The list of teams that are to take part in the Round of 32 is taking shape as five more join in.
Mbale Heroes FC overcame Araka FC 2–0 at the Mbale Municipal Stadium in a match that was televised by FUFA Tv. Junior Mukisa headed home the first goal, and the visiting side’s fate was sealed by Akiram Muzanyi in the 27th minute.
Booma FC lost to Kigezi Highlands FC 2–1 through goals from Seremba Joseph and Mutungi Muniru. Agaba Ashiraf scored for the visitors before the halftime whistle was blown, but it wasn’t enough to give his side the nod to the next round.
At the UICT Grounds, Water FC lost to FUFA Big League side Lugazi FC 5–4 in a match that was determined by spot kicks. At full time, the score read 1–1.
Wakiso Giants FC won their encounter against Fort Portal Boda Boda FC 3–1. The purple sharks were two goals up at the half time mark. In the second half, the home side pulled back one only for their fate to be sealed by Frank Ssebuufu in the 87th minute. Moses Aliro and Norman Ojik scored the other two goals for the visiting side.
Adjumani Town Council FC eliminated Simba FC 4–2 after spot kicks. At full time, the score read 1–1.
Results – February 3rd, 2023
Mbale Heroes FC 2–0 Araka FC
Kigezi Homeboyz FC 2–1 Booma FC
Simba FC 1(2)–1(4) Adjumani Town Council FC
JLOS FC – Busoga United FC
Water FC 1(4)–1(5) Lugazi FC
Fort Portal Boda Boda FC 1–3 Wakiso Giants FC
Next Matches – February 4th, 2023
Paidha Black Angels FC v Kyetume FC, Barokoro Ground – Zombo
Packwach young Stars FC v Onduparaka FC, St. Mary’s Omach Ground
Bunyaruguru United FC v Kaaro karungi FC, Nyakasharu Playground- Rubirizi
SC Tawai v Mbarara City FC, Angwecibange P/S Ground – Dokolo
Nakapelimen FC v Soltilo Bright Stars FC, Naetawae P/S Ground, Moroto
Kisugu United FC, Blacks Power FC, Kiyinda Boys FC and Gorilla Highlands SC are the latest teams to qualify for the Round of 32.
The Luzira-based side, Maroons FC, lost 2-1 to Kisugu United FC; a team that plays in the Kampala Regional League while fellow StarTimes Uganda Premier League side, Blacks Power FC, won their match by a goal to march on.
Kiyinda Boys FC and Gorilla Highlands SC knocked out Gadaffi FC and Kataka FC, respectively, with the visiting sides failing to score a goal.
FUFA Big League side Police FC and StarTimes Uganda Premier League side SC Villa are the latest teams to qualify for the Round of 32.
A lone goal from Joseph Ssentume in the 66th minute sealed the fate of Apuutun FC after he capitalized on Benard Kateregga’s corner kick in the early kickoff match.
SC Villa won 6-0 at King’s Park as Kireka United FC hosted them. Rogers Kiwanuka and Hassan Musana scored braces, and Charles Bbaale scored a goal. The home side conceeded an own goal in the second half through Yaweh Twaha.
On Tuesday, January 24, 2023, the 49th edition Stanbic Uganda Cup round of 64 draws were held at the FUFA Complex.
FUFA Competitions Director Aisha Nalule conducted the draw in the presence of FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, and Stanbic Bank Brand and Marketing Manager, Diana Kahunde.
“A record 308 teams competed in the Regional Preliminaries to determine which 33 teams joined the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and Big League sides in the Round of 64” – Aisha Nalule, Competitions Director.
“This is an increase from the 249 teams that competed in the previous season (2021/22) and the 159 teams that competed in the 2019/20 season” – Aisha Nalule added.
“We have been here since 2018 and we commit to continue supporting the competition.” – Diana Kahunde, Brand and Marketing Manager – Stanbic Bank Uganda.
“I encourage parents to involve children in sports. There is a lot of hidden talent in the country” Diana Kahunde added.
FUFA 3rd Vice President – Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi
Full Draws
Pajule Lions FC v NEC
Kajansi United FC v Express FC
Blue Star FC v Luweero United FC
Fort Portal Boda Boda FC v Wakiso Giants FC
Apuutun FC v Police FC
Kireka United FC v SC Villa
Kiyinda Boys FC v Gaddafi FC
Kigezi Homeboyz FC v Booma FC
Ntinda United FC v Ndejje University FC
SC Tawai v Mbarara City FC
Budondo United FC v Calvary FC
Busei FC v Jinja North United FC
Bujumbura FC v Vipers SC
Junior Eagles FC v Soroti FC
Bushenyi Veterans FC v UPDF FC
Bukedea Central FC v Blacks Power FC
Paidha Black Angels SC v Kyetume FC
Simba FC v Adjumani Town Council FC
JLOS FC v Busoga United FC
Sparks SC v BUL FC
Gorilla Highlands SC v Kataka FC
Kisugu United FC v Maroons FC
Free Stars FC v Kitara FC
Admin FC v Northern Gateway SC
Water FC v Lugazi FC
Uganda Pentecostal University v URA FC
Mbale Heroes FC v Araka FC
Nakapelimen FC v Soltilo bright Stars FC
Packwach Youngstars SC v Onduparaka FC
Bunyaruguru United FC v Kaaro Karungi FC
Elite FC v Arua Hill SC
KJT FC v KCCA FC
The round of 64 will be played between January 27, 2023 and Febuary 3, 2023.
