CAF Africa Women’s Tournament Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games
Preliminary Round, ReturnLeg
Saturday 6th April 2019
StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo at 4pm
Fees: 5,000/=(Ordinary), 10,000/= (VIP) and 20,000/=(VVIP)
Uganda vs Ethiopia (Ethiopia leads 2-3 agg)
Uganda National Women football team-Crested Cranes conducted their last training session on Friday evening at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Crested Cranes during training at Lugogo on Friday
The one and a half hour session mainly focused on team work, attack and transition under the watchful eye of head tactician Faridah Bulega, her assistant Edward Kaziba, Goalkeeping coach James Magala and physical fitness trainer Oliver Mbekeka.
Head coach Faridah Bulega showing the players some skills during training
The session was also watched by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (3rd L) and other FUFA staff at Lugogo watching Crested Cranes final training session.
After the session, Bulega assured Ugandans that she has prepared her team in the best way and ready for the encounter.
We are in good shape and ready for the game. The team has had a good recovery process since returning from Ethiopia. Our target is to win and qualify for the next level. We are at home and we must play to home advantage’ said Bulega.
Team Captain Tracy Jones Akiror is optimistic that the Crested Cranes have the ability to overturn the 3-2 defeat by Ethiopia.
We did not get the result we wanted but I’m happy that we got those two goals. I believe we have the ability to score not just one but many here’ said Tracy
CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympic Games Tokyo 2020
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia (Agg. 2:3)
StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Charges for Saturday 6th April 2019: Ordinary: 5,000/-, VIP 10,000/- VVIP 20,000/-
The National women football team, Crested Cranes today conducted a light training at the Prisons stadium in Luzira, Kampala.
The team returned in the early hours of Thursday morning from Addis Ababa, where they played but 3-2 to Ethiopia in the first leg of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games qualifier on Wednesday.
Head Coach Faridah Buega and her assistants talk to the players at Prisons ground in Luzira
On return, the team was ushered in at Sky Hotel in Naalya where they will stay till match day on Saturday at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Today, the players were taken through light drills but were interupted by a heavy downpour just like the case when they conducted their final training in Addis Ababa on Tuesday.
‘We are happy with the spirit with in camp but teh two goal are kepeingthe fire burning. I am hopeful we shall take on the advantage of the two away goals to overturn the result and qualify to the next round’ said Head Coach Faridah Bulega.
L-R Edward Kaziba-Assistant Coach, Olive Mbekeka-Trainer, Faridah Bulega-Head Coach, James Magala-Goalkeeping coach in a deep discussion
Uganda needs only 1-0 win on Saturday to qualify to the next round, where giants Cameroon stand in the way of whoever goes through.
Sandra Nabweteme leads the players into a stretching exercise (3)
The Crested Cranes team
Goal keepers:Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Defenders-Shadia Nankya (Uganda Martyrs), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens), Vola Namuddu (Makerere), Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Marion Amangat (Olila High School)
Midfeilders-Phionah Nabbumba (Ajax Queens), Tracy Jones Akiror (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Shamilah Nalujja (Isra Academy), Fausia Najjemba (Isra Academy), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens), Ritah Nabbosa (Lady Doves).
Strikers-Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim SS Ladies FC), Hasifa Nassuna (UCU Lady Cardinals), Zainah Namuleme (Kampala Queens), Resty Nanziri (Kampala Queens), Sandra Nabweteme (Southwestern Oklahoma State University, USA) and Fazila Ikwaput (BIIK Kazygurt, Kazakhstan)
CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020
1st leg Ethiopia 3-2 Uganda
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Charges for Saturday 6th April 2019: Ordinary: 5,000/-, VIP 10,000/- VVIP 20,000/-
Uganda National women football team- Crested Cranes will be grateful to the two goals sored away in Addis Ababa against Ethiopia in the CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 1st leg fixture.
Ethiopia won the match 3-2.
The home side took an early lead following an own goal by Aisha Namukisa. As the first half was coming to a close, Uganda was handed a lifeline to level matters but Sandra Nabweteme’s well taken penalty kick hit the woodwork.
On resumption Loza Abera doubled for the home side in the 78th minute before Serkaddis Guta made it two minutes later.
The Crested Cranes never gave up as they kept looking for an away goal and their efforts paid off with two late strikes to carry back home for the return leg on Saturday at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Ugandan fans in Ethiopa cheering the Crested Cranes
They forced an error that led to Tarikuwa Debiso putting the ball in her own net under pressure while substitute Hasifah Nassuna got the other.
Crested Cranes will fly back from Ethiopia and arrive at Entebbe Airport at 1am. Ethiopia will jet in tomorrow afternoon.
