

1^st Semi-final: Paidha Black Angels Vs Sadolin Paints – Bar Okoro stadium, Zombo

2^nd Semi-final: Police or KCCA Vs Express – Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole or Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo

Pending quarter final match: Police Vs KCCA – Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (Sunday, 30^th April 2017)

Uganda Cup semi-final draws for the 43rd edition were successfully held at FUFA House on Wednesday.

The first semi-final will be held between Paidha Black Angels and Sadolin Paints at Bar Okoro Stadium in Zombo.

10 time winners, Express football club await the winner of either KCCA or Express in the second semi-final.

FUFA Competitions director, Ali Mwebe supervised the draws flanked by the Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic and the FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein.

The only remaining quarter final match between Police and KCCA that was earlier scheduled for 23^rd April 2017 has been now shifted to 30^th April 2017

Mwebe also clarified about the format of play in the semi-finals, the host venue and the CSR cause attached to the Uganda Cup.

The semi-finals shall be two legged. The FUFA team supervised the facilities in Arua and confirmed the finals shall be held at the Betway Green Light Stadium on 27^th May 2017.

There are two training grounds confirmed – NTC Moni ground and Arua Public School play ground.

The CSR cause will see donations given to Arua Remand Home.

The tentative date for semi-finals shall be held between 12th and 14th May 2017.

Vipers are the reigning holders of the Uganda Cup whose winner earns the ticket to play at the CAF Confederation cup.

April 19, 2017
Uganda Cranes Regional tour to Paidha 2017: West Nile name squad to face Micho’s troops

West Nile Region FA has released a list of 25 players to face the National soccer team-Uganda Cranes on Sunday 23rd April, 2017 in Paidha.

The Squad:

Goal keepers: Data Saidi (Paidha Black Angels), Sijsli Safi (Doves All Stars), Tella Stephen (Rising Stars FC)

Defenders: Jakisa Jerry (Nebbi Central), Uyirwoth Erick (Paidha Black Angels), Andima Abdulrahuman (Doves All Stars), Ococha Rashid (Nebbi Central), Odagiu Khalidi (Paidha Black Angeks), Sabir Nesta (Paidha Black Angels), Ngomesende Colbert (Hot Springs FC), Siraji Ambrose (Alpha), Aniku Oso Dejong (Doves All Stars), Data Baa (Vurra FC), Mahad Swali (HFL Adjumani), Franco Deguzman (Rising Stars Koboko)

Midfielders: Akbar Khemis (Hot Springs FC), Abang Creamio (Paidha Black Angels), Choka Julius (Nebbi Central), Jagyembe Joel (Hot Springs), Ovoyo Solomon (Nkumba University)
Strikers: Olega Brian (Doves All Stars), Amaku Fred ( Paidha Black Angels), Ezama Yusuf (Doves All Stars), Drici Peter Biyaya (Adjumani), Adaa Vardy (Soccer Academy Arua).

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

MAIN PHOTO: West Nile team that defeated Uganda Cranes in Arua last year. The only defeat Cranes Cranes has suffered during the tours (1-0) has come at the hands of West Nile region.

April 18, 2017
CAF Confederation cup: Goalie Ochan saves 2 penalties, scores winning kick as KCCA progress to the group stage

Al Masry (Egypt) 1-1 KCCA (Uganda)

KCCA progressed on 4-3 penalties

Reigning Azam Uganda Premier League champions, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) football club became the first club from Uganda to progress to the final group stage of the CAF Confederation cup.

The feat was achieved in the Egyptian city of Ismailia on Saturday following a 4-3 post penalty victory over Al Masry.

KCCA lost 1-0 on the day but the tie was sent direct to post match penalties after a 1 all aggregate tie having won the first leg at Phillip Omondi stadium 1-0 courtesy of Derrick Nsibambi’s late winner.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan saved two spot kicks as Geofrey Sserunkuma, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Timothy Dennis Awany and Ochan himself scored for the Ugandan side.

KCCA had earlier been eliminated by South Africans Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions league before they were diverted to the CAF Confederation league.

The group stages of the CAF Confederation cup will commence soon.

April 15, 2017
FUFA lines up friendly match with Senegal

Uganda Cranes technical team has lined up a friendly match against Senegal on 6th June 2017 en route to Cape Verde for the 2019 Nations Cup qualifier to be played a few days later.