The Final of the 49th Edition will be held at Akii-Bua Memorial Stadium, Lira.
The 2022/23 season proper of the Stanbic Bank Uganda Cup gets underway this month with a record 308 teams having competed in the Regional Preliminaries to determine which 33 teams joined the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and Big League sides in the Round of 64.
The 308 teams competing in the Regional Preliminaries is an increase from the 249 teams that competed in the previous season (2021/22) and the 159 teams that competed in the 2019/20 season.
Kampala Region had the highest number of teams in the Preliminary Round with 50 teams competing followed by West Nile Region that had 46 teams. Buganda Region had 41 teams while Northern and Eastern each had 40 teams competing. Kitara, Western and Eastern regions had 33, 30 and 28 teams respectively competing within their regions.
The growth in the number of team is testament to the transformation of the competition since the coming on board of Stanbic Bank as title sponsors in 2018 and Kansai Plascon as co-sponsors in 2021 which has seen the prize money for the competition grow from UGX 90 million in 2018 to UGX 120 million in 2019 to UGX 166 million in 2021 and UGX 179 million in 2022.
Draws for the Stanbic Bank Round of 64 are scheduled for tomorrow Tuesday 24th January 2023 at FUFA House at 10:30am with matches scheduled to be played between 28th January and 6th February 2023.
Kampala Region (5) Kireka United FC Ntinda United FC Kisugu United FC Water FC KJT
Buganda Region (5) Free Stars FC Simba FC Kiyinda Boys FC Kajjansi United FC Sparks SC
Eastern Region (4) Admin FC Mbale Heroes FC Budondo United FC Busei FC
Kitara Region (4) BlueStar FC Bujumbura Utd SC Fort Portal Boda Boda FC Uganda Pentecostal University FC
North Eastern Region (4) Bukedea Central FC Junior Eagles FC Apuutun FC Nakapelimen FC
Northern Region (4) JLOS FC Pajule Lions FC Elite FC SC Tawai
West Nile Region (3) Araka FC Paidha Black Angels SC Pakwach Young Stars SC
Western Region (4) Kigezi HomeBoyz FC Bunyaruguru United FC Bushenyi Veterans FC Gorilla Highlands SC
Governance is a key pillar in the management of football and FUFA has put a lot of emphasis in this area. It is upon this back ground that the FUFA Executive Committee convenes quarterly to deliberate on football matters and come up with policies for implementation. The 27th FUFA Exco meeting was held on Wednesday 31st August 2022 at FUFA House, Mengo.
The key decisions are;
Governance & Administration
Rewards and Sanctions Committee
The FUFA Executive Committee approved establishment of the Rewards and Sanctions Committee. The committee will primarily be responsible for handling disciplinary matters as well as recognition and reward for good performance at the FUFA Secretariat.
The Adhoc Committee has;
Sam Mpiima- Chairman
Dr. Azah Taib-Member
Kibazo Peter- Member
Julian Namuganga-Member
Sheba Ampaire- Member
FUFA Centenary Celebrations
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the establishment of the FUFA @100 years Committee. The committee will be responsible for organising events and activities to mark the upcoming Centenary of FUFA in 2024.
The Committee has;
Rogers Byamukama-Chairman
Rogers Mulindwa- Member
Sabiiti Muwanga-Member
Ahmed Hussein-Member
Eric Kifampa-Member
Players Status Regulations
The FUFA Executive Committee approved proposals from the Rules Review Commission (RRC) for amendments to Regulations on status and transfer of players. The approved proposals are;
All football players featuring in FUFA Official Competitions at all levels should be registered on the FUFA Connect System by season 2023/2024. This also takes into account players in FUFA authorised Competitions.
Allow registration of players whose contracts expire during competition period
Youth football player agreements
School-player scholarship agreements for a maximum of three years
Minor players to be registered on FUFA Connect System
Training Compensation fee of UGX 500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Shillings) has been set per year for a registered player starting at the age of 12 till 23 years for domestic transfers.
Amateur players will remain regulated to stay at a club for two years for stability and growth of a player.
