Category: Women

Phiona Nabbumba played an integral role as She Corporate FC emerged Champions of the FUFA Women Super League. The attacking midfielder scored five goals and registered seven assists.

Her brilliant performance did not go unnoticed and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2021/22 season.

FUFA Media had a one on one chat with Nabbumba who is currently in camp with Crested Cranes at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru to talk about her performance and ambitions.

FUFA Media: First all Congratulations upon winning the League. You must be a proud player at the moment?

Nabbumba: Thank you. Indeed I’m really proud and it is an achievement worth celebrating. Everyone at the club is happy and it was a dream come true for most of us who were winning the League for the first time.

FUFA Media: Take us through the journey of winning the League, how easy or how hard was it for you to clinch the Championship?

Nabbumba: It was a tough campaign considering that we won the League on the last day. But we were braved for this and everyone right showed great character to overcome any challenge that came across. It is that determination that helped us to eventually emerge Champions.

FUFA Media: The final days must have come with immense pressure and tension. What was the feeling in the She Corporate camp. Did you keep believing that you would go ahead to win?

Nabbumba: It was intense (she says with a faint smile). We knew what was at stake and the management worked hard to ease on the pressure. I remember when we lost 5-0 to Lady Doves, our hopes were dampened but they prepared our minds and made sure we kept that mental fortitude to face every situation. In the end we all worked as one unit that explains the belief we had in the final days of the season.

FUFA Media: About the last game of the season, there was a lot of hype and the fans came in big numbers. What went through your mind as players moreso that the game was at home?

Nabbumba: We didn’t allow that pressure to get to our minds. We knew what was at stake and because we were playing at home, that even gave us an added advantage. Additionally, a point was enough for us, meaning they (Kampala Queens) wanted it more.

FUFA Media: Still about that game, there was a goal for Kampala Queens that was cancelled. Do you recall what went through your mind before you confirmed it had been ruled out for offside?

Nabbumba: My eyes first went to the assistant Referee and I saw her flag up already. So when the goal was cancelled, I was not surprised. But in case it counted, I think that would require us to work more and look for the equalizer.

FUFA Media: Finally, the Championship is wrapped but there are individual awards to be given out. Did you see the MVP award coming to you or it was a surprise?

Nabbumba: I will not say it was not a surprise because my performance was evident. I know there were other players that performed well but on an individual level, I was consistent , scoring goals and assisting on many occasions. I dedicate this accolade to my mum who has been part of my career from the start and always encouraged me to carry-on. I can’t forget my teammates because we achieved this collectively.

FUFA Media: You had an incredible run in the League this season, scoring five goals and seven assists. What would you attribute this performance to?

Nabbumba: Hardwork. I think when the club set the target at winning the League this season, we all worked towards that and you can clearly see that everyone on the team improved from the previous seasons. Personally, I trained hard and set my targets in terms of goals and assists. I’m glad that I contributed directly to almost half of the goals w scored.

FUFA Media: Winning the League comes with a ticket to CAF Champions League Qualifiers. How far would you do want she Corporate FC to go?

Nabbumba: Our target is to go there and perform well. If we put in our best then definitely the sky will be limit for us.

FUFA Media: And you are currently part of the National Team, what are you targets as the Crested Cranes prepare for CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship and TotalEnergies Women Africa Cup of Nations?

Nabbumba: First, I’m happy to be part of the set up but I must work hard to impress the coaches. Our target as a team is win the CECAFA Senior Women Championship and then go to AWCON motivated.

FUFA Media: Finally, what aspirations/targets do you have as a player?

Nabbumba: The immediate target is to keep performing well and getting better. In the long run, I dream of playing in the professional ranks.

Crested Cranes forward Juliet Nalukenge has set personal targets as Uganda prepares for two upcoming tournaments.

Uganda will host the 2022 CECAFA Women’s Championship at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru between 1st-11th June and this will act as a precursor for the 2022 Women Africa Cup of Nations slated for 2nd -23rd July in Morocco.

Nalukenge who had a Loan stint at Chrysomolia FC from Apollon Ladies FC in Cyprus indicates she wants to work hard and help the team attain success at the forthcoming Championships.

“I feel happy to be part of the National Team set up and with two tournaments coming up, I can only promise to help the team achieve the set targets.” She said after training with the team on Monday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

The lethal forward believes with hard work, she will be able to make the final squad many goals.

“As a striker my first role is to score and my target if is to score as many goals as possible. I want to help my team win and maybe emerge as a top scorer.” Nalukenge indicated.

Nalukenge also shared her experience of playing abroad and what it means in her career.

“I’m really delighted that in my first season abroad, I was able to play well despite being on loan at Chrysomolia FC. I ended the season as the club top scorer with seven goals and this helped me earn a three-year contract at my parent club Apollon Ladies FC. I believe this will motivate me to even get better next season.”

Uganda is in group A at the CECAFA Women’s Championship alongside Rwanda, Burundi and Djibouti.