CAF fixed the period between 5^th -13^th June, 2017 for the qualifier.

The high profile match will be played in Dakar.

The last time these two teams faced off was a 2014 World cup play-off qualifier in Morocco when Senegal won 1-0 in 2013.

‘It will be a good test for our players before taking on Cape Verde. We know the value of such matches before playing competitive game where points are at stake. We are very grateful of the Senegal Football Federation’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein.

‘Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin Sredojevic will be hoping to build on a great story in the 2017 Nations Cup qualification campaign into the 2019 Cameroon Project’ added Hussein.

FUFA will meet with the technical arms of the National senior team for further preparations of the upcoming international engagements including the 2019 Nations cup qualifiers where Uganda Cranes was drawn in Group L with Cape Verde, Tanzania and Lesotho.

April 13, 2017
Uganda improves in latest FIFA Rankings

Uganda has climbed two places to 72^nd in the latest Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) rankings for the month of March.

The CECAFA reigning champions ascended from 74^th in the last month with 462 points and are now 15^th in Africa.

On 23rd March 2017, Uganda Cranes played to a one all draw with Kenya Harambee Stars in an international friendly played at the Kenyatta stadium, Machakos.

Moses Waiswa celebrates his strike at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos

Moses Waiswa scored on his Uganda Cranes debut with a wonder strike that cancelled Michael Olunga’s opener.

Uganda also remains the best in the CECAFA region.

AFRICA TOP 20 World Position

1 Egypt 19

2 Senegal 30

3 Cameroon 33

4 Burkina Faso 35

5 Nigeria 40

6 Congo DR 41

7 Tunisia 42

8 Ghana 45

9 Ivory Coast 48

10 Morocco 53

11 Algeria 54

12 South Africa 64

13 Mali 69

14 Guinea 71

15 Uganda 72

16 Kenya 78

17 Cape Verde Islands 82

18 Benin 83

19 Gabon 84

20 Congo 84

MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes XI against Kenya prior to the International friendly match against Kenya on 23rd March 2017

PHOTO CREDITS: FUFA Communications Department

April 7, 2017
17 days left: National teams’ Jersey Campaign; Your design could earn you 5M Shillings

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) officially launched the campaign to usher in a new design for the national teams’ jerseys.

The jerseys to be designed will be nine (9) in total.

Click here for details on how to enter the competition Cranes designs jerseys. Send designs to jerseys@fufauganda.com

The banner promoting the campaign to design Uganda National team’s jerseys

FUFA President Eng.Moses Magogo launched the campaign during the weekly press conference held on Wednesday 17thMarch, 2017 morning at the Federation’s headquarters in Mengo, Kampala.

‘Like we communicated earlier, today is the occasion where the historic jersey that the Cranes used in the AFCON qualification campaign of 2015 and 2017 and in AFCON finals in Gabon will be retired as as away of honour’ said the FUFA President.

The campaign will be open to the general public to summit their entries for a month starting today (22nd March 2017) to 22nd April.

FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo presented the Uganda Cranes historic jerseys to H.E Stephanie Rivoal Ambassador of France to Uganda with captain Geoffrey Massa’s jersey. Yunus Sentamu and Hassan Wasswa jerseys were also given to the France Military team officials who visited FUFA House on Wednesday.

‘We open a campaign whereby for one month starting today will be running for any Ugandan, or group of Ugandans or organisation that is interested in coming up with the new design’ he indicated.

The entries will be open in three categories including the Uganda Cranes (men), Crested Cranes (women) and the other subsequent national teams that will be worn by the Sand Cranes (national beach soccer team), Futsal, National junior teams for mena nd women (Kobs (U23), Hippos (U20) and Cubs (U17)).

Designs needed;

3 Sets for Uganda Cranes

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit)

3 Sets for Crested Cranes

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit).

3 sets for Other National teams

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit)

Note: Black, Yellow, Red and White-only colour shades allowed to be used

‘Unlike previously where all the national teams have been using the same design, this time round the Uganda Cranes and Crested cranes jerseys will be different in design while the other subsequent teams will also have another design but differnet shades’ added Magogo.

The overall winner with all the nine (9) designs will be announced by a panel set up by FUFA and will walk away with a cash prize of UGX 5 million shillings following the terms and conditions in place. The winner will also watch Uganda Cranes games at home free for one year.