Football Development
Education Fund
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the creation of the FUFA Education Fund to aid members of the football family in enhancing their knowledge in various fields of the game. The fund will, among others
Support the less privileged individuals
Ease pressure on office of the President
Make education affordable
Establish and grow trust in the football family
Match General Coordinators
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the proposal of FUFA General Coordinators (GCs) to be enlisted as match officials in matches of the Uganda Premier League, FUFA Women Super League, Uganda Cup, The FUFA Drum and FUFA Cup Final matches. The FUFA GC shall put on the FUFA authorised badge at all matches and effectively replaces the Match Commissioner and work with the Referees Assessor, Centre Referee, Reserve Referee (4th Official), and 2 Assistant Referees.
Capacity Building Curriculum
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the FUFA Education Curriculum which has been developed for courses in Football Administration and Management, Safety and Security, Refereeing, Coaching, Sports Science, Medical and Nutrition.
FUFA Inter District Football Competition
The FUFA Executive Committee approved a proposal to establish a grass roots-based football competition (FUFA Inter District Football Competition).
Competitions, Refereeing and Licensing
Uganda Cup Final
The FUFA Executive Committee approved Northern Region Football Association to host the Final of the Uganda Cup 2022/2023 season. The final will be hosted in Lira at Akii Bua Stadium.
Proline FC’s request to change region
The FUFA Executive Committee approved that Proline FC plays in the Buganda Regional League for 2022/2023 season. Proline FC acquired Nalubaale FC that was started in Buikwe, Buganda region.
However FUFA Exco advised Proline FC to apply for registration in the Kampala Regional League for the 2023/24 season.
Change of Club names
The FUFA Executive Committee approved requests from three clubs to change names. Clubs whose requests were not approved, means they did not meet the requirements at the preliminary stage for change of name.
The successful clubs are;
Kyambura Football to Bunyaruguru Tigers Football Club
Kazinga Lions Football Club to Bunyaruguru United Football Club
Busiro United Football Club to Kiboga United Sports Club
National teams
Beach Soccer National Team- Sand Cranes
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the proposal to reinforce the Technical team of the Uganda National Beach Soccer team-Sand Cranes. The Exco endorsed the appointment of Angelo Schirinzi from Switzerland for the period that will see the Sand Cranes feature at the COSAFA Beach Soccer Championship in South Africa and the 2022 AFCON Beach Soccer Finals in Mozambique.
Uganda Women National Senior Team- Crested Cranes
The FUFA Executive Committee declared that the positions of the technical team of Crested Cranes have fallen vacant following the completion of their assignment for which they were appointed that ended with the WAFCON Finals in Morocco. FUFA will declare as and when the application process for the vacant positions starts.
Community Clubs Programme
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the FUFA Community Clubs Programme-a model that will create sustainable and accountable clubs built to last. The FUFA Exco provided potential areas of focus where the programme will be first implemented. Acholi, Tooro and Masaka were earmarked for the kickoff the programme.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Final Vipers SC 1-3 BUL FC Booma Grounds, Masindi
BUL FC have won their first ever Stanbic Uganda Cup after beating Vipers SC 3-1 in the final played at Booma Grounds in Masindi.
Striker Karim Ndugwa grabbed a brace while Simon Peter Oketch scored the other for the Alex Isabirye coached side. Captain Halid Lwaliwa scored the consolation for the Venoms.
BUL FC players celebrating one of the goals against Vipers SC.
The Jinja based clinched their first ever major trophy with a 3-1 win over last season’s winners Vipers.
Ndugwa broke the deadlock in the 28th minute before Oketch doubled the lead three minutes to the halftime.
It was joy and celebrations for BUL FC at Masindi Stadium.
Ndugwa made it 3-0 with a close range tap in from a well laid ball by Oketch in the 53rd minute.
Lwaliwa pulled one back with a header in the 71st minute but it was not enough to inspire a comeback.
This is the third time Alex Isabirye has won the Uganda Cup having previously won the 2012 edition with URA FC and the 2013 edition with SC Victoria University.
BUL FC have bagged Shs50M as prize money while the runners up Vipers walked away with Shs25M.
Karim Ndugwa emerged as the top scorer with nine goals while his teammates Emmanuel Kalyowa and Walter Ochora were named best goalkeeper and defender respectively.
Top scorer Karim Ndugwa receives a set of TV from Stanbic Bank Commerical Manager, Anthony Namanya.Masindi District LV5 Chairman Cosmas Byaruhanga hands over a TV set to the best goalkeeper Emmanuel Kalyowa.Simon Peter Oketch gets his award from Vipers SC Patron Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa.
Oketch, who is also a product of the FUFA Juniors League, was named the best midfielder.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Final Sunday 12/06/2022 Vipers SC Vs Bul FC Booma Grounds, Masindi 3PM
Vipers shred BUL FC 8-1 in the final of the previous edition played at the Njeru Technical centre in Njeru to win their third Stanbic Uganda Cup trophy while it was the first time Bul FC reached the final.