The team is currently in camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru under the stewardship of coach George Lutalo.

The Uganda Women Senior National football Team(Crested Cranes) has continued to prepare for the forthcoming CECAFA Women’s Championship that is slated for 1st -11th June 2022 at the FUFA Technical Centre.

After two weeks of residential training at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisasi, the team has now moved to the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru to continue with preparations.

The team comprised of 31 players departed Kisasi for Njeru on Sunday morning with coach George Lutalo indicating this will give them enough time to prepare.

“After two weeks of training in Kampala, we are relocating to Njeru where we can have enough time to train well and better. And with the League coming to an end on Friday, the team will be fully available and thus help in preparing better.” He said.

Uganda is in Group A alongside Rwanda, Burundi and Djibouti.

The tournament will be played at the FUFA Technical Centre, between 1st -11th June 2022.

It should be noted that the aforementioned Championship is part of Crested Cranes preparations for the 2022 Women Africa Cup of Nations that will happen in July. Uganda was placed in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal and Burkina Faso.

Crested Cranes Squad in Njeru
Goalkeepers
Daisy Nakaziro (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Daphine Nyayenga (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Juliet Adeke (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Hadijjah Nalongo (UC
U, Uganda)

Defenders
Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Salena Allibhai (KAA Gent, Belgium), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Viola Namuddu (Makerere University WFC, Uganda), Harima Kanyago (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Margaret Namirimu (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Lukia Namubiru (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Sumaya Komuntale (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda), Miriam Ibunyu (She Corporate FC, Uganda)

Midfielders
Naome Nagadya (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Joan Nabirye (Vihiga Queens, Kenya), Sheebah Zalwango (FC Amani, DR Congo), Shamirah Nalugya ( Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Riticia Nabbosa (Lady Doves FC, Uganda)

Forwards
Elizabeth Nakigozi (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda),Joana Ainembabazi (Rines SS WFC), Juliet Nalukenge (Apollon Ladies FC, Cyprus), Natasha Shirazi (Maccabi Kishronot Hadera, Israel), Zaina Nandede (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Sandra Nabweteme (Unattached), Fazila Ikwaput (Lady Doves, Uganda), Margaret Kunihira (Kampala Queens, Uganda)

She Corporate Football Club are the Champions of the 2021/22 FUFA Women Super League. The Sharks won the title on the final day of the season.

To win the League, the Nakawa based side drew goalless against fellow contenders Kampala Queens FC and thus emerge Champions on goal difference.

She Corporate had a better goal difference of one ahead of Kampala Queens but both teams ended the season on 39 points.

Right from the start of the season, the Sharks showed their intentions and indeed kept the consistence throughout despite Kampala Queens late run.

Their character of resolve was once again on show in the final game where they only needed a draw to seal the elusive Championship.

Phiona Nabbumba and Daphine Nyayenga both from She Corporate FC ended the season ad MVP and best goalkeeper respectively.

Lady Doves striker Fazila Ikwaput finished the season as top scorer with 15 goals.

Rines SS WFC who survived relegation on the final day of the league received the Fair Play award for having registered the least bookings (9 yellow cards).

In the other games played Tooro Queens played out a goalless draw against She Maroons to get relegated while Olila High School WFC and Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC encounter ended in a 1-1 draw.

In Mukono, Hasifah Nassuna bagged a hat trick in UCU Lady Cardinals 4-2 win over Uganda Martyrs WFC.

FUFA Women Super League
Matchday 18
She Corporate FC vs Kampala Queens – MUBS Arena, Nakawa|3PM (Live on FUFA TV)

UCU Lady Cardinals FC vs Uganda Martyrs WFC – Mukono

Olila High School WFC vs Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC -Soroti Stadium

Lady Doves FC vs Rines SS WFC – Katusabe Stadium, Masindi

She Maroons FC vs FC Tooro Queens – Prisons Ground, Luzira.

The 2021/22 FUFA Women Super League season will come to a climax on Friday with five games to be played at various grounds across the country.

Key among them is the fixture involving She Corporate FC and Kampala Queens FC which is a title decider.

The game to be played at MUBS Arena, Nakawa pits the best teams this season and go into the final day of the League level on points(38), only separated by goal difference.

She Corporate, the hosts of Friday’s clash top the log due to a better goal difference of 13 (scored 25 and conceded 12). Their counterparts have scored the same number of goals but shipped in one more.

The game therefore is a make or break for either side as both She Corporate and Kampala Queens look forward to securing their maiden League title.

What each Team needs

She Corporate FC go into Friday’s encounter needing just a point to encrypt their name on the Championship.

The Sharks boost of a good home record, managing to collect 20 points out of the possible 24 this season.

Kampala Queens on the other end find themselves in a must win situation and must defy odds against a side that has only conceded two goals at home the entire season (against Lady Doves FC and Rines SS WFC).

Key Players for either side

Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC)
The midfielder has been consistent throughout the entire season and playing a pivotal role for the Sharks.