Crested Cranes Head coach Faridah Bulega during the post match press conference in Ethiopia
1st leg Ethiopia Vs Uganda on Wednesday April 3 in Addis Ababa
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm at 4pm.
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega has named the starting team to face Ethiopia at the National Stadium, Addis Ababa on Wednesday evening. The match will be broadcast live on 102.1 FUFA fm starting 4pm.
Ruth Aturo has retained her position between sticks and will lead the team as regular skipper Tracy Jones Akiror starts from the bench.
The front three will have two foreign based stars Sandra Nabweteme, Shamirah Nalujja and stylish Zaina Namuleme.
Utility player Yudaya Nakayenze will play in the midfield together with Lilian Mutuuzo and Phiona Nabbumba.
The defensive duties will be controlled by Shadia Nankya, Aisha Namukisa, Viola Namuddu and Grace Aluka.
1st leg Ethiopia vs Uganda on Wednesday, April 3 in Addis Ababa
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia on Saturday 6th April 2019 at StarTimes Stadium
Live on 102.1 FUFA fm at 4pm
Crested Cranes lead striker Sandra Nabweteme is optimistic that they will pick up a decent result in Addis Ababa to carry back home for the return leg. Uganda and Ethiopia clash in the 1st leg of the CAF Africa Qualifiers- Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 on Wednesday.
Nabweteme joined the Crested Cranes on Tuesday evening after she had a scheduled interview with the US Embassy in Kampala.
Sandra Nabweteme during training in Njeru
‘I feel happy to join the team. We want to get a very good result here to take back home for the return leg. The players in camp are confident and ready to deliver come today. We shall work as a team and take responsibility of representing our country at all times’ said Nabtweme who plies her trade in the US with Southwestern Oklahoma State University, USA where she is a student.
Tuesday’s training session at the National Stadium in Addis Ababa was interrupted by heavy rains but head coach Faridah Bulega and her technical team took time to address the players on sevral key areas in preparation for the game.
Crested Cranes players warming up at the National stadium in Addis Ababa before the skies went loose with heavy rains
‘Apart from the rains that disorganised our training plans, the rest is very fine. We have had goof preparations for the fixture. I have a lot of trust in this team. We want to make this chance count a lot towards development of football in Uganda’ noted Bulega.
Team talk after heavy downpour disrupted the Crested Cranes training on TuesdayCrested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega in Ethiopia chacking on her watch before disrupted the training session on Tuesday
Crested Cranes Contingent in Ethiopia
Team Officials-
Leader of Delegation Agnes Mugena
Faridah Bulega-Head Coach
Edward Kaziba-Assistant Coach
James Magala-Goalkeeping coach
Olive Mbekeka-Trainer
Mable Kabatalindwa-Team Doctor
Paul Ssali-Team Coordinator
Team Media Officer-Muzamiru Mayiga
Prossy Nalwadda-Kits Officer
Ismail Kalanda Buyego –FUFA Delegate (Buganda region FA)
Shafik Mutebi- 102.1 FUFA fm
Harriet Nakimbuggwe- FUFA Secretariat Staff
Players
Goalkeepers: Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Defenders-Shadia Nankya (Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens), Viola Namuddu (Makerere-She MAK), Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslem SS Ladies FC), Marion Amangat (Olila High School)
Position: Defender but occassionaly deployed in attack (has 8 goals in the FUFA Women Elite League, Leading scorer with 7 goals in the FUFA Women’s Cup this season).
Nominee Airtel FUFA Women player of the year 2018
Winner-Two COSAFA Player of the match awards during the 2018 tournament in South Africa.
Shadia Nankya is Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga and Crested Cranes central defender, who only started playing soccer five years ago.
As a young girl in S.2 at Uganda Martyrs Lubaga in 2014, Nankya did not know exactly what she was doing, but only started getting excited to join boys to play the ball, but not on a serious note.
What started as a joke and a leisure activity for Nankya, has now paved way to stardom in women football, something she had never dreamt about.
Born 18 years ago to Kasimu Kizito and Rehema Nampijja of Kasangati in Wakiso district, Nankya is the last born in the family of five (one boy and four girls).
She is currently on the Crested Cranes team trying to qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games starting with a two-legged qualifier against Ethiopia.
Shadia Nankya is one of the finest female defenders in Ugandan football.
When did you start playing football? It is not far, I started playing the ball in 2014 when I was in S.2.
How did you get interested?: I had no interest in playing, because I didn’t even know there were girls that played football. Only, I would join boys both at home and at school, to play for leisure.