MAIN PHOTO: The Uganda Cranes jersey used at the 2017 AFCON Finals in Gabon that has been retired.

April 5, 2017
Count down: 23 days to go: Designing jerseys for Uganda National football teams as 5M is at stake

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) officially launched the campaign to usher in a new design for the national teams’ jerseys.

The jerseys to be designed will be nine (9) in total.

Click here for details on how to enter the competition Cranes designs jerseys. Send designs to jerseys@fufauganda.com

The banner promoting the campaign to design Uganda National team’s jerseys

FUFA President Eng.Moses Magogo launched the campaign during the weekly press conference held on Wednesday 17thMarch, 2017 morning at the Federation’s headquarters in Mengo, Kampala.

‘Like we communicated earlier, today is the occasion where the historic jersey that the Cranes used in the AFCON qualification campaign of 2015 and 2017 and in AFCON finals in Gabon will be retired as as away of honour’ said the FUFA President.

The campaign will be open to the general public to summit their entries for a month starting today (22nd March 2017) to 22nd April.

FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo presented the Uganda Cranes historic jerseys to H.E Stephanie Rivoal Ambassador of France to Uganda with captain Geoffrey Massa’s jersey. Yunus Sentamu and Hassan Wasswa jerseys were also given to the France Military team officials who visited FUFA House on Wednesday.

‘We open a campaign whereby for one month starting today will be running for any Ugandan, or group of Ugandans or organisation that is interested in coming up with the new design’ he indicated.

The entries will be open in three categories including the Uganda Cranes (men), Crested Cranes (women) and the other subsequent national teams that will be worn by the Sand Cranes (national beach soccer team), Futsal, National junior teams for mena nd women (Kobs (U23), Hippos (U20) and Cubs (U17)).

Designs needed;

3 Sets for Uganda Cranes

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit)

3 Sets for Crested Cranes

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit).

3 sets for Other National teams

Set 1: Predominantly Red (Home kit)

Set 2: Predominantly Yellow (Home kit)

Set 3: Predominantly White (Away kit)

Note: Black, Yellow, Red and White-only colour shades allowed to be used

‘Unlike previously where all the national teams have been using the same design, this time round the Uganda Cranes and Crested cranes jerseys will be different in design while the other subsequent teams will also have another design but differnet shades’ added Magogo.

The overall winner with all the nine (9) designs will be announced by a panel set up by FUFA and will walk away with a cash prize of UGX 5 million shillings following the terms and conditions in place. The winner will also watch Uganda Cranes games at home free for one year.

MAIN PHOTO: The Uganda Cranes jersey used at the 2017 AFCON Finals in Gabon that has been retired.

March 30, 2017
Massa’s official retirement letter from Uganda Cranes

Historic Uganda Cranes captain Geofrey Massa gracefully retires

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has acknowledged receipt of the official letter from the historic Uganda Cranes’ captain, Geofrey Massa.

‘Massa handed the letter to the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo on Wednesday. FUFA highly values the service Massa has offered for the national team over the years and will officially organize a testimonial match for him at a venue and date yet to be confirmed’ said FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein

FUFA will also help him develop a career of his choice in football which could be administration, management, technical or media.

‘He was a great servant. He was such a highly respected player in Uganda Cranes’ FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo said of him.

Geofrey Massa while on official duty for the Uganda Cranes

The letter reads in full:

27^th March 2017

Retirement from the national football team (Cranes):

It is with immense pride that I announce my retirement from the national football team after representing the country for 12 years.

I have had an incredible career and I am thankful for each and every moment for my time with the Uganda Cranes.

As a teenager, I fulfilled my childhood dream after making my debut against Ghana on September 4^th, 2005.

I feel very fortunate in that my career thereafter took me on a journey I could only have dreamed of.

Although I experienced a couple of low moments during my time with the Cranes, I feel very lucky to have experienced so many wonderful highlights over the course of my international football career.

I am proud to have played over 80 games for the Cranes, scored over 30 goals for the team but most important of all, to have captained the team to its first ever Africa Nations Cup appearance since 1978.

I will always look back with great pride at every time I represented my country from the LG Cup, through the CECAFA Challenge Cup tournaments, international friendly matches and several Nations / World Cup Qualifiers.

The experience of representing my country at the 2017 Nations Cup finals in Gabon was truly memorable, while the feeling after winning three CECAFA Challenge Cup titles and becoming the all-time Nations / World Cup qualifying top scorer with 14 goals, was quite satisfying.