5 goals and 7 assists mean she has had direct contribution to half of the team’s goals this season.

Her combination with captain Naome Nagadya and Cissy Nantongo in the middle of the park has been important in the team’s attempt at winning the League.

Margaret Kunihira (Kampala Queens)
Her arrival at club this season has helped to fill the gaping void left by former captain Fauzia Najjemba who has since moved to BIIK Shymkent in Kazakhstan.

She is the club leading top scorer with 6 goals but also has the most assists (7) thus making her a key pillar on the Kampala Queens team.

What the coaches say
Issa Hassan (She Corporate FC)

“The team is prepared and ready for the task ahead of us. The game is opportunity in our pursuit to win the League and we are well aware of what is at stake and we have to do. I believe the players have the mental fortitude to overcome the pressure and be able to play according to the plan set.”

Hamza Lutalo (Kampala Queens FC)
“The game before us means a lot to the team and all we need is to win against She Corporate. It will definitely be a tough task but I have full confidence in my players to go and execute the strategy laid.”

The reverse fixture at IUIU Ground, Kabojja ended in a two-all draw.

In the other games to be played on the final day, UCU Lady Cardinals host third placed Uganda Martyrs in Mukono while Kawempe Muslim make a daunting trip to Soroti to face Olila High School WFC.

At Katusabe Stadium Masindi, Rines SS who are just a point above the red zone need a positive result against Lady Doves to guarantee their safety.

FC Tooro Queens who are second from bottom have a chance to survive relegation but must win against already relegated She Maroons FC and hope Rines don’t defeat Lady Doves FC.

Club Licensing is a tool that aims at delivering professionalism to clubs both in the short and long term. The process looks at improving clubs in different areas such as sporting, governance, Finance, Administration and Legal among others.

FUFA is committed towards improving standards in Women’s competitions with efforts made across several spheres.

It is upon this background that FUFA sought for a FIFA Club Licensing Seminar from the World Football governing body. This was held on Thursday, 19th May 2022 at Imperial Royale Hotel with officials from clubs (FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League) attending.

Andres Portabella, FIFA Advisor to Professional Football and Women’s Football Departments and Bruno Van Hellemont, the FIFA Professionalisation Manager (Women Football Division) were the instructors for the one day workshop.

FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim opened the workshop and gave testimony of how Women’s Football has evolved and where the Federation wants to go.

“I want to say that today’s workshop is like living a dream. In 2013, we made a very unpopular decision of withdrawing our Uganda U20 Women’s National Team from International engagements despite having beaten South Sudan 22-0 on aggregate. But as FUFA, we thought creating a regular league would give more girls chance to play and help us increase the pool. I’m glad that nine years down the road, the Crested Cranes will play at this year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the U20 and U17 Teams have come close in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and women’s football in Uganda has made big strides,” he said.

The President is happy that over the years, Women’s Football continues to grow with increase in the number of girls playing football.

“Currently, Uganda has over 5,000 girls playing football. Our target in 2013 was to increase the number of girls playing football because this eventually creates teams that result into competitions and then form National Teams. We have moved a long journey but our target is even to achieve more in future and this FIFA Club Licensing Seminar is a key pillar in our quest for professionalize Women’s Football.” The President added.

Bruno Van Hellemont, the FIFA Professionalisation Manager (Women Football Division) indicated the Seminar was supposed to come earlier only to be affected by COVID-19.

“I’m privileged to be in Uganda and I bring greetings from FIFA. We are here to preach the gospel of Club Licensing in Women’s Football. This was supposed to happen sometime back but due to COVID-19, we were unable to meet physically. The opportunity is here for us to share with clubs and as well listen to them on how best we can apply the Club Licensing process.” He said.

His colleague, Andres Portabella, FIFA Advisor to Professional Football and Women’s Football Departments revealed that the exercise is open to all the FIFA Member Associations but only FUFA from Africa undertook the process.

“FIFA Club Licensing is open to all the 211 Member Associations and it is currently running across 16 countries. In Africa, it’s only FUFA that asked to this Seminar and this indicates how the Federation is committed towards improving Women’s Football in Uganda.”

David Katende, the National Council of Sports Assistant General Secretary- Technical stressed that football is a dynamic sport and thus clubs ought to embrace Club Licensing which aims at improving standards.

“I’m really happy to be here and this Workshop is important in helping to develop our domestic competitions especially Women’s Football to also get to the professional ranks. Football is a dynamic sport and therefore we must embrace new trends. Therefore, Club Licensing is here to help us develop both on and off the pitch. Said Katende.

FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson while making his presentation highlighted the key aspects that the Club Licensing project looks at and the journey moved so far.

The 5 key areas include;

-Governance
-Sporting
-Finance
-Legal
-Administrative and Personnel

Ali Mwebe, the FUFA Football Development Director revealed that going forward, the federation will extend the FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda to Women’s Football as a way of delivering professionalism.