What was your parents’ reaction towards this? My mother did not like it at all; she used to discourage me. She never wanted me to play football, but I persisted outside her knowledge.
Crested Cranes defender Nankya Shadia (Red) takes on a player from Kampala Select team player Halima Katusabe at Kabojja IUIU Campus during a build up match for the National Team in March 2018
Did she react after finding out you kept playing secretly? The good thing my school (Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga) took me on a study bursary because I had the basics of the game. So when she learnt I had secured a bursary, she started feeling fine with my career. She is among the happiest people now.
Who has inspired you to keep on playing football? My siblings especially-my brother Shafiq Mubiru has been behind me and supports me so much. My coaches too have encouraged me both at club and National team.
What has been your lowest moment in football? Not really, but my first experience in the Elite Women’s League was a teaser. We were playing against relegation.
What is your highest moment in football? We have consecutively won the Lammenies’ football tournament, but again, having been summoned to play for the national team and of all, my double Player-of-The-Match accolade during the 2018 COSAFA event in S. Africa remains the greatest memory.
Nakya Shadia recieves the Player of the Match accolade from Timothy Shongwe-Chairman Competitions COSAFA.
How did you feel when you were called up to the National team? To be honest, my first time I felt scared but I only shared the scare with myself, I did not want to tell anyone. Because I was imagining how I would carry the whole nation on my shoulders, everyone was to see me, but I kept strong and we had a good game against Kenya in Machakos though we lost (1-0) and later held them to a 0-0 here in Kampala.
You one time played as a striker and scored many goals in a single game: Yes, after realizing my potential as a footballer, I have tried out several positions because I have kept having a growing ambition and determination. I can play anywhere but I love the central defence.
Check the height. Who can jump higher than me? Shadia Nankya goes for the ball in the air.
Talk about the CECAFA and COSAFA experience: It was all team work and determination that we performed the way we did in both tournaments. We were just unlucky that we lost the CECAFA title to Tanzania just on goal difference. We were underdogs but we surprised and challenged our critics.
For COSAFA still, we were guests and the smallest team in the event on record, but we still rose up to the occasion and were counted among the best teams. Finishing third and beating good teams like Zimbabwe and Zambia was encouraging.
Shadia Nankya (3rd L) taking on a Zambian player during the 2018 COSAFA Tournament in South Africa. She always keeps it tight in the backline for club and country.
You were voted MVP twice in the 2018 COSAFA: Yes, but the team work and the hard work led me to the accolades. I won’t take them as an individual achievement but for the whole team because we worked hard together.
What are your future plans? Playing for the national team for a long time is my major target because I want to keep representing my country. But I want also to focus on becoming a professional player.
Shadia Nankya celebrating with Yudaya Nakayenze while on National team duty after scoring against Tanzania in the 2018 CECAFA Women championship
Any attributes? Yes, I want to thank FUFA for having enabled girls to play football, opening up our career doors in the sport. They have involved us in every international event now. The AWCON qualifiers, the CECAFA and COSAFA outings last year then the Olympic qualifiers that we are involved in. This international involvement is going to improve our game, expose us to the world and keep us in love with the game and also encourage women football development in the country.
I also thank our parents for having enabled and allowed us to play soccer. The coaches, fans, teammates and everyone.
Shadia Nankya (3rd L) leaves her opponents fully beaten as she drives the ball away when Crested Cranes faced Kampala Regional side at Lugogo.
Who do you admire as a player? Locally I admire myself but for a male player I admire Hassan Waswa (Cranes central defender) because of what he does and how he makes everything appear easy. He was not originally a central defender but brought into the position which he has perfected well.
Internationally, I admire the S. African senior defender Janine Van Wyk because of her determination and hard work.
Any message to the young girl-footballers? Let them work hard and be focused. They should keep good discipline and respect their coaches and parents as well as committing their lives to prayer. They will realize their goals.
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes star player ShadiaNankya
1st leg Ethiopia vs Uganda on Wednesday, April 3 in Addis Ababa
2nd leg Uganda vs Ethiopia on Saturday 6th April 2019 at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega, has released her final list of 20 players that will travel to Ethiopia for the CAF Africa Qualifiers Women’s Tournament Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 first leg encounter with Ethiopia on Wednesday, April 3 in Addis Ababa.
The 20 players were named from the initial squad of 20 players that have been in residential camp at the FUFA Technical Center Njeru since Friday, March 22.
Crested Cranes assistant coach Edward Kaziba and trainer Olive Mbekeka talk to the players shortly after the last training session at Njeru on Monday morning
The team had their last two training sessions on Monday early morning and Mid-morning before Bulega announced the final squad.