This year’s edition is the repeat of last year’s edition as the two sides made it to the final. A pre-match press briefing was held on Thursday 9/06/2022 at FUFA House Mengo to hear from both teams preparedness ahead of the highly anticipated final.
Bul FC was represented by Head Coach Alex Isabirye while Goalkeeping Coach Ibrahim Mugisha stood in for Vipers SC.
While addressing the media, Coach Alex Isabirye said that his side is this time well prepared to lock horns with the Uganda Premier league champions and this time not to participate but make history.
“Last year, we were not prepared enough to play against Vipers SC and that is why we lost. This time we are ready for the game and I am not saying we are going to win or lose the game but we are learning our to compete. We are tied of participating and so we want to also make history.” Said Alex Isabirye before adding.
“I have no pressure, I know anything can happen on Sunday, so we are ready for the game. If we win the Cup we shall represent the country in the CAF Confederation Cup. I am a believer and I know we are going to win on Sunday and we shall represent the nation on the continent.”
On the other side Ibrahim, Ibrahim Mugisha the Vipers SC Goalkeeping Coach anticipates a tough contest against BUL in final of the 48th edition of the Stanbic Uganda cup and Expressed their readiness to win the trophy and write history by wining a double.
“I don’t think it will be the same as last year. I congratulate coach Alex Isabirye for reaching back to back finals. It’s not going to be an easy final according to the environment, Stadium and I expected a tough match which we will hopefully win.’ Said Coach Ibrahim Mugisha who later added that.
‘We would love to go in history of winning the double and we are working hard with the players so as to reach the fate.’
Vipers shred Mbarara City 6-1 on aggregate in the two legged semifinal of the competition to prevail to the final while the Jinja based Oil Makers beat Region league side Booma on aggregate 6-1 in the semifinal to set up a repeat of last year’s final.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal, Return Leg BUL FC 1-0 Booma FC
BUL FC progress 6-1 on aggregate
The final of the 48th Stanbic Uganda Cup edition will be between current holders Vipers SC and BUL FC. This follows successful completion of the semifinal contests on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
Vipers SC overcame Mbarara City FC while BUL FC eliminated Booma FC to set up a repeat of last season’s final.
It should be noted that the aforementioned teams faced off in the 2020/21 final at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru with Vipers thrashing BUL 8-0.
Despite Booma FC marching BUL FC for the entire game at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe Karim Ndugwa’s half goal gave the latter Victory to cruise to the final.
The veteran forward headed home Ivan Wani’s cross to settle the return leg contest and ensure the Jinja based outfit returned to the final.
The goal took his tally to seven in the Cup this season and leads the scoring chart heading into the final slated for 12th June 2022 at Masindi Stadium.
BUL FC therefore advanced 6-1 on aggregate, having won the first leg fixture 5-1 in Masindi.
In the other semifinal contest, Vipers won the reverse fixture against Mbarara City 4-0 to also reach the final 6-1 on aggregate.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal,Return Leg Wednesday, 18th May 2022 BUL FC Vs Booma FC Kyabazinga Stadium,Bugembe Kickoff :3PM Live: FUFA TV, UBC TV & 102.2 FUFA fm
BUL FC host Booma FC in the Stanbic Uganda Cup semifinal return leg at the Kyanzinga Stadium in Jinja hoping to secure a berth into the final.
With an upper hand heading into the return leg after winning the first fixture 5-1 at Masindi Municipal Stadium last week, BUL FC coach Alex Isabirye has warned his charges against complacency.
Isabirye indicates football is unpredictable and anything can happen for them not to reach the final if they do not show full commitment.
BUL FC head coach Alex Isabirye
‘We still have alot to do until the second leg is done, what we did at Masindi Grounds can be replicated at our own home ground and results overturned by our rivals. Yes we have an advantage but we minded less and prepared like it never happened.’ Said Isabirye.
Isabirye further asserts that the target ahead of Wednesday’s clash is to win and advance to the final.
“The 90 minutes left are very crucial in our quest to reach the final and therefore we will go into it with a winning mentality.” He added.
His counterpart Fred Alinaitwe is confident that his team can overturn the first leg result despite chasing a big margin.
Booma FC head coach Fred Alinaitwe
”We believe it is not yet done, all the goals we conceded in the first leg were goalkeeping errors but we are glad that our first choice Goalkeeper Francis Anguzo is back.We have prepared for the return leg and looking forward to overturning the first leg results because anything can happen in football.’ He said.
The winner between BUL FC and Booma FC will face Vipers SC in the final. The Venoms eliminated Mbarara City FC 6-1 on aggregate after winning the return leg 4-0 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal, Return Leg Vipers SC 4-0 Mbarara City FC
Vipers SC progress to the final 6-1 on aggregate
Stanbic Uganda Cup holders Vipers Sports Club progressed to the final of the 48th edition after eliminating Mbarara City FC on Tuesday.
The Venoms put up a brilliant display to dispatch the Ankole Lions, winning the return leg played at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende 4-0.