“Club Licensing should not seem like a burden to clubs. As FUFA we are making several interventions to make sure our clubs attain professionalism. Starting next season, we shall extend the Clubs Pro Agenda exercise to Women’s Football.” He stated.

Richard Kawere, the Chairman She Corporate FC presented on behalf clubs giving a testimony on how far his club has moved.

FIFA promised to make a follow up and constant monitoring of how much the clubs are adhering to the set standards.

The 2021/22 FUFA Women Super League Champion will be determined on the last day of the league following results from the penultimate round.

Both She Corporate FC and Kampala Queens FC who top the log won their respective games on Tuesday to set up a decider.

It should be noted that She Corporate FC will host Kampala Queens on Friday at MUBS Arena, Nakawa.

Kampala Queens fought hard to edge resilient Olila High School at IUIU Ground Kabojja, thanks to Resty Nanziri’s second half goal.

She Corporate on the other hand won with the same scoreline thanks to Whisper Alomo’s goal.

The game played at Buhinga Stadium delayed to start due to a heavy downpour in Fort Portal City.

With both Kampala Queens and She Corporate level on 38 points, Friday’s clash at MUBS Arena, Nakawa will be decider.

She Corporate need just a draw to clinch the title while Kampala Queens must win to emerge Champions.

She Maroons officially got relegated after suffering a 5-1 loss to Uganda Martyrs WFC at St. Gerald’s Stadium, Lubaga.

Latifa Nakasi grabbed a hat trick while Anita Namata and Immaculate Nakanjjako got the other goals for Uganda Martyrs.

The consolation goal for She Maroons came from Anita Babirye. The Prison Sentries have 10 points with one game to play.

Kawempe Muslim defeated Lady Doves 2-0 with goal coming from Esther Nangendo and Hadijah Nandago.

Rines SS moved out of the drop zone after earning a point off UCU Lady Cardinals at home.

Hasifah Nassuna had given UCU Lady Cardinals the lead but Betty Nakubulwa got the equalizer to help Rines move to 14 points, one above FC Tooro Queens.

Matchday 18 Fixtures

Olila High School WFC vs Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC – Soroti Stadium

She Corporate FC vs Kampala Queens FC – MUBS Arena Nakawa

Lady Doves FC vs Rines SS WFC – Katusabe Stadium

UCU Lady Cardinals FC vs Uganda Martyrs WFC – Mukono

FUFA Women Super League
Matchday 17
Uganda Martyrs WFC vs She Maroons FC – St. Gerald’s Stadium, Lubaga

Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs Lady Doves FC – Valley Ground, Kawempe

FC Tooro Queens vs She Corporate FC – Buhinga Stadium, Fort Portal

Rines SS WFC vs UCU Lady Cardinals FC – Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium, Wakiso

Kampala Queens FC vs Olila High School WFC – IUIU, Kabojja

All games kickoff at 4PM

Kampala Queens and She Corporate FC cannot afford any blip at the moment with the FUFA Women Super League title in sight.

Any slip for either side, could definitely mean squandering a chance to clinch the crown and therefore results from the second last Matchday of the League come with far reaching implications.

Kampala Queens host Olila High School this Tuesday in Kabojja while She Corporate have made a long trip to Fort Portal City to face relegation threatened FC Tooro Queens.

Tooro Queens are only above the drop zone due to a better goal difference than Rines SS but both have amassed 13 points each.

Should both teams pick maximum points today, they will go into the last day of the league, level on points. They currently have 35 points apiece.

It should be noted that She Corporate FC will host Kampala Queens in Nakawa on Friday this week.

In the other games on matchday 17, third placed Uganda Martyrs on 31 points host bottom placed She Maroons who still have a chance to beat the drop.

The Prison Sentries have 10 points and must win their remaining two fixtures to at least guarantee their stay.

Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC will host Lady Doves FC while UCU Lady Cardinals visit Rines SS in Wakiso.

FUFA Women Super League

Matchday 16 Results

·         She Maroons FC 0-1 She Corporate FC

·         Lady Doves FC 1-2 Kampala Queens FC

·         UCU Lady Cardinals FC 4-2 Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC

·         Uganda Martyrs WFC 1-0 Rines SS WFC

·         Olila High School WFC 0-0 FC Tooro Queens

The title race in the FUFA Women Super League will go down to the wire with both She Corporate FC and Kampala Queens still in tight contention.

The aforementioned teams won their respective fixtures over the weekend on the road to keep their ambitions afloat.

She Corporate FC who occupy pole position because of a superior goal difference grinded past neighbours She Maroons FC in the Nakawa derby.

In a closely contested encounter played at Prisons Ground, Luzira, Favour Nambatya’s goal at the stroke of halftime eventually turned out to be decisive moment of the game.

Kampala Queens on the other hand were 2-1 winners over Lady Doves FC at Katusabe Stadium in Masindi thanks to goals from Resty Nanziri and Zaina Nandede.