‘All my players are good in camp and have been working hard. I am sure the 20 I have selected will do what is expected of them in Addis Ababa’ said Bulega.
Apart from the foreign-based trio defender Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), strikers Sandra Nabweteme (Southwestern Oklahoma State University, USA) and Fazila Ikwaput (BIIK Kazygurt, Kazakhstan), the rest of Bulega’s selections are familiar faces, with only left fullback Marion Amangat and impressive winger Fauziah Najjemba relishing an opportunity to make their international debut.
The impressive Marion Amangat (L) has been included on the team to Ethiopia
Bulega has chosen to stick to the first choice custodian and reigning Airtel/FUFA Footballer of the year Ruth Aturo, and Daisy Nakaziro
Towering central defender Shadia Nankya retains her position, together with Aisha Namukisa, Nakayenze, Grace Aluka and Viola Namuddu while Amangat makes her first call up for international engagement.
The team has six midfielders, six strikers, as Bulega aims at helping the Crested Cranes qualify for Olympic games for the first time.
The team of 20 players and 8 technical staff members in addition to federation officials, is expected to set off at Entebbe International airport at 2:00am (early Tuesday morning), ahead of the Wednesday clash in Addis before the return leg in Kampala on Saturday 6, and the winner from the two legs will qualify to meet Cameroon for the slot to Tokyo.
Sandra Nabatweme(L) and Yudaya Nayaenze (R) facing camera are in the squad
Crested Cranes final 20 named for the trip to Ethiopia team
Goalkeepers: Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals), Daisy Nakaziro (Lady Doves)
Defenders-Shadia Nankya (Uganda Martyrs High School Rubaga), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens), Viola Namuddu (Makerere-She MAK), Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole State College, USA), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslem SS Ladies FC), Marion Amangat (Olila High School)
The National women football team-Crested Cranes, embarked on serious training on the very first day on Saturday morning, after entering residential camp on Friday evening at FUFA Technical centre, Njeru.
A team of 30 players was summoned and is being handled by head coach Faridah Bulega, assisted by Edward Kaziba (Assistant Coach), James Magara (Goalkeeping coach) and Olive Mbekeka (Trainer) but 3 of the 30 are yet to report to camp from their respective clubs abroad.
Goalie Aturo Ruth perfects her skills during training
Striker Sandra Nabweteme who features for South West Oklahoma University, defender Yudaya Nakayenze of Seminole Women Soccer team all in the USA and striker Fazila Ikwaput who plays for BIIK Kazygurt in Kazakhstan will join the camp later.
Crested Cranes is in preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics games qualifier first leg tie against Ethiopia away in Addis Ababa on April 3, before the return leg three days later in Kampala.
‘We have started on a slow note because it has been a while since we came together, but by the end of the seven days that we have here, the players will have picked up the needed grades’ said Bulega said.
L-R Olive Mbekeka-Trainer, Faridah Bulega-Head Coach, and Edward Kaziba-Assistant Coach
Bulega, however, expressed the challenge of the weather conditions, with increasing heat due to the scorching sun in the area.
Team captain Tracy Jones Akiror said they are ready for the challenge ahead given the fact that they are being handled well by the coaches, not the matter of the hot weather withstanding.
‘We have started well and although we have not been together for a while, we hope to respond well to the guidelines given to us by our coaches and the hot weather here prepares us for the same in Ethiopia’ noted Akiror.
Tracy Jones Akiror in control of the ball during training
Prolific striker Sandra Nabweteme will re-unite with her Crested Cranes teammates to don the national team colours for the first time in four years, after she was summoned to the team ahead of the 2020 Olympic qualifier first leg match away against Ethiopia on April 3. The team entered camp on Friday 22nd March 2019 evening at the FUFA TechncailCentre, Njeru.
The former Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC s net buster who plays her club football with South West Oklahoma University in the USA, was summoned alongside defender Yudaya Nakayenze (Siminole Women Soccer team, USA) and striker Fazila Ikwaput (BIIK Kazygurt, Kazakhstan) as head Coach Faridah Bulega aims at taking her team to their first Olympic Games finals due in Tokyo, Japan next year.
Bulega has still entrusted her players in the likes of Hasifa Nassuna, Tracy Jones Akiror, reigning Airtel FUFA Player of the year Ruth Aturo, Shadia Nankya, Lilian Mutuuzo and Zaina Namuleme among others, whose performances last year saw the team finish second on goal difference to eventual champions Tanzania in the CECAFA women challenge cup and then third in the invitational COSAFA tournament in South Africa.