The two-time winners (2015/16 and 2020/21) had secured a 2-1 advantage from the reverse fixture last week.
In Kitende, Vipers despite creating numerous chances right from onset failed to find the breakthrough in the opening 45 minutes.
The loss of striker Caesar Manzoki through injury midway the first stanza brought more concerns going into the second half.
However, those concerns were easily washed away upon resumption with the Venoms proving clinical and scoring four goals.
The breakthrough came five minutes into the second half with Mbarara City defender Ronald Otti scoring into his own net.
Milton Karisa who also scored in the first leg doubled Vipers advantage before Yunus Ssentamu also appeared on the score sheet.
The icing on the cake from midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga who scored three minutes into added time to seal victory for the Venoms who now await the winner between BUL FC and Booma FC in the other semifinal contest.
BUL who won 5-1 in Masindi last week will host Booma on Wednesday at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe in Jinja.
The final will be played on 28th May 2022 at Masindi Municipal Stadium.
Semifinal,Return Leg Tuesday 17/04/2022 Vipers SC Vs Mbarara City
Vipers SC host Mbarara City in the return leg of the Stanbic Uganda Cup semifinals at St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende.
The first leg at Kakyeka Stadium the home of Mbarara City ended in favour of Vipers with a 2-1 win thanks to Paul Mucureezi and Milton Karisa who were on the score sheet for the newly crowned StarTimes Uganda Premier League Champions and Seiri Arugimaho who scored the consolation for Mbarara City.
Having scored in the first round to clear chances of his team qualifying to the final, Mucureezi eyes his fifth career Uganda Cup final in case Vipers eliminate Mbarara City.
Speaking to www.fufa.co.ug Mucureezi said that this is one milestone he’s looking up to thus more reason to work hard and guide his team to the final.
‘I’ve got many reasons to work tooth and nail to guide my team to the final. It is my job but there are also individual achievements I’m eying. We already have an upper hand after that away win but we won’t sit back rather than working harder like the game is just at level.’ Said Mucureezi.
In 2014, Mucureezi guided KCCA FC to his first career Uganda Cup final against SC Villa at Kyamate in a game which was replayed at Mandela National Stadium but his team lost 3-1 at Mandela National Stadium, he again guided KCCA in 2017 where they beat Paidha Black Angels 2-0. In 2018 Mucureezi reached the final with KCCA FC in a game played at Emokori Ground, Bukedea against his current employers and the Kasasiro boys won 1-0 and the last one was in 2021 against Bul FC where Vipers humiliated BUL FC 8-0.
On the other hand, Vipers SC are eying their sixth final and Mbarara City hoping to make a record of making it to their first final in history in case they overturn the first leg result.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal 2, First Leg Mbarara City FC 1-2 Vipers SC
Stanbic Uganda Cup holders Vipers SC edged Mbarara City in the first leg of the semifinals to take narrow advantage.
Vipers SC Coach Roberto Oliviera and forward Paul Mucureezi after the game
The Venoms secured a 2-1 win on Wednesday in the game played at Kakyeka Stadium.
Paul Mucureezi who formerly featured for the Ankole Lions opened the scores before Milton Karisa doubled the advantage at the stroke of halftime.
Milton Karisa scored the second goal for Vipers SC.
The home side however pulled one back through Seri Arugamaho inside the final ten minutes to give Mbarara City hope ahead of the return leg next week at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
It should be noted that BUL FC earned a comprehensive result in the other semifinal contest, winning 5-1 against Booma FC in Masindi.
The winners on aggregate from the two semifinal contests will advance to the final.
Should Viper SC and BUL maintain their lead after the return leg, this will mean a repeat of last season’s final.
BUL Football Club earned a big advantage from the first leg of the semifinals in the Stanbic Uganda Cup after obliterating Booma FC on Tuesday.
In the game played at Masindi Municipal Stadium, BUL FC put up a brilliant display to dispatch Booma FC with a 5-1 win.
Action between Booma FC and BUL FC at Masindi Municipal Stadium.
The Jinja based side were ruthless especially in the first half, scoring three goals in the opening twelve minutes.
Just Six minutes after kickoff, Simon Peter Oketch had already fired the visitors into the lead, finishing off a Karim Ndugwa’s delivery.
Reagan Kalyowa of BUL FC goes down.
Four minutes later, Richard Wandyaka doubled the lead to give Alex Isabirye’s charges the perfect start.
In the 12th minuter, Oketch once again appeared the score sheet as Booma seemed to be at sixes and sevens.
Leonard Mujuwa gave the hosts some delight in the 21st minute getting what eventually turned out to be a consolation goal.
By the end of the opening stanza, BUL FC led 4-1 with Ibrahim Kazindula getting the fourth goal before Ndugwa put the icing on the cake in the second half, converting from the spot.