Fazila Ikwaput got the consolation for Lady Doves to take her tally to 14 this season and currently leads the scoring chart.

The two teams will get back to action on Tuesday with She Corporate making a daunting trip to Fort Portal City to face relegation threatened FC Tooro Queens while Kampala Queens will be at home to Olila High School WFC.

In the other results, UCU Lady Cardinals secured a 4-2 win over inconsistent Kawempe Muslim with Hasifa Nassuna netting a brace while Jackie Nakasi and Teddy Najjuma got the other goals for the University side.

Kawempe’s goals came from midfielder Shakira Nyinagahirwa and forward Allen Nassazi.

At St. Gerald’s Stadium in Lubaga, Uganda Martyrs WFC were 1-0 winners over Rines SS WFC with Elizabeth Nakigozi’s first half strike settling the contest.

The fixture between Olila High School and FC Tooro Queens ended in a barren stalemate at Soroti Stadium.

Matchday 17 Fixtures

·         FC Tooro Queens vs She Corporate FC – Buhinga Stadium

·         Kampala Queens vs Olila High School WFC – IUIU Ground, Kabojja

·         Rines SS WFC vs UCU Lady Cardinals FC – Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium, Wakiso

·         Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs Lady Doves – Valley Ground, Kawempe

·         Uganda Martyrs WFC vs She Maroons FC – St. Gerald’s Stadium, Lubaga

·         All games kickoff at 4PM 

Social Media platforms continue to be awash with praise towards Hasifa Nassuna for having reached a century of League goals.

Nassuna got the 100th goal as her side UCU Lady Cardinals FC lost 2-1 to Kampala Queens on Wednesday, 11th May 2022 at IUIU Ground, Kabojja.

Several dignitaries, sports administrators, journalists and fans have come out to congratulate the forward upon attaining the unprecedented feat.

These range from FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Uganda Olympic Committee Chairman, Dr. Donald Rukare to celebrated journalist Usher Komugisha.

Below are some of the messages

Special things happen to special people. For Hasifah Nassuna, everything she touches turns gold and the country continues to enjoy from her craft that never stops giving. It is one one thing to score a goal but another to do so game in game out and year in year out.

Such special players come in handy and Hasifa Nassuna is one of the few that Women’s football in Uganda is lucky to have.

The forward, currently featuring for Uganda Christian University (UCU) Lady Cardinals will have Wednesday, 11th May 2022 as a special day in her football career.

In the game against Kampala Queens played at the IUIU Ground, Kabojja, Nassuna registered her 100th League goal in a space of seven years.

It was a record worth celebrating, no wonder both set of players from UCU Lady Cardinals and Kampala Queens clapped for a minute immediately after she scored. FUFA had already issued a circular to this effect last week indicating such would be accorded whenever the 100th goal comes.

Despite her team losing on the day, Nassuna was happy that the milestone was reached and hopes this can be a stepping stone for more success.

“I’m the happiest person today that finally this record is achieved and i think everyone has been waiting for this. Well, it came with a bit of pressure but I am delighted that it is out of the way now and hoping to even achieve more in future.” She said after the game.

The journey that started on 15th February 2015 at Nabweru Playground as the FUFA Women Elite League was introduced, was worth celebrating and Nassuna indicates it has come with hardships.

“I want to thank Allah for the gift of life and also the talent she gave me. When I look back to the time when the League started, definitely it is a long journey that has come with challenges but I’m glad to be the first person to reach such a milestone.”

Her first goal came against Kakira Women Football Club, then playing at Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, winning that game 7-0.

She would go on to score 14 in the first season where Kawempe Muslim encrypted their name in history books as the first team to win the FUFA Women Elite.They went ahead to win the next three with Nassuna playing a key role before she left for UCU Lady Cardinals in 2017.

Nassuna’s League goals at Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC

2015 -14
2015/2016 -18
2016/17 – 26

In her final season at Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Nassuna set a record for most goals scored in a single season (26) and this stands to-date.

She was able to help UCU Lady Cardinals lift their first silverware in her first season, when they won the FUFA Women’s Cup, defeating She Corporate FC in Kabwohe, Sheema District.

Nassuna went ahead to guide the Mukono based side to success in the League, winning the 2018/19 FUFA Women Elite League title. She ended as both the MVP and top scorer with 18 goals.

Perhaps the milestone could have been achieved earlier but with the outbreak of COVID-19, the 2019/20 season was cancelled when she had only two goals while last season, the League was played in a tournament format.

Even with limited games played because of the shorter format, Nassuna scored three goals in five games as UCU Lady Cardinals FC reached the final but lost to Lady Doves FC.

The current campaign has seen the lethal forward score nine goals, four behind leading top scorer Fazila Ikwaput.

