Uganda National Women football team ‘Crested Cranes’ departed for the COSAFA Women Championship on Monday afternoon.
Nabbumba Phionah (L) and Nabissaalu Bridget
The contingent of 20 left Entebbe International Airport at 15:00hrs aboard South African Airlines and landed safely at OR Tambo International airport. Accommodated at Hotel near Airport but will connect tomorrow to Port Elizabeth.
Before departure head coach Faridah Bulega assured Ugandans that the team is ready for the tournament and they are going to compete not to participate.
‘We are going to compete but not to participate. My players will gain confidence, experience and exposure.
It is a great opportunity to be invited to this great tournament. We shall not disappoint our fans’ said Crested Cranes Head Coach Bulega.
Bulega also listed exposure and experience as some of the privileges her players will gain during the tournament.
Zaina Namuleme and Head Coach Faridah Bulega inside the plane.
Crested Cranes captain Tracy Jones Akiror promised Ugandans they will deliver and put up a fight.
‘We are well motivated. We are going to fight for good results. We urge all Ugandans to be behind us. Give us the support. We will not disappoint you’ said Crested Cranes captain Akiror
Akiror (L) and Goalkeeper Adeke Juliet on board
Uganda is in group C with Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Crested Cranes will play Swaziland in the opening fixture on 12th September before taking Namibia and Zimbabwe on 15th and 17th respectively.
The fixtures for Uganda;
12th Swaziland vs Uganda
15th September Namibia vs Uganda
17th September Zimbabwe vs Uganda
The full Contingent
Goalkeepers-Aturo Ruth (UCU Lady Cardinals), Nakaziro Daisy (Muteesa I Royal University), Adeke Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Namuddu Viola (She MAK), Nankya Shadia (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga), Nabisaalu Bridget(Ajax Queens), Namukisa Aisha (Kampala Queens), Aluka Grace (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nalugya Shamirah (Israh Soccer Academy), Nassuuna Hasifah (UCU Lady Cardinals), Akiror Tracy Jones (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Mutiibwa Shakira (Gafford Ladies), Nakacwa Spencer (Uganda Martyrs), Alupo Norah (Saviours Women FC), Mutuuzo Lillian (Kampala Queens), Nabbumba Phiona (Ajax Queens), Nabbosa Riticia (Lady Doves), Namuleme Zainah (Kampala Queens), Nalukenge Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nanziri Resty (Kampala Queens).
Fitness trainer Oliver Mbekeka (L) and Nabbosa Riticia
Head coach of the Uganda Women National team Faridah Bulega has named the final squad of 20 players travelling to South Africa for the COSAFA Women Championship due 12th-22nd Septmber, 2018. The Crested Cranes contingent will fly out this afternoon (3.15pm) aboard South African Airways.
Uganda is in Group C with Swaziland, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
The fixtures for Uganda;
12th Swaziland vs Uganda
15th September Namibia vs Uganda
17th September Zimbabwe vs Uganda
The full Contingent
Goalkeepers-Aturo Ruth (UCU Lady Cardinals), Nakaziro Daisy (Muteesa I Royal University), Adeke Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Namuddu Viola (She MAK), Nankya Shadia (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga), Nabisaalu Bridget(Ajax Queens), Namukisa Aisha (Kampala Queens), Aluka Grace (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nalugya Shamirah (Israh Soccer Academy), Nassuuna Hasifah (UCU Lady Cardinals), Akiror Tracy Jones (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Mutiibwa Shakira (Gafford Ladies), Nakacwa Spencer (Uganda Martyrs), Alupo Norah (Saviours Women FC), Mutuuzo Lillian (Kampala Queens), Nabbumba Phiona (Ajax Queens), Nabbosa Riticia (Lady Doves), Namuleme Zainah (Kampala Queens), Nalukenge Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nanziri Resty (Kampala Queens).
Bridget Nabisaalu, Shakira Mutiibwa, Mariam Nakabugo and Resty Nanziri during training at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
Uganda Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega has in a special way lauded the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) for giving the team various opportunities, a feat, that has precipitated the natural growth and stability of the players.
A former national team player herself, Bulega remarked;
I want to commend FUFA for the outstanding interest, passion and commitment by giving us these many opportunities this year to engage in as many international competitions this year. This has helped us improve mentally and physically while at the same time gain experience. With this trend, I promise you this team is going to challenge even the so called ‘giants’ of women football on the continent and the world in not so many years from now. The clubs in Ugandan have alos played a key role in taking care of the players. The players are always with the coaches at their clubs and help alot in handling them on a daily basis during the training sessions.
The remarks are appropriate at a time Bulega will clock one year in service at the helm of the national women football team, since taking over from Majida Nantanda in September 2017.
Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega passing on tactics to left full back Grace Aluka during training in Njeru. Bulega is grateful to FUFA for providing platforms for young players to express themselves. with their talent and skills which has raised their confidence
The Crested Cranes have been camping at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru since Thursday last week preparing for the 2018 COSAFA Women Championship that kicks off on Wednesday September 12th 2018 in South Africa.