I feel very fortunate to have had the career I have had with the Cranes, but one that would not have been entirely possible without the support of so many people.

Firstly and foremost, I would like to thank my parents, my beautiful wife and three children for all the support and guidance they offered me over the years.

Secondly, I would want to thank coaches Muhammed Abbas, Laszlo Csaba, Bobby Williamson and Micho Sredojevic, who believed in me and offered me the platform to reach my full potential.

I would also like to thank former FUFA President Lawrence Mulindwa, current President Eng. Moses Magogo and coach Asuman Lubowa for the huge role they played in guiding me throughout my career.

When I look back over the years, I feel fortunate to have played alongside some outstanding players (past and present).

I would want to particularly thank the former Uganda captains Ibrahim Sekagya and David Obua for helping me develop into the player I became.

For my current Cranes teammates, thank you for accepting me as your leader.

I would also like to say a special thank you to the fans – those that supported and motivated me and even those that didn’t believe in me.

You all motivated me to improve every other year.

I intend to continue with my football playing career at club level.

I wish the national football team all the best in future.

I will always remain close to the team in any other capacity because football is my life.

For God and My Country

Yours in Sports,

Uganda Cranes Captain, Geofrey Massa

C.C FUFA President

C.C FUFA CEO

C.C FUFA Communications Department

C.C National Football Team Head Coach

March 29, 2017
Uganda FIFA referees and Assessors course starts at the FUFA Technical centre in Njeru

The FIFA Member Associations (M.A) Referees & Assessors’ Course got underway at FUFA Technical Center in Njeru on Sunday.

The world soccer governing body FIFA together with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) are holding a week long course for the Elite Referees and Assessors.

The course is set to run from Sunday 26th to Friday 31st March.

Aisha Ssemambo during the fitness tests

Ali Kalyango, the FUFA Referees fitness instructor noted that the course started on Sunday with physical fitness tests at Jinja Secondary School playground.

“On Sunday morning at 9:00am, physical fitness tests and sprints were conducted all went well.We conducted medical tests on yesterday to prepare for today’s (Sunday) physical fitness test. There after the Assessors and Referees will be taken through various lectures that will consist of theory and practical sessions’ Kalyango stated.

FIFA Assistant referee Dorcus Atuhairwe during the sprints at Jinja SS on Sunday

The course will climax on Friday 31st March 2017 with Fufa President Engineer Moses Magogo expected to preside over for the closing ceremony.

The course is being handled by two FIFA referees instructors; Felix Tangawarina (Technical Instructor from Zimbabwe) and Mark Mzengo (Fitness Instructor from Malawi).

Referees: Karangwa Ronald, Muhabi Alex, Ochom Joseph, Sabilla Ali Chelangat, Ssali Mashood, Mugerwa Shafic, Mulundwa Hakim, Ssenteza Muhammad, Mwesigwa Ronald, Olemu George, Okello Lee, Bakasambe Rajab, Oloya William, Kakooza Emmy, Lusambya Solomon, Turyomuriwe Samuel, Katenya Ronald, Mutonyi Jane, Nagaddya Cynthia Catherine, Akoyi Anna, Aisha ssemambo, Mulungi Diana, Naigaga Habiba, Nantabo Lydia Wanyama, Kaddu Ali, Okello Dick, Gilbert Ngyendo, Nakitto Marex Nkumbi, Nantabo Wanyama, Oula David, Battle Denis, Sekimwanyi Ali, Kintu Ivan Bayige, Bugembe Hussein, Masembe Isa

Assessors: Ronnie Kalema, Kabali Grace, Kisubi Zephas, Kalyango Ali, Basiisa Hussein, Ndaula M.S, Ssendyowa Abbasi, Asua Luke, Alani Leo, Wagana Jimmy, Edrungi Alfred, Nattabi Harriet, Kimumwe Mansoor, Nelson Nsubuga, David D.Katabira, Kimbugwe Hilary, Hajj Kamulegeya Yusuf, Matovu Suleiman, Kiwanuka Edirisa, Isabirye Michael, Waiswa Ajab, Nkono Amin Bbosa, Ayub Khamisi, Hajj Siraji Katono, Mwanje Joseph, Kizito Rahma, Katumba Wamala George, Masiko John Bosco, Mike Letti, Egesa Samuel, and Wanyama Freddie

MAIN PHOTO: The Assessors during training at the FUFA Technical centre in Njeru.