Nassuna at a glance
Full Names: Hasifah Nassuna
Date of Birth: 10th February 1998
Mother’s Name: Annet Nakimbugwe
Father’s Name: Abbas Mukiibi

Schools Attended:
Primary: Sat PLE at Nsumba Primary School in 2010
Secondary: Kawempe Muslim SS (2011-2016)
University: Uganda Christian University (2018 – Present)

League Goals since 2015
2015 – 14
2015/16 – 18
2016/17 – 26
2017/18 – 10
2018/19 – 18
2019/20 – 2
2021 -3
2022 – 9+ (Ongoing)

Individual Honours

League MVP – 2015, 2016 and 2018/19

Top scorer – 2016/17 and 2018/19

Airtel FUFA Female Footballer of the year (2016)

FUFA Women Super League
Matchday 15 Results
Rines SS WFC 1-0 She Maroons FC
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC 1-1 Uganda Martyrs WFC
She Corporate FC 5-0 Olila High School WFC
Kampala Queens FC 2-1 UCU Lady Cardinals FC
Lady Doves FC 4-0 FC Tooro Queens

Kampala Queens had to score a stoppage time winner to see off resilient UCU Lady Cardinals on matchday 15.

The game played on Wednesday at IUIU Ground, Kabojja witnessed history being made as Hasifa Nassuna scored her 100th League goal to give UCU Lady Cardinals the lead.

The goal was treated to a minute of clapping from both sets of players and fans in honour of the landmark goal.

However, UCU Lady Cardinals ended on the losing note as Kampala Queens mounted a comeback to eventually win 2-1.

Shamirah Nalugya levelled matters before the break before Zaina Nandede eventually got the winning goal at the death of the clock.

The result means Kampala Queens move to 32 points, same as leaders She Corporate who registered their biggest win this season by outwitting Olila High School WFC.

In the game played at MUBS Arena, Nakawa, the Sharks put up a brilliant display to secure a 5-0 win thanks to goals from Favour Nambatya (hat trick), Grace Nassongo and Noeline Namiiro.

She Corporate returned to the top of the table with a superior goal ahead of Kampala Queens.

Elsewhere, Fazila Ikwaput was on fire as Lady Doves FC eased past FC Tooro Queens in the Kitara derby played at Katusabe Stadium.

The lethal forward netted a haul (four goals) to take her tally to 13 and thus move top in the scoring chart.

The result means FC Tooro Queens now drop to the relegation with 12 points because Rines SS WFC won the relegation battle against She Maroons thanks to Joan Ainembabazi’s solitary strike.

Rines SS WFC moved out of the drop zone for the first time and now have 13 points from 15 games.

Uganda Martyrs title ambitions suffered a huge blow after picking just a point on the road against Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC.

The Lubaga based outfit had to come from a goal down to salvage a point thanks to a goal from substitute Shamusa Najjuma. The hosts had taken the lead through Hadijah Nandago.

Action will continue over the weekend with matchday 16 games.

Saturday, 14th May 2022

She Maroons FC vs She Corporate FC – Prisons Ground, Luzira

Olila High School WFC vs FC Tooro Queens -Soroti Stadium

Lady Doves FC vs Kampala Queens – Katusabe Stadium, Masindi

Uganda Martyrs WFC vs Rines SS WFC – St. Gerald’s Stadium, Lubaga

UCU Lady Cardinals FC vs Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC

The draw for the upcoming CECAFA Women’s Championship has been successfully held on Wednesday to determine the groups.

In a function conducted via zoom, the 8 teams that confirmed participation have been divided into two groups, each containing four.

CECAFA CEO Auka Gecheo and Competitions Director Yusuf Mossi conducted the draw event.

Hosts Uganda have been placed in group A and will have to compete against Rwanda, Burundi and Djibouti.

The Crested Cranes under the stewardship of coach George Lutalo already entered camp in preparation for this tournament.

Both Uganda and Burundi will use the regional Championship as part of their preparations for the 2022 TotalEnergies Women Africa Cup of Nations in July.

Group B has Tanzania, Zanzibar, South Sudan and Ethiopia.

The tournament is expected to take place between May 22nd – June 5th 2022 at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

This is the second time that Uganda is hosting this Championship, the first coming in 2016.

Groups
Group A
Uganda
Rwanda
Burundi
Djibouti

Group B
Tanzania
Ethiopia
Zanzibar
South Sudan

The preparations of Uganda National Women’s team- Crested Cranes ahead of the 2022 CECAFA Championship in Njeru later this month have taken big steps with two foreign based players joining the camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisasi.

The forthcoming CECAFA Women’s Championship will be held at the FUFA Technical Centre from 22nd May to 5th June 2022.  It will act as a precursor to the TotalEnergies Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco where Uganda will be taking part.

 

Natasha Shirazi a forward at Maccabi Kishronot Hadera in Israel and Salena Allibhai a midfielder with KAA Gent, Belgium are already in camp and raring to go for national team engagements.

The camp opened last Saturday but has been interrupted temporarily by the release of players to rejoin their respective clubs for Wednesday’s league engagements.