Commenting about the upcoming COSAFA Women championship where Uganda is among the invited guest teams, Bulega will openly grab the opportunity with both hands to weigh the relatively young squad against strong and experienced teams on the continent like hosts South Africa, Cameroon and Zimbabwe that are AWCON 2018 bound among others.
Time Check: L-R Faridah Bulega with her technical team James Magala (Goalkeeping coach) and Edward Kaziba (Assistant coach) at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The team is set to fly out on Monday afternoon (3.15pm). to South Africa. Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia are the teams in the same group with Uganda.
Lillian Mutuuzo(in red for Uganda) is revelation of the chances that have been created for women football players by FUFA and the clubs in Uganda. In this photo, MUtuuzo is seen controlling the ball from going out during the match between Uganda and Tanzania at the 2018 CECAFA Women championship in Rwanda.Crested Cranes Head coach Faridah Bulega instructs Jackie Nassali in one of the National team’s camps
The team in camp;
Goal Keepers: Ruth Aturo, Daisy Nakaziro and Juliet Adeke.
The Uganda Women football Team-Crested Cranes has entered camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru to start preparations for the 2018 COSAFA Women Championship to be hosted by South Africa from 12th-22nd September.
Crested Cranes head coach named a squad of 23 players that will be reduced to 20 for the tournament.
The team travelled on Thursday to Njeru and will hold double training sessions today.
The players in camp: Goalkeepers-Aturo Ruth (UCU Lady Cardinals), Nakaziro Daisy (Muteesa I Royal University), Adeke Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC).
Namuddu Viola (She MAK), Nankya Shadia (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga), Nabisaalu Bridget(Ajax Queens), Namukisa Aisha (Kampala Queens), Aluka Grace (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nalugya Shamirah (Israh Academy), Nassuuna Hasifah (UCU Lady Cardinals), Akiror Tracy Jones (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Mutiibwa Shakira (Gafford Ladies), Nakacwa Spencer (Uganda Martyrs Lubaga), Alupo Norah (Olila Women FC), Mutuuzo Lillian (Tagy High), Nabbumba Phiona (Ajax Queens), Nabbosa Riticia (Lady Doves), Namuleme Zainah (Kampala Queens), Nalukenge Juliet (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Nanziri Resty (Tagy High), Nakabugo Mariam (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Najjemba Fauzia (Israh Academy) and Favor Nambatya (Muteesa I Royal University).
Team Officials:
Leader of Delegation: Chris Kalibbala
Head coach: Faridah Bulega
Assistant head coach: Edward Kaziba
Team Manager: Paul Ssali Mukisa
Medical Officer: Kabatalindwa Mable
Goalkeepers’ trainer: James Magala
Team Media Officer: Stephen Mayamba
Fitness trainer: Oliver Mbekeka
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes during the CECAFA Women Championship inRwanda.
Uganda National women team Crested Cranes’ was drawn in group C of the forthcoming COSAFA Women Championship in South Africa.
The draw that was conducted on Wednesday evening confirmed Uganda to contest with last year’s runners-up Zimbabwe, Namibia and Swaziland.
Crested Cranes was invited to take part in the Southern Africa Countries Association tournament that is scheduled to start from 12th to 22nd September 2018 in Port Elizabeth.
Africa’s third ranked women footballing Nation Cameroon was also invited as guests and was placed in group B with Zambia, Lesotho and Mozambique.
Meanwhile, Crested Cranes coach Farida Bulega is confident the players have been together for a period and will play for postive results in South Africa.
‘It is a great opportunity to be invited for COSAFA Championship. It is what our young players on the National team need to get experience. Playing against Zimbabwe, South Africa, Cameroon and other Nations in the tournament is what will build our players’ confidence. The squad will be released soon to start preparations for the tournament’ said Crested Cranes coach Bulega.
Last month, Crested Cranes participated in CECAFA Women Championship in Rwanda and finished runners up to Tanzania.
Group A:
South Africa, Botswana, Madagascar, Malawi
Group B:
Zambia, Cameroon, Lesotho, Mozambique
Group C:
Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Namibia, Uganda
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes Team that beat Kenya during the CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Rwanda this year.
The Uganda Women Senior Team (Crested Cranes) finished runners-up in the just concluded 2018 CECAFA Challenge Cup in Rwanda.
The Crested Cranes collected 7 points from 4 matches to finish second losing the first position to Tanzania on goal difference.
Uganda defeated Kenya 1-0 in the first game, saw off Ethiopia in the second fixtureby 2-1 before falling to Tanzania 4-1.
Crested Cranes Team after receiving Silver Medals during the closing ceremony of CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Rwanda on Friday.
On Wednesday, Uganda was held to a 2-2 draw by hosts Rwanda-a result that dashed the hopes of the Crested Cranes to win their maiden title.