March 26, 2017
Uganda – France Friendship Week: The Cranes win over France Military team

Uganda – France Friendship Week:

Friendly Match: Uganda Cranes 3-1 France Military

The Uganda Cranes has defeated the France military team 3-1 in a match organized to climax the France – Uganda friendship-week at the Mandela National Stadium on Saturday evening.

Geofrey Sserunkuma, team captain Emmanuel Okwi and Martin Kiiza were all on target for the Uganda Cranes.

Mouslin Andhum pulled a goal back for the visitors who gave the lively spectators a great show.

Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic made five changes at the start of the second stanza of the game.

AbdulMalick Vitalis Tabu, Martin Kiiza, Ivan Ntege, Savio Kabugo and Milton Karisa were introduced for Geofrey Sserunkuma, Ambrose Kirya, Deus Bukenya, Erisa Ssekisambu and Mutyaba Muzamil respectively.

The other change saw Nelson Senkatuka take Okwi’s place as Majwega worn the captain’s arm band for the last 20 minutes.

At the end of the game, a trophy was handed to Okwi and coach Micho by the French Ambassador.

French Ambassador in Uganda Stephanie Rivoal, FUFA boss Moses Magogo and the minister of presidency in charge of Kampala city Betty Namisango Kamya were some of the dignitaries who followed the game.

“This is a historic match. I thank the French Embassy and Ambassador for the initiative. Let us maintain this spirit” FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo noted before Okwi was handed with the trophy.

On her side, the French Ambassador appreciated FUFA and the entire Ugandan community for the cooperation and love throughout the Uganda – France week celebrations.

“We promised a great show and it has been exhibited. The French team fought like lions. They gave you a good match and i want to thank FUFA and the entire Ugandan community for the mutual cooperation throughout the week” H.E Stephanie Rivoal noted.

Uganda Cranes ambassador Bebe Cool was among the music artists who entertained the fans after the music.

Others were Hellen Lukomwa, Hip Pop star Navio and Eddie Kenzo.

The historic match marked the end of the festivities to celebrate the Uganda – France Week week.

French Military Team XI

Team Line ups:

Uganda Cranes XI: Isma Watenga (G.K), Nico Wakiro Wadada, Brian Majwega, Deus Bukenya, Halid Lwaliwa, Muzamil Mutyaba, Erisa Ssekisambu, Moses Waiswa, Geofrey Sserunkuma, Ambrose Kirya, Emmanuel Okwi

Subs: Keni Saidi (G.K), Habib Kavuma, Savio Kabugo, Ivan Ntege, Martin Kiiza, AbdulMalick Vitalis Tabu, Karisa Milton, Nelson Senkatuka

French Military XI: Accart Quentin, Maetini Anthony, Jesy Trinite, Yann Oggad, Julien Gallo, Abdeltif Bouyahia, Jean Philippe Sabo, Andhum Mouslin, Rylan Lamonnier, Thio Jougounour, Remi Mareval

Subs: Yenemy Lagarde, Yoann Bizot, Alexis Machlinski, Cedric Rossignol, Martin Faras

The match officials with the two sides’ captains

Match Officials:

Referee: Ali Sabila Chelengat

Assistant Referee 1: Hussein Bugembe

Assistant Referee 2: Ronald Katenya

Fourth Official: Brian Nsubuga Miiro

Match Commissioner: Abbasi Ssendyowa

Media Officer: Ahmed Hussein

March 25, 2017
Uganda – France Friendship week: Uganda Cranes starting XI

Uganda – France Friendship Week: Uganda Cranes Vs France Military Team

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (4:00 p.m)

Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m and all official FUFA Social media plat forms

Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic has named the starting eleven that will face the French Military team in the friendly match at Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole on Saturday.

Emmanuel Okwi is the team captain.

The game will mark the climax of the Uganda – France week celebrations.