‘We have granted players permission to go back to their clubs for league engagements. We expect them back to camp immediately after the matches so that we can regroup to plan technically further. The numbers will improve definitely’ said Head coach George Lutalo.

The team’s training sessions have ranged from indoor drills at the Hotel with gym work, then ball work at Quality Primary School in Kisasi and Omondi Stadium at Lugogo.

Of the 47 players who were summoned in the provisional squad for the tournament, 17 are in camp but there will be a slightly bigger number after today’s league games.

Teenager Salena Allibhai said ‘I am really excited to be back here and I am very grateful for the opportunity to represent Uganda. In me, expect a midfielder who is very calm on the ball, technical and able to solve pressure’ noted the midfielder.

Natasha speaks out

‘I am happy to be back in camp after 6 years and it nice coming back seeing familiar faces like Sandra Nabweteme and Hasifa Nassuna whom I played with in 2016. I am looking forward to meet other players and get to know them on the field. This time round expect an improved and different Natasha ready to fight for her home country’ noted Natasha

Crested Cranes Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers

Ruth Aturo (Katkan Tyovaen Palloillijat, Finland), Gloria Namakula (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda), Daisy Nakaziro (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Daphine Nyayenga (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Vanessa Edith Karungi (Boldklubben AF 1893, Denmark)

Defenders

Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Viola Namuddu (Makerere University WFC, Uganda), Harima Kanyago (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Margaret Namirimu (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Lukia Namubiru (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Yudaya Nakayenze (Lindey Wilson College, USA), Salena Allibhai (KAA Gent, Belgium), Adrine Birungi (Gaspo FC, Kenya), Phoebe Banura (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Madam Christine (Gaspo FC, Kenya), Jolly Kobusinge (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda), Sumaya Komuntale (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda), Miriam Ibunyu (She Corporate FC, Uganda)

Midfielders

Resty Kobusobozi (FC Tooro Queens, Uganda), Rhoda Nanziri (Kawempe Muslim Ladies, Uganda), Naome Nagadya (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Joan Nabirye (Vihiga Queens, Kenya), Sheebah Zalwango (FC Amani, DR Congo), Tracy Jones Akiror (AFC Ann Arbor, USA), Shamirah Nalugya ( Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Riticia Nabbosa (Lady Doves FC, Uganda)

Forwards

Sandra Kisakye (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Elizabeth Nakigozi (Uganda Martyrs WFC, Uganda), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Juliet Nalukenge (Chrysomolia FC, Cyprus), Natasha Shirazi (Maccabi Kishronot Hadera, Israel), Fauzia Najjemba (BIIK Shymkent, Kazakhstan), Viola Nambi (FC Dornbirn Ladies, Austria), Zaina Nandede (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda), Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals FC, Uganda), Rita Kivumbi (Mallbackens IF, Sweden), Sharon Nadunga (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, Uganda), Sandra Nabweteme (Unattached), Favor Nambatya (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Fazila Ikwaput (Lady Doves, Uganda), Susan Atim (She Corporate FC, Uganda), Margaret Kunihira (Kampala Queens, Uganda), Grace Aluka (Olila High School, Uganda), Zaina Namuleme (Kampala Queens FC, Uganda)

FUFA Women Super League
Matchday 15
Wednesday, 11th May 2022

Rines SS vs She Maroons FC – Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium, Wakiso

Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs Uganda Martyrs WFC – Valley Ground, Kawempe

She Corporate FC vs Olila High School WFC – MUBS Arena, Nakawa

Lady Doves vs FC Tooro Queens – Katusabe Stadium, Masindi

Kampala Queens vs UCU Lady Cardinals FC – IUIU Ground, Kabojja

All games kickoff at 4PM

Matchday 15 of the FUFA Women Super League comes with different ambitions for all the ten teams. Whereas a few are contending for the title, more than half are engulfed in the battle to fend off relegation.

As action continues on Wednesday with five games spread across the country, the outcome from each of the game could have far reaching implications on either side of the table.

Table leaders Kampala Queens will seek to extend their brilliant run and maintain grip on pole position with victory over visiting UCU Lady Cardinals.

With four games to the climax of the season, any blip for Kampala Queens could dent their title hopes and therefore have to treat Wednesday’s clash with utmost importance.

They face a UCU Lady Cardinals outfit that has blown hot and cold the entire season and sit fourth on the table, eight points behind the leaders.

A loss against Kampala Queens will all but erase their hopes of clinching this season’s title if any.

However, their captain Hasifah Nassuna has more to fight for given that she is one goal shy of a century in the domestic League.

Kampala Queens won the reverse fixture 2-1 in Mukono.

She Corporate who are also on 29 points returned to winning ways over the weekend, defeating UCU Lady Cardinals 1-0 in Nakawa.

The result not only helped them to remain in the title race but also brought back the confidence of the players after a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Lady Doves a week ago.

The Sharks will definitely be aiming to garner maximum points off Olila High School on Wednesday to keep their title charge alive.