Booma FC players walk off the pitch crestfallen after losing to BUL FC.
The result means BUL FC are on course to returning to the final for the second successive year. The second leg will be played between the 17th and the 19th of May 2022.
Current holders Vipers SC will face Mbarara City FC in the other semifinal with the first leg coming on Wednesday, 11th May at Kakyeka Stadium.
Booma Football Club story is a true testament to the common adage, ‘Never Give up on your dreams,’ and the fairytale journey they have had this season has risen many eyebrows.
Not even their failed attempts at earning promotion to the StarTimes FUFA Big League in the previous seasons has broken their resolve and the dream to ascend to greater heights still lives on.
One of the games Booma FC played at Masindi Municipal Stadium.
The Masindi based outfit featured in the playoffs for 2020/21 season only to lose to Terrazzo and Tiles FC.
However, their Cinderella story in this year’s Stanbic Uganda Cup has drawn everyone’s attention, the only team from the regional league to reach the semifinals, joining holders Vipers SC, BUL FC and Mbarara City FC.
Not even in their wildest dreams did the club and its officials envisage such a run but they have punched above weight and one hurlde away from reaching the final.
Daniel Bagambe, one of the club Directors and brain behind the team, rightly says that their quarterfinal win over Maroons ranks highest in the club’s history.
Born and raised in Masindi, Bagambe, known by many as Doctor, is a medical Laboratory Scientist and Public Health expert who works with Baylor Uganda.
Daniel Bagambe one of the club founders.
He is one of the founders of the club in 2012, starting as a group of Ex-players and young stars who used to train at Booma ground in Masindi town.
“We had passion for the game and even when many of us became occupied with work, we still looked at avenues of serving the community through football. That is how we came up with the idea of starting a team,” he recalls.
“We began with local tournaments around Masindi like Christmas cup, Independence cup etc but in 2012, the club registered with FUFA and started in 5th Division.”
The following season, Booma FC earned promotion to 4th Division where they played for three years before eventually advancing to Kitara Regional League in 2016.
Booma Football Club.
“After several attempts to qualify from 4th division we eventually got successfully in 2016,” Bagambe reminisces.
In their first Regional League season, Booma FC finished third. They even came a place better the next campaign (2018/19).
2019/20 season saw Booma FC top Albertine Group but unfortunately lost to Kasese New Villa thus missing out on qualifying to StarTimes FUFA Big League.
The following season, (2020/21), Booma finished top in Albertine Group again and defeated Asingya FC from Edward Group to qualify for the final playoffs at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Booma XI Vs Terrazo and Tiles
Their quest to get promoted to StarTimes FUFA Big once again hit a dead end, losing to Terrazzo and Tiles on penalties.
Currently, Booma FC are top of Albert group, Kitara Region, on 28 points with 9 games to go, and their is a lot of hope that they will this time be third time lucky.
Booma FC fans enjoying a light moment.
The club collects its funding from a team of around 35 managers who constitute a Management group.
“This keeps growing because we identify people in community who love football, follow the team and we bring them on board,” Bagambe explains.
“We also have two partners who support us with possibility of becoming sponsors in the future – Kidawalime Bakery and TUVI establishment dealing in construction and road clearing.”
Bagambe says that they face operational challenges working with limited funding and also managing players under amateur setup and keep them focussed on their dream.
The Stanbic Uganda Cup success has made the bosses buoyant and feel that their dreams are now within reach.
Booma FC has defied odds in the Stanbic Uganda Cup this season.
“Reaching Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinals is our highest achievement in the club’s history. Last season, we were knocked out by Police FC at round of 64, and we want to continue to challenge for more. We are looking forward to challenging even bigger teams remaining in the competition.”
Booma started their Uganda Cup journey in the preliminaries where they beat Kigorobya County FC 2-0. They qualified to the semifinals as best losers after falling to Kagadi United in shootout.
A Booma FC fan carrying a drum.
They faced Kagadi United again in the semifinals and won 3-0 to storm the finals. They were beaten by Bujumbura FC 4-2 in the penalty shootout but had already done enough to qualify for the tournament proper.
In the round of 64, Booma was rewarded with a home tie against Nyamityobora, a side they went on to demolish with a 4-1 win.
At the Round of 32, Booma beat Kajjansi United 1-0 in Masindi to qualify for the round of 16.
They then knocked out TIPSA FC, a side that had earlier knocked out Arua Hill SC, with Clinton Asiimwe and Ashraf Ali scoring a goal each in the 2-0 win.
In the quarterfinals, they were pitted against Maroons FC but the Kitara Regional League side continued to defy odds, recording a 2-1 win to oust the Prison Warders and storm the semifinals.
Ali Ashraf opened the scores just before halftime, Fred Amaku levelled for the visitors but Denis Omendi scored a late winner to send the home fans into wild celebrations.