Three new faces including UCU defender Phoebe Banura and She Corporates counterpart Wilmer Nantumbwe alongside Olila midfielder Susan Atim make their first ever call ups to the team.
A total of 30 players were named as they entered residential training at FUFA Technical Center Njeru in Buikwe and it’s from this Squad of 30players that Bulega will be tasked to name a final list of 20 to travel to Ethiopia.
The Crested Cranes’ final team is expected to depart for Addis Ababa on April 1 ahead of the first leg encounter on April 3 before the second leg meeting on April 6 at Star Times Lugogo Stadium.
The winner from the two legs will meet fancied Cameroon in yet another double legged meeting to battle for the slot to the Tokyo games.
Skipper Tracy Jones Akiror (R) in action for Crested Cranes vs Kampala Region Select team
Dates for Tokyo 2020 Olympics Women Football African Zone preliminary qualifier match between the Crested Cranes and Ethiopia have been confirmed.
According to the fixtures released from the Head-Qualifier and International match official for world football governing body FIFA Gordon Savic, the first leg will be played in Ethiopia in Addis Ababa National Stadium on 3rd April 2019 at 16:00hrs.
Match officials from Egypt will handle the 1st Leg and are; Saad Ali Shahenda will be in the center assisted by Hassan Hanady and Ahmed Shibl as the 1st and 2nd assistants respectively.
Crested Cranes Captain Tracy Jones Akiror (M) launching an attack in the game against Ethiopia during the 2018 CECAFA Women Challange Cup in Rwanda.
The 2nd leg is set to take place in Kampala on 6th April 2019 at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo and officials for the return match have bene named. They are;
Umutoni Aline from Rwanda will be the center referee. Murangwa Sandrine and Umutesi Alice will be the assistants.
This is the first Olympics qualifier engagement for the Crested Cranes in the history of Uganda Women Football.
Crested Cranes defeated Ethiopia 2-1 in their last meeting during the 2018 CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Kigali, Rwanda.
MAIN PHOTO:Crested Cranes Team that won Ethiopia in 2018 CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Rwanda
The Uganda Crested Cranes overcame Kampala region select 2-1 in the first ever regional tour match for the ladies at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo on Saturday, 16 March 2019.
A goal in each half Anita Namata and Resty Nanziri inspired Faridha Bulega’s coached side to victory under very hot conditions.
Sophia Nakiyingi got the consolation for a resilient Kampala side via a well taken kick from the penalty mark.
Namata gave the national side the lead on 27 minutes.
The lead lasted only 13 minutes before Sophia Nakiyingi’s equalizer off a well taken kick from the penalty mark.
Nanziri, one of the 10 second half substitutes for the national side struck home a beautiful long range shot off an acute angle on the left.
The winning goal had arrived moments after Zaina Namuleme’s weak penalty effort was saved by goalkeeper Esther Akujo.
Earlier, Hasifa Nassuna had missed target inside opening minute from kick off.
Crested Cranes left back, Margret Birabwa tested Kampala region goalkeeper Esther Akujo with a weak shot from 20 yards on five minutes.
Kampala region’s first threat towards goal arrived after 6 minutes when Sumaya Kyomhendo’s weak effort from over 30 yards was a routine collection for Ruth Aturo in Crested Cranes goal.
The battle for the ball during the opening half of the game at Lugogo
On the quarter hour mark, Juliet Nalukenge headed over with a diving effort before Monica Namwase missed from long range.
The long awaited break through arrived three minutes from the half hour mark when Namata rounded the advancing goalie before tapping the ball in empty net for the opener.
Water break for both teams
On 30 minutes, there was a water break breather to allow the players cool off the scorching sun.
Moments after the break, Kampala select’s Shakira Nyinagahirwe registered an attempt off target.
The equalizer came five minutes to the end of the opening stanza.
Nakiyingi scored from the penalty spot following a foul in the forbidden area on Nyinagahirwe.
Upon restart, the Crested Cranes made nine changes.
Four minutes into the half, Fauzia Najjemba hit the cross bar with a long range effort
There were then changes for Kampala when goal scorer Sophia Nakiyingi, Sumaya Kyomuhendo and Regina Nantege were all rested for Rebecca Nakato, Allen Nassozi and Naiga Mayimuna respectively.
Najjemba hit the cross bar with a header off Lillian Mutuuzo’s cross from the right.
On 69 minutes, Zaina Namuleme missed her penalty that was awarded following a foul on Mutuuzo.
Anita Namata breaks away from the opponent
Latifa Nakasi replaced Hadijja Nandago in Kampala Region’s other change before Crested Cranes’ Aisha Namukisa paved way for Damali Matama.