Uganda Cranes XI: Isma Watenga (G.K), Nico Wakiro Wadada, Brian Majwega, Deus Bukenya, Halid Lwaliwa, Muzamil Mutyaba, Erisa Ssekisambu, Moses Waiswa, Geofrey Sserunkuma, Ambrose Kirya, Emmanuel Okwi

Subs: Benjamin Ochan (G.K), Keni Saidi (G.K), Habib Kavuma, Savio Kabugo, Ivan Ntege, Martin Kiiza, AbdulMalick Vitalis Tabu, Karisa Milton, Nelson Senkatuka

March 25, 2017
Uganda – France Friendship week match: Micho names 23 players

Friendly Match: Saturday, 25^th March 2017

Uganda Cranes Vs French Military Team

At Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Namboole (4 p.m)

Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m

Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic has named a team of 23 players who will face the French Military team in a friendly match on Saturday at Nelson Mandela National Stadium.

All the players are locally based with no foreign based player on the team.

Locally based players who traveled to Machakos for the 1 all draw against Kenya in the international friendly match on Thursday have been all maintained.

Habib Kavuma with a clearence during the game against Kenya. He is one of the players maintained on the team

The addition of players from the other local sides is a clear indication that the coach and the technical team are planning early for the up coming CHAN 2018 qualifiers.

The team regroups on Friday at noon (Sky Hotel in Ntinda) before having lunch together and thereafter train as a unit later on Friday at Namboole.

The match against the French Military team will mark the climax of the Uganda – France friendship week.

Full Squad:

Goalkeepers: Benjamin Ochan (KCCA), Isma Watenga (Vipers) and Saidi Keni (Proline)

Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadada (Vipers) and Deus Bukenya (Vipers), Aggrey Madoi (Vipers) and Brian Majwega (KCCA), Habibu Kavuma (KCCA), Timothy Dennis Awany (KCCA), Halid Lwaliwa (Vipers) and Rashid Toha (Onduparaka)

Midfielders: Shafiq Kagimu (URA), Ivan Ntege (KCCA), Ambrose Kirya (SC Villa), Muzamil Mutyaba (KCCA), Moses Waiswa (Vipers), Martin Kiiza (SC Villa), AbdulMalick Vitalis Tabu (SC Villa)

Forwards: Emmanuel Arnold Okwi (SC Villa), Geofrey Sserunkuma (KCCA), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers) Milton Karisa (Vipers) and Nelson Senkatuka (Proline)

March 24, 2017
Rivals Uganda, Kenya play to a One all draw in the International build up

International Build Up: Kenya 1-1 Uganda

Joy for Goal: Moses Waiswa celebrates his strike at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos

Moses Waiswa scored on his debut as Uganda Cranes played to a one all draw with Kenya Harambee Stars during the international friendly match played at the Kenyatta stadium in Machakos on Thursday.

The Vipers’ player cancelled a first half goal from Michael Olunga as the two traditional rivals shared the spoils.

Habib Kavuma with a clearance during the game

The FUFA President, Eng.Moses Magogo (second from left) watched the match in Machakos

Left back Godfrey ‘Jajja Walu’ Walusimbi with a customary drive during the game. Walusimbi turns out for Kenyan side Gor Mahia

The Uganda Cranes team inspection

The match was watched by a good number of Ugandans including the FUFA President, Eng Moses Magogo and some FUFA delegates.

Uganda Cranes will return later on Thursday night ahead of a charity match with the France Military team at Namboole stadium.

This was the 77th meeting between the two sister countries. There are now 23 draws, 22 wins for Kenya and Uganda remains ahead with 32.

The match officials pose for a photo with the two team captains. Hassan Wasswa Mawanda skippered the Uganda Cranes and so did Brian Mandela for the Kenya Harambee Stars

Team Line ups:

Kenya XI: Patrick Matasi, Musa Mohammed (Simon Mbugua 55’), Robinson Kamura, Brian Mandela, Aoud Omar, Anthony Akumu, Johanna Omollo (Osborne Monday 81’), Samuel Onyango (Bernard Mangoli 77’), Noah Wafula (John Makwatta 59’), Michael Olunga (Paul Were 60’), Jesse Were

Unused Subs: David Okello, Kenneth Muguna

Uganda Cranes XI: Benjamin Ochan (GK) Nico Wakiro Wadada (Martin Kizza 75’), Godfrey Walusimbi (Kirizestom Ntambi 65’), Murshid Jjuuko, Timothy Awany, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (Captain), Emmanuel Okwi (Milton Karisa 70’), Muzamiru Mutyaba (Waiswa Moses 79’), Geofrey Serunkuma, Shafik Batambuze (Brian Majwega), Habib Kavuma(Yassar Mugerwa)

Unused sub: Isma Watenga (GK)

March 23, 2017
New dawn for Uganda Cranes ahead of the international build up against Kenya

International Friendly Match: Thursday, 23^rd March 2017

Kenya Vs Uganda

Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos

Time: 3pm

Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredejovic has described the international friendly match against Kenya as a new dawn for the team.