“The club is now visible and known across the country, our players, fans and management are so excited, we have expanded on our fan base, several fans are registering every other day, the management feel motivated,” Bagambe commends in the wake of a strong Cup run.
“It’s also an opportunity for other teams at lower level to believe that it is possible.”
Booma FC coach Fred Alinaitwe
On what has made their journey possible, Bagambe says that they have a competitive group of committed players who are proud to put on Booma FC jersey.
“We are having a very committed management that is able to facilitate the team, We are being driven by the desire to promote talent, build a resilient and competitive team that has remained focused even after failing to progress to Big league on two attempts.”
In the next 5 years, Bagambe and his colleagues dream of playing in the Uganda Premier League.
“We dream that one day, our team can play in the Premier League. We also want to be have the biggest fan base among Ugandan community owned clubs, get sponsors and have an academy to nurture talents.”
BOOMA FOOTBALL CLUB PLAYER PROFILE
Moses Odora -29 years -Center Back Former Teams: Kitara FC and Kagadi United FC -Jersey 1
From Apac District
Aldrine Kambale -20 years -Forward Former Teams: Hima FC, Kasese, AS Kasindi Sported, DRC -Bugema University 2019(MVP, 2018) -Jersey 13
From Hima , Kasese District
Emmanuel Ekwong -17 years -Fomer Teams: PCCP FC -Attacking Midfielder -Makerere University -Jersey 6 -From Lira District
Chris Isingoma -17 years -Attacking Midfielder -Jersey 10
From Kiryandongo District
Douglas Kiiza -23 years -Bulemeezzi Ssaza -Left Back -Jersey 3
From Wakiso District
Ashraf Ali -17 years -Attacking Midfielder -Blessed Sacred Kimanya, Masaka, Packwach Eagles and Bululi Ssaza -Jersey 15 -South Sudan National but grown up from Kigumba, Kiryandongo district
Ivan Abi -23 years -Centre Back Former Club: Calvary FC -Jersey 4
From Arua District
Denis Omedi -23 years -Attacking Midfielder Former Teams: Maroons FC, Lira United, Water FC, Sporting United, Amuka Bright Stars FC and FC Leader, DRC -Jersey 11
From Lira District
Swadick Collino -24 years -Defensive Midfielder Former Teams: Onduparaka FC, Kitara FC, Booma Young FC -Jersey 14
From Arua District
Walter Omona -23 years -Forward -Fomer Teams: Kiryandongo United, Bululi Ssaza -Jersey 8
From Kiryandongo District
Richard Ssebayiga -24 years -Attacking Midfielder -Booma Fc Academy -Jersey 16
From Masaka District
Clinton Asiimwe -21years -Forward -Fomer Teams: Kampala University, Kooki Ssaza and Bugerere Ssaza.
5 goals in Uganda cup -Jersey 9
From Masindi District
Latif Biira -22 years -Right Back -Teams: Kampala University and Kooki Ssaza -Jersey 2
From Masindi District
Francis Anguzu -22 years -Goalkeeper Former Teams: Kampala University and Gomba Ssaza -Jersey 18
From Kampala District
Jasper Owobusinge -26 years -Left Back -Booma Fc Academy -Jersey 17
From Masindi District
Hamza Asiimwe Hamza -22 years -Goalkeeper
From Hoima District
Mahad Jjuko -24 years -Right Back -Booma Fc Academy -Jersey
From Masindi District
Patrick Ongeyowun -21 years -Attacking Midfielder
Hoima Young Stars Academy. -Jersey 7
From Hoima District
Leonard Matuwa -20 years -Defensive Midfielder Former Team: Ssaza Buwekula -Jersey 5
From Hoima District
Raymond Kihumuro -18 years -Defensive Midfielder -Booma FC Academy
From Masindi
Booma FC Head Coach Fred Alinaitwe aka Kajambya, has been with the team since it’s birth.
Assistant Coach: Ali Oku, former player of Masindi Town Council and Kinyara FC , commonly known as Tic-tac coach.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal Mbarara City FC Vs Vipers SC Kakyeka Stadium, Mbarara 3pm
Mbarara City will entertain Stanbic Uganda Cup holders and Uganda Premier league champions Vipers in the semifinal first leg at Kakyeka Stadium on Wednesday.
The Mbarara based team has been confirmed relegated form the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and looks at this opportunity as one opportunity of giving back to their heartbroken fans.
Mbarara City head coach Sadick Sempigi says they are well prepared to take on the new Uganda Premier league champions and is optimistic his side can prevail to the final.
Mbarara City FC head coach Saddick Ssempigi.
‘We are much aware of how our opponents are, we have much respect but we have the best strategy to go through that game. We think we shall give the game the right demand and we see ourselves to the final. Our main objective is to play the finals and our players are prepared for the game.’ ‘Our team.has been confirmed relegated from the StarTimes Uganda Premier and this is an opportunity we need to utilise to reinstate trust in our heartbroken fans.’ Said Sempigi
Vipers Tactician Robertinho Oliviera will be aiming to become the first coach to win a double for the Kitende based side.