Nanziri struck the match winner via decent shot off an acute angle on the left wing, 20 yards from goal.
With 15 minutes to play Allen Nassozi was replaced by Sandra Nakamya as the Kampala Select pushed numbers upfront for the equalizer that never arrived.
This was the first regional tour game organized for the female players intended to take the national team (Crested Cranes) closer to the populous.
Airtel Uganda in conjunction with Nile Breweries Limited sponsors the regional tours organized by Kibo Media Limited.
The Crested Cranes began preparations on Thursday afternoon ahead of their first ever regional tour.
The team will play against Kampala region on Saturday, 16th March 2019.
Faridah Bulega, the head coach took players through drills at Maroons stadium, Luzira on the first day of training.
Of the 23 players summoned last week, 21 turned up for training. Lilian Mutuuzo and Resty Nanziri were not available but the coach confirmed they will join the rest of the team in the Friday session.
Brief notes from the head coach Faridah Bulega to her players before training
The squad comprises of four goalkeepers, six defenders, eight midfielders and five strikers.
The coach was impressed with the fitness levels of the players and believes the game on Saturday will be a good precursor ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games qualifier against Ethiopia next month.
Hasifah Nassuna (3) flying with confidence during training in Luzira.
‘The girls are in good shape and the commitment from everyone on day one was positive. I believe the game against Kampala region on Saturday will be a good build up ahead of the game against Ethiopia next month’ said Bulega
The team will have a similar training session on Friday before the game on Saturday at 2pm.
Shadia Nankya (L) will carry her rich club form to the National team. She os being challenged to the ball by another stylish player Zainah Namuleme
Players that trained on Thursday
Goalkeepers: Ruth Aturo(UCU Lady Cardinals), Vanessa Edith Karungi (She Corporate), Juliet Adeke(Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Daizy Nakaziro(Lady Doves)
Defenders: Shadia Nankya(Uganda Martys High School Lubaga), Aisha Namukisa(Kampala Queens), Wilmer Nantumbwe(She Corporate), Margaret Birabwa( Muteesa I Royal University), Phoebe Banura ( UCU Lady Cardinals), Viola Namuddu( Makerere University)
Midfileders: Damalie Matama(Kampala Queens), Phiona Nabbumba ( Ajax Queens, Bulenga), Fauziah Najjemba( Isra Soccer Academy), Tracy Jones Akiror( Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Teddy Najjuma (UCU Lady Cardinals), Anita Namata (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Shamira Nalujja( Isra Soccer Academy)
Forwards: Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Monica Namwase (Kampala Queens), Zaina Namuleme (Kampala Queens), Hasifa Nassuna(UCU Lady Cardinals)
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes Captain Tracy Jones Akiror leads by example with the rest of the players during the drills
Kampala Region Select Women Team- Head coach Ayub Khalifah has named 25 players to face the Uganda National Women-Crested Cranes in the Regional Tour Match at the StarTimes Stadium on Saturday 16th March 2019 at 2pm. The match will be played before the men’s senior team “The Uganda Cranes who face off with Kampala Region Select Men’s Team at 4:30pm. The organisers will not charge any fees for the entrance.
Kawempe Muslim Junior Team players dominate the list with 9 players, Maroons with 5, Uganda Martyrs with 4, Trinity College Nabingo with 3. Katuuso and Highland are represented with 2 players each.
On the technical side, Nankya Immaculate will assist Ayub Khalifah.
Kampala Region Women Select quad:
Nakwanga Elizabeth (GK) (Katuuso) and Namuli Justine (GK) (Katuuso)
Others;
Akujo Esther (Maroons), Naiga Mayi (Maroons), Abba Immaculate (Maroons), Nakiyingi Sofi (Maroons), Nalubwama Shanita (Maroons).Nantege Regina (Highland), Nassozi Allen (Highland), Nalule Joseph (Martyrs), Kanyago Halima (Martyrs), Basemera Uditar (Martyrs), Nakasi Latifah (Martyrs), Nyinagahira Shakirah (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nakato Rebecca (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nandago Hadija (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nakamya Sandra (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nassali Olivia (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Mushimire Ritah (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Kasana Brenda (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Kyomuhendo Sumayiyah (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nalubega Monica (Kawempe Muslim Junior), Nvanugi Lilian (Trinity College Nabbingo), Babirye Agatha (Trinity College Nabbingo), and Nakazibwe Jovia (Trinity College Nabbingo).