Micho told www.fufa.co.ug that the international friendly which will be played in Machakos is indeed a new beginning for the national team ahead of the future engagements.

This international match against Kenya and the others in March are the only games where we can test, try and experiment players with the intention to widen the pool of players ahead of the June AFCON qualifier against Cape Verde in Praia, the July/August CHAN 2018 qualifiers and the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers of August/ September

Since arriving in Kenya on Tuesday morning, the Uganda Cranes checked in at Gelian Hotel.

They had two training sessions with one change of Sc Villa Jogoo’s Martin Kizza replacing Joseph Ochaya of KCCA FC.

The two CECAFA rivals will face off in a friendly match on Thursday at Machakos stadium in Nairobi. Cranes will retrun home to play a charity match against Frane Military team on Saturday at Namboole stadium.

Squad in Machakos.

Goalkeepers: Benjamin Ochan (KCCA), Isma Watenga (Vipers)

Defenders: Nico Wakiro Wadad (Vipers), Timothy Denis Awanyi (KCCA), Habib Kavuma (KCCA), Murushid Juuko (Simba, Tanzania), Shafiq Batambuze (Tusker, Kenya), Godfrey Walusimbi (Gor Mahia, Kenya)

Midfielders: Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (Nijmeh, Lebanon), Kirizestom Ntambi (Jimma Aba Buna), Yassar Mugerwa (Saint George, Ethiopia), Moses Waiswa (Vipers), Muzamil Mutyaba (KCCA), Martin Kizza (SC Villa),Brian Majwega (KCCA)

Strikers: Geofrey Sserunkuma (KCCA), Emmanuel Okwi Arnold (SC Villa), Milton Karisa (Vipers)

Leader of Delegation: Richard Ochom (FUFA Executive Member)

Team Coordinator: Faisal Muhammad

March 23, 2017
FUFA launches campaign for new national team jersey, 5M at stake for best design

Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has officially launched the campaign to usher in a new design for the national teams’ jerseys.

Click here for details on how to enter the competition Cranes designs jerseys

FUFA President Eng.Moses Magogo launched the campaign during the weekly press conference held on Wednesday morning at the Federation’s headquarters in Mengo, Kampala.

‘Like we communicated earlier, today is the occasion where the historic jersey that the Cranes used in the AFCON qualification campaign of 2015 and 2017 and in AFCON finals in Gabon will be retired as as away of honour’ said the FUFA President.

The campaign will be open to the general public to summit their entries for a month starting today (22nd March 2017) to 22nd April.

‘We open a campaign whereby for one month starting today will be running for any Ugandan, or group of Ugandans or organisation that is interested in coming up with the new design’ he indicated.

The entries will be open in three categories including the Uganda Cranes (men), Crested Cranes (women) and the other subsequent national teams including the Sand Cranes (national beach soccer team), Futsal, Kobs (U23), Hippos (U20) and Cubs (U17).

The jersey colours for Uganda Cranes will be 3 sets;

Set 1 Predominantly red (home kit),

Set 2: Predominantly yellow (home Kit)

Set 3: Predominantly white for away games.

The jersey colours for Uganda National women team-Crested Cranes will be 3 sets ;

Set 1 Predominantly red (home kit),

Set 2: Predominantly yellow (home Kit)

Set 3: Predominantly white (away kit)

The other categories (below)will have same design but different shades with red, yellow, black and white colours maintained;

Set 1: NAtional Junior teams-Kobs (U23), Hippos (U20) and Cubs (U17) -Men and Women

Set 2: Sand Cranes (national beach soccer team) -Men and Women

Set 3: Futsal (Men)

‘Unlike previously where all the national teams have been using the same design, this time round the Uganda Cranes and Crested cranes jerseys will be different in design while the other subsequent teams will also have another design but differnet shades’ added Magogo.

The overall winner with all the nine (9) designs will be announced by a panel set up by FUFA and will walk away with a cash prize of UGX 5 million shillings following the terms and conditions in place. The winner will also watch Uganda Cranes games at home free for one year.