Robertinho is confident that they will reach their main objective this season.
Vipers SC head coach Roberto Oliviera stressing a point.
“We now have the opportunity to win three titles, the Uganda Cup last year, the Premier league and again retain the Uganda cup. It’s our objective to win trophies but I respect much my colleague, opponent and friend. Mbarara City have a strong team but we have the experience and I trust much my team.,
‘Our objective is to be champions again and also put up nice performances on the pitch.’ Stated Robertinho
The Ankole Lions eliminated Mbale Heroes at the quarterfinal stage thanks to a Henry Kitegenyi strike whereas the Venoms beat Wakiso Giants 3-1 to reach this stage.
Vipers beat Mbarara City home and away in the Uganda Premier league this season.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal Booma FC Vs Bul FC Masindi Municipal Stadium 3pm Live on FUFA Tv, UBC & 102.1 FUFA fm.
Kitara Region third division side Booma FC will be facing off with BUL FC in the first leg of the Stanbic Uganda Cup semifinal at the Masindi Municipal stadium on Tuesday.
The surprise semifinalist are ready to keep the candle burning in their encounter against last season finalists Bul FC.
The head coach Fred Alinaitwe alias Kajambiya is confident that his beleaguered troops will prevail to the final as he addressed the media in a Prematch press conference held at FUFA House, Mengo on Monday morning.
Coach Fred Alinaitwe of Booma FC.
“We are so happy to reach the semifinals for the first time and it’s an achievement for the club.” We respect BUL FC since they are a topflight division side but our journey has not been easy and we have faced a lot of challenges.”
This is also another test for us but we are determined to write more history by reaching the final of the competition.”
“We are an organized team and ready to face any side in the competition.” We are not going to defend, we are to attack and make sure that we score more goals to prevail to the final.” Said a determined Alinaitwe
BUL FC assistant coach Richard Kasule also called upon his players to be cautious with their opponents Booma and remains hopeful of reaching a consecutive final.
BUL FC assistant coach Baker Kasule.
‘This is the second time for us to reach the Semifinal. Last time we advanced up to the final. We are set for the encounter against Booma FC.”
‘Our strategy tomorrow is not to concede away from home and at least score a goal in the encounter and hope to finish the game at home. Football is a game and not a walk over so we have to be very cautious about our opponents.’
‘They have come along way, they have conceded the least goals in the game and it won’t be an easy game but we believe we shall have the last laugh.’ Stated Kasule
BUL FC will be without Aprem Martin and Richard Ayiko through respective Injuries whereas skipper George Kasonko is suspended for the contest.
This is the first time that the regional based side is taking part in the semifinals of the competition whereas BUL were last season’s runners up.
BUL beat nine time competition winners SC Villa 2-1 at the quarterfinal stage whereas Booma eliminated Maroons with the same score to reach the semifinal.
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal draw Mbarara City Vs Vipers Booma FC Vs BUL FC
Current Stanbic Uganda Cup holders Vipers SC have been pitted against Mbarara City FC at the semifinal stage.
The semifinal fixtures were confirmed on Thursday morning as the draw for the last four were conducted at FUFA House, Mengo by FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Professional Leagues Manager, Shawn Mubiru.
FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi (L) and FUFA Professional Leagues Manager, Shawn Mubiru.
The Venoms who are on course to winning their first domestic double will have to negotiate past the Ankole Lions on a home and away basis.
It should be noted that Vipers SC already sealed the League title and are 14 points ahead of second placed KCCA FC with three games to end the season.
To reach this stage, Vipers SC eliminated Wakiso Giants, winning 3-1 at Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium while Mbarara City on the other hand overpowered FUFA Regional League entity Mbale Heroes FC.
The other semifinal clash will be between Booma FC a regional league side from Masindi and BUL FC.
BUL FC will take on Booma FC in the semifinals of this year’s Stanbic Uganda Cup.
Booma FC have punched above weight and will be hoping to extend their fairytale run in the Cup, going all the way to the final.
On the other hand, BUL FC will be hoping to get back to the final for the second successive year. The Jinja based side were thumped 8-1 by Vipers last season.
According to Mubiru, there shall be no extra time if the aggregate score is tied. Therefore, teams will go straight to kicks from the penalty mark.
FUFA Professional Leagues’ Manager, Shawn Mubiru.
“The semifinal games will be played on a home and away basis. In case of a tie after the aggregate score, teams will go straight to spot kicks to determine the winner.” He confirmed.
First leg games will be played between May 10-12 while return leg encounters will be held between May 17-19 2022.
The final will be played on June 11/12 2022 at a venue yet to be confirmed.
All the four teams in the semifinals are guaranteed of a cash prize of UGX 12M with the losing finalist earning UGX 25M while the Winner will bag UGX 50M.