MAIN PHOTO:Crested Cranes Team to face Kampala Region Select
Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga 6-0 Bugiri Town View SS
Victoria Group
Ajax Queens 0-2 Kawempe Muslim Ladies
Muteesa I Royal University 1-1 Asubo Gafford Ladies
She Corporate 1-1 Rines SS
Lady Doves 4-1 Dynamic SS Jjeza
Kawempe Muslim Ladies became the first team to earn a slot to the playoffs of the 2018/19 FUFA Women Elite League after registering a 2-0 win away to Ajax Queens over the weekend.
The four-time winners and defending champions ensured they sealed their berth with four games to play after third-placed She Corporate were held at home by Rines SS.
Juliet Nalukenge and Asia Nakibuuka scored for the Warriors to move to 28 points in ten games, 14 ahead of She Corporate hence confirming their qualification from Victoria group. In the same group, second-placed Lady Doves also cemented their position and edged closer to the playoffs with a convincing 4-1 win against bottom-placed Dynamic SS Jjeza.
She Corporates Aisha Namubiru (R) shielding the ball away from Rines’ Naluyima Kauthara
Lydia Nyandera scored a brace while Lilian Zeddy Veronica and Nuru Nakyanzi added a goal each to help the Masindi based side to 22 points. Scovia Kibiri got the consolation for Dynamic SS Jjeza who are bottom of the table with only one point.
Muteesa I Royal University and Asubo Gafford Ladies played out a one-all draw on Saturday. Elizabeth Nakigozi gave the University side the lead but Gafford Ladies rallied back through Sheebah Zalwango to salvage a point.
She Corporate needed to come from a goal down to earn a point against a resilient Rines SS side. Jackie Nassali had given Rines the lead but Favour Nambatya leveled matters in the second half.
In Elizabeth group, UCU Lady Cardinals brightened their hopes of qualifying for the playoffs with a 4-2 win over Isra Soccer Academy.
Hasifa Nassuna was in fine form grabbing a hat trick before Captain Maureen Kinavudori added the other goal. Fauziah Najjemba scored the two goals for Isra.
The victory propelled UCU Lady Cardinals top of the table on 21 points same as Olila High School who edged Kampala Queens in Soroti thanks to Patricia Apio’s solitary strike.
Uganda Martyrs High School were the biggest winners on matchday ten with a clean out against debutants Bugiri Town View.
Crested Cranes defender Shadia Nankya continued with her scoring spree netting a hat trick to move to eight league goals this season. She already leads the scoring charts in the FUFA Women Cup with seven goals.
The other goals for Uganda Martyrs were scored by Rashida Nankya(brace) and an own goal by Esther Namudira. The Lubaga based team is now level on points with Isra both on 16 points.
Makerere University won 1-0 against Lango Queens with Rebecca Nakasaato scoring the lone goal. The race for the top scorer’s boot is still on with Hasifa Nassuna leading with 12 goals while Fauziah Najjemba and Juliet Nalukenge are both tied on ten goals apiece.
Meanwhile, in the FUFA Women’s Cup, Kawempe Muslim Junior team earned a walkover against Mwanda Foundation who failed to travel to Kampala. This, therefore, means the former qualify to the quarterfinal stage.
MAIN PHOTO: Rines’ Naluyima Kauthara (c) sandwiched by She Corporates pair of Penina Akuku (L) and Tina Nambirige
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega has released a squad comprising of 23 players ahead of the Kampala regional tour on Saturday, 16th March 2019.
This will be the first time that the women’s national team will play a regional tour game. They will play against Kampala Select regional side.
The team comprises of four goalkeepers, six defenders, eight midfielders and five strikers with the core of the team that played at the 2018 CECAFA Women’s Championship maintained.
Skipper Tracy Jones Akiror, reigning FUFA Female footballer Ruth Aturo and FUFA Women Elite leading top scorer Hasifa Nassuna are all part of the squad.
The team will have two days of non-residential training on 14th and 15th March 2019 at Maroons stadium, Luzira.
Coaches Mbekeka and Bulega work out a plan for the training session of Crested Cranes in 2018 at Kabojja grounds
According to FUFA Communications Manager, Ahmed Hussein, the motive of the tour is to move the team nearer to the fans but also help the team play more games.