MAIN PHOTO: FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo presented the Uganda Cranes historic jerseys to H.E Stephanie Rivoal Ambassador of France to Uganda with captain Geoffrey Massa’s jersey. Yunus Sentamu and Hassan Wasswa jerseys were also given to the France Military team officials who visited FUFA House on Wednesday.

March 22, 2017
Ambassador of France to Uganda hails FUFA, Cranes

The Embassy of France in Uganda took a decision to celebrate the long-term friendship that unites both countries by a special week with a series of activities and particular moments.

The celebrations dubbed the Uganda-France friendship week to mark the Francophone Day started on 18th March and will end on 25th March with a football match.

The event that will climax the celebrations will be the game between Uganda Cranes and the France Military team on Saturday at Mandela National stadium.

Her Excellency, Stephanie Rivoal, the Ambassador of France to Uganda believes football is one of the ways that can be used to bolster the bilateral relations between the two countries.

H.E Stephanie Rivoal Ambassador of France to Uganda addressing the media at FUFA House on Wednesday

‘It is my first time to visist FUFA houseand I am impressed with what i have seen. Mr. President thank you for the good work and image I am seeing here. Uganda is coming to the face of world football after the participation at AFCON in Gabon and we thought the friendly game will be able to bolster the relations between Uganda and France’ she said in a press briefing held at FUFA house on Wednesday morning.

‘The game between Uganda Cranes and the France Military team could be the foundation of very many things that may come in future and therefore I call upon the public to embrace this chance’ she added.

‘The France military team is very good and expect a tough game. We know Uganda Cranes is equally a good side fresh from Gabon but the visitors will put up a good show on Saturday’ added the Ambassador.

The Leader of Delegation-France Military team Lt. Col. Eric Ponsot sent out a diplomatic warning to Uganda Cranes head coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic and his players.

‘We are not here to relax. We are playing for a charity but expect a competitive match on saturday. I hope the game ends 2-1 and not by a big score’ said Ponsot.

Leader of Delegation-France Military team Lt. Col. Eric Ponsot at the FUFA weekly press conference on Wednesday morning

FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo thanked the Ambassador for the great initiative and indicated this is a great opportunity for Ugandan football.

‘It is an honour for us to have such a great delegation of this magnitude partnering with FUFA. We are aware of the fact that France has been a platform for many African footballers to showcase their talent including our very own, the late Majid Musisi who played at Rennes in the 1990s; stated FUFA President.

‘So as FUFA, we are not taking this partnership lightly because we believe it can be important in the years to come’ added added Magogo.

Fans will pay UGX 5,000 and 20,000 as entrance fee and all the proceeds will be used to buy sports equipment for 5 schools that include Kibuli SS, Lubiri SS, Kisasi Primary school.

FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson indicated that the French Embassy’s programme of giving back to the community coincides with the Federation’s strategy to engage the public through football.

FUFA CEO Edgar Watson highlight’s the federation’s importance of being part of the Uganda-France Friendship week that will climax with Uganda Cranes playing the France Military team in a chairty match at Nambole on Saturday

‘As FUFA, we have 6 Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) programmes this year and we have already had one in Luzira Upper Prisons where former Uganda Cranes players visisted the inmates. So we believe this is a good campaign that we decided to support’ said Edgar Watson.

The Ambassador enjoying the moment in the studios of 102.1 FUFA fm.

The Ambassador was also taken on a guided tour of 102.1 FUFA fm before taking group photos with the secretariat staff.

The Ambasador Stephanie Rivoal and FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo with 102.1 FUFA fm staff

FUFA Secretariat for photo moment with the Ambassador (3rd L) together with FUFA President (4th L) and FUFA CEO (extreme R). L-R Sumayah Kiwanuka, Sarah Birungi, Sharon Nalunga, Esther Musoke and Harriet Nakimbugwe

The game is sanctioned by CAF and FIFA and will be handled by FIFA referees Ali Sabila(centre referee), Hussein Bugembe (1st Assistant referee), Ronald Katenya(2nd Assistant referee), Brian Miiro Nsubuga(4th official), Abbas Ssendyowa(match commissioner).

MAIN PHOTO: L-R France Military Team Manager Christophe Horta, FUFA CEO Watson, FUFA President, France Ambassador to UG Stephanie Rivoal, France Militray Leader of delegation Lt. Col. Eric Ponsot

March 22, 2017