Uganda Martyrs WFC who are third on 27 points make a trip across the city to Kawempe and hoping that maximum points off their nemesis will keep them within breathing space of the leading pack.

A 2-1 win away to FC Tooro Queens over the weekend helped Uganda Martyrs WFC to bounce back from two successive draws.

It should be noted that the Lubaga based school won the reverse fixture 3-1 and will be aiming for a first double over Kawempe.

Elsewhere, bottom placed Rines SS face She Maroons who are second from bottom. The two have the same number of points (10) and victory for either could be a big boost in fending off the relegation monster.

Another relegation contest will be the Kitara region derby between Lady Doves and FC Tooro Queens at Katusabe Stadium in Masindi.

Tooro Queens are only two points above the drop zone and meet a rejuvenated Lady Doves side that routed She Corporate 5-0 in their last home game.

Lady Doves are equally not safe with 14 points in as many games and they will need maximum points off visiting Tooro Queens to move far from the red zone.

A total of 12 teams have been confirmed for the 2022 FUFA Corporate Tournament that will take place on Sunday, 8th May at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

Running for the sixth time and returning for the first time since 2019, the annual event will have a theme, “activating the annual corporate outreach,” tagged to it.

The draws for Sunday’s event were conducted today at FUFA House with Acting FUFA Marketing Director, Saddam Bulega orchestrating the process while James Obua from National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) and Ronald Kasanya from Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) representing the participating teams.

Bulega indicated it is exciting to have the tournament back after a two year hiatus and believes this year’s edition comes bigger and better.

“As FUFA, we are pleased to have this tournament back. It was unfortunate not to host it in the last two years due to COVID-19 but here we are and the Corporate Companies have responded well even on short notice.” He said.

Obua who represented two time winners(2015 and 2016) National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) stated that they are back for the title.

“We are back to extend our dominance in this tournament. Our team is ready and we have been training to get fit. Therefore, the other teams should come prepared to face us.” He stated.

Kasanya from Diamond Trust Bank also stated with oozing confidence that their team is ready to compete.

“In the last edition, we came third. I want to confirm that we return this time as title contenders and ready to win.”

The 12 teams have been placed in 3 groups of 4 with the top two qualifying for the Quarterfinals automatically and will be joined by two best third-placed teams.

Bulega, indicated that each team will be guaranteed of 5 games with classification games arranged even after the group stage.

Groups

Group A
UMEME Limited
Nivana Water
Uganda Premier League Secretariat
FUFA XI

Group B
Ecobank
Diamond Trust Bank (DTB)
FUFA Media Services (FMS)
National Water Sewerage Corporation (NWSC)

Group C
Bidco Uganda Limited (BUL)
Stanbic Bank Uganda
National Population Council (NPC)
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCCA)

FUFA Women Super League
Matchday 14
Saturday, 7th May 2022
Kampala Queens vs Rines SS WFC – IUIU Grounds, Kabojja| 3PM

Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs She Maroons FC – Valley Ground, Kawempe|3PM

FC Tooro Queens vs Uganda Martyrs WFC – Buhinga Stadium, Fort Portal| 3PM

Sunday, 8th May 2022
Olila High School WFC vs Lady Doves FC – Soroti Stadium|3PM

She Corporate FC vs UCU Lady Cardinals FC- MUBS Arena, Nakawa|3PM

She Corporate FC will aim for a quick recovery as the 2021/22 FUFA Women Super League season enters the business end.

With 13 matchdays covered already, the current season that has 10 teams suggests that each team has to play a total of 18 games.

The Sharks suffered a humiliating defeat in midweek, falling 5-0 to Lady Doves in Masindi in what was their first loss of the campaign.

The heavy loss meant She Corporate surrendered the league summit for the first time with Kampala Queens who drew 2-2 at Uganda Martyrs going up on goal difference.

The target for the Nakawa based side therefore this weekend will be to bounce back to winning ways and keep the title ambitions afloat.

They face a UCU Lady Cardinals side that has blown hot and cold the entire season but were able to win their last game, 3-1 at home against FC Tooro Queens.

With Uganda Martyrs WFC and Kampala Queens playing a day earlier against FC Tooro Queens and Rines SS WFC respectively, She Corporate may find themselves third on the log.

Kampala Queens who are unbeaten in the last 12 games will hope to seize the opportunity and open up the gap at the top as they face bottom placed Rines.

Hamza Lutalo’s charges won the reverse fixture 3-0 at Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium with Margaret Kunihira scoring a brace while the other was an own goal by defender Diana Nantongo.

Uganda Martyrs have drawn the last two games at home and the target as they make the trip to Fort Portal is to secure maximum points off Tooro Queens.

The School side welcome back winger Brenda Munyana from suspension and will be expected to bolster their attacking options.

Kawempe Muslim have had a terrible season, already losing 7 games but they will hope to win at home against relegation candidates She Maroons.

Rejuvenated Lady Doves will hope to keep the same momentum on their visit to Soroti against stubborn Olila High School WFC.