‘Like it is the case with the senior men’s team, FUFA wants to take the Crested Cranes to the people but at the same time helps the team to remain active.’ He said.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Ruth Aturo(UCU Lady Cardinals), Vanessa Edith Karungi (She Corporate), Juliet Adeke(Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Daizy Nakaziro(Lady Doves)
Defenders: Shadia Nankya(Uganda Martys High School Lubaga), Aisha Namukisa(Kampala Queens), Wilmer Nantumbwe(She Corporate), Margaret Birabwa( Muteesa I Royal University), Phoebe Banura ( UCU Lady Cardinals), Viola Namuddu( Makerere University)
Midfileders: Damalie Matama(Kampala Queens), Phiona Nabbumba ( Ajax Queens,Bulenga), Fauziah Najjemba( Isra Soccer Academy), Tracy Jones Akiror( Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Teddy Najjuma (UCU Lady Cardinals), Lilian Mutuuzo( Kampala Queens), Anita Namata (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Shamira Nalujja( Isra Soccer Academy)
Crested Cranes Defender Nankya Shadia aims to clear the ball during Crested Cranes training in 2018.
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes captain Tracy Akiror (L) in charge of the ball in the match against Zimbabwe during the 2018 COSAFA Women Championship in South Africa.
FUFA has opened up yet another opportunity of recruiting new staff to work with the football governing body of Uganda. The qualified personnel will apply for two positions at the Secretariat as below.
Procurement Officer
Developer (IBM Domino Designer)
Extensive Knowledge of Ugandan, African and World Football is an added advantage
The FUFA Newsletter for the month of February 2019 is out. The online publication has interesting stories that made headlines last month. We have also included a brief on UCU Lady Cardinals’ star player Hasifah Nassuuna who is close to reaching a century of league goals.
2nd March 2019 Olila High School vs Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC
2nd March 2019 Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga vs Divine Girls
3rd March 2019 She Corporates vs Muteesa I Royal University
3rd March 2019 Makerere University vs Asubo Gafford
10th March 2019 Kawempe Junior Team vs Mwanda Foundation
17th March 2019 Bunyaruguru Girls vs Tooro Queens FC
17th March 2019Kampala Queens vs Lady Doves
17th March 2019 Sagich Royal vs Echos High School
Olila High School against Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC will be the biggest game in the round of 16 for the 2019 FUFA Women’s Cup after the draws held on Wednesday at FUFA House, Mengo pitted the two teams together.
The game will be a repeat of the 2017/18 FUFA Women Elite League final where Kawempe Muslim edged the Soroti based side courtesy of a Tracy Jones Akiror lone strike at Lugogo.
Olila High School won the maiden FUFA Women’s Cup in 2017 defeating Asubo Gafford Ladies in the final played in Busia at the Madibira grunds and will be seeking to win the annual knockout tournament for the second time.
Under the guidance of Ayub Khalifa, Kawempe dumped out holders UCU Lady Cardinals in the previous round winning the game 3-1 in Mukono. However, the Warriors have never gone past the quarterfinal stage and will be hoping to break the jinx this season.
In the other fixture involving teams playing in the top tier league, last season’s losing finalists She Corporate will host Muteesa I Royal University. Both teams are in Victoria group of the FUFA Women Elite League . The two league engagements ended in barren stalemates.
Uganda Martyrs High School WFC official Ivan Ssempa Kimbugwe showing Mutesa I Royal during the draws of FUFA Women’s Cup round of 16 draws.
Makerere University (She MAK) who earned a walkover against Bugiri Town View in the round of 32 will play Asubo Gafford Ladies while Kampala Queens FC face Lady Doves from Masindi district.
Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga were the biggest winners at the round of 32 outwitting Watoto Girls 10-0 with Crested Cranes start player Shadia Nankya scoring seven goals. They will be at home against Divine Girls a team that stunned Rines Women FC in the previous round.
Bunyaruguru Girls(Rubirizi District) take on Tooro Queens FC from Fortportal district while Sagich Royal from Serere district faces Echos High School from Soroti District.
Crested Cranes and Dove FC goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro was among those who took part in the process of FUFA Women’s Cup Round of 16 draws at FUFA House Mengo on Tuesday morning
FUFA Club Licensing manager, Ivan Kintu Bayige explained that the fixtures involving Tooro Queens vs Bunyaruguru Girls and Sagich Royal vs Echos High School were drawn according to the geographical location of the teams.
‘The games involving Bunyaruguru Girls vs Tooro Queens FC and Sagich Royal vs Echos High School have been drawn according to the location of the teams, “ he said before adding “ In case the teams are tying after normal time, the teams will head straight to kicks from the penalty mark to determine the winner’
L-R Ashe Mukasa, FUFA Marketing Director Esther Musoke, FUFA Events Manager Leila Nankya and Ronald Muganzi during the launch of the CSR event.
The round of 16 fixtures will be played between 2nd -17th March 2019. The one legged ties will not need extra time in case normal time scores are even.
MAIN PHOTO:FUFA Women Development Officer Joan Namusisi taking part in the draws of FUFA Women’s Cup round of 16 at FUFA House Mengo on Wednesday