Tanzania defeated Ethiopia 4-1 in the last game to level with Uganda on 7 points. Nevertheless, they were crowned champions for the second time in a row while Rwanda lost to Kenya in the second game on the closing day by 2-0.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s shot stopper Aturo Ruth was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament after putting up a good show.
Crested Cranes’ goalkeeper Aturo Ruth posing with her accolade during the closing ceremony of CECAFA Women Challenge Cup
‘ I was determined and focused not to let my team lose. I’m so glad I have won the award. I thank my teammates for the support, without them I wouldn’t have achieved this. No one realised we could reach this far but we believed in ourselves. It’s a great achievement to me and the team’ said Aturo Ruth.
The Crested Cranes received a runners-up prize money of 1500$ from the organisers while Tanzania took $2500 prize money and a trophy. Ethiopia took $1000 after finishing third.
The Uganda Crested Cranes delegation was led by the Chairman Uganda Football Referees Association and FUFA Excom Member Ronie Kalema, Margaret Kubingi Chairperson Uganda Women Football Association, Team Coordinator Paul Ssali, Farida Bulega the Head Coach, Assistant coach Edward Kaziba, Goalkeeping Coach Magala James, Mable Kabatalindwa the Team Doctor, Olive Mbekeka-Fitness Trainer and Nsereko Kawuma Hamzah the Team Media Officer
(L-R) Technical Officials Mable Kabatalindwa – Team Doctor, Olive Mbekeka – Fitness Trainer, Faridah Bulega – Head Coach, Edward Kaziba – Assistant Coach, Magala James – Goalkeeping Coach
Crested Cranes captain Tracy Jones Akiror in control of the ball against Rwandan opponent. She has showed class and maturity with her leadership in her role as captain.Lilian Mutuuzo takes on Rwandan opponent during the clash on Wednesday. She has been a joy to watch in the torunament.
Crested Cranes Players and officials in Rwanda in a group
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes Team after receiving Silver Medals during the closing ceremony of CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Rwanda on Friday.
Uganda National Women Team Crested Cranes is still on the title chase despite suffering a heavy 1-4 defeat at the hands of defending champions Tanzania in the Stede De Kigali on Monday afternoon in their third game of CECAFA Women Challenge Cup.
Shadia Nankya scored a header from Zaina Namuleme’s direct free-kick from the right side in added time of the second half. Crested Cranes had already conceded four times in an unfamiliar fashion.
Shadia Nankya (R) celebrating with Yudaya Nakayenze after scoring against Tanzania
Tanzania’s captain Asha Saada Rachid scored a hat-trick in the 17th , 45th and 52nd minutes whileDonisia Daniel Minja got her team’s second strike.
Crested Cranes head coach Farida Bulega noted with optimism that her team is still focused and looking forward to win the last match against Rwanda’.
Crested Cranes suffered their first loss today but will build confidence on the six points already collected off Kenyaand Ethiopia.
Crested Cranes Forward Juliet Nalukenge (Red) chasing the ball in the match against Tanzania on Monday
‘My girls tried their best but it was not on our day but we are still focused. We have learnt from the errors we have made today. We are here to compete with every team that comes our way. We shall do our best in the last game against Rwanda. We shall fight for glory’ said Bulega
The tournament is played on a round robin basis. The top placed Nation with highest number of points collected will be crowned Champions.
The Crested Cranes defeted Kenya (1-0) and Ethiopia (2-1) in their opening two games.
Crested Cranes deadly winger Lillian Mutuuzo in action during the match against TanzaniaCrested Cranes XI
The Uganda National women team Crested Cranes are delivering on all fronts but leaving their doubters in the cold corner following two wins out of two matches in the ongoing CECAFA Women Challenge Cup in Rwanda.
Having dislodged neighbours and rivals Kenya on Thursday (1-0), the Crested Cranes handled by Faridah Bulega kept their feet on ground to plan for the downfall of Ethiopia on Saturday.
Crested Cranes Starting XI against Ethiopia. Standing From L-R; Aturo Ruth, Nakayenze Yudaya, Phionah Nabbumba, Aluka Grace, Nankya Shadia and Namuddu Viola – Front row L-R; Tracy Jones Akiror(C), Namuleme Zaina, Nakachwa Spencer, Lilian Mutuuzo and Nalukenge Juliet. The Crested Cranes were in scintilating form as they came from a goal down to beat Ethiopia 2-1.
The one day rest played the magic and when the ladies got the chance to return to action today, they played gallantly and with heart to secure three points. However they fell to a first half goal in the 39th minute but that didn’t deter their spirits as they kept on searching for the leveler.
Ethiopia Starting XI that fell to Crested Cranes on Saturday
Left fullback Grace Aluka who hit the cross bar on Thursday against Kenya from the free-kick, got it better this time against Ethiopia when the opportunity came her way to get the equaliser for Crested Cranes to make it 1-1 after the break.
Another pivotal player in the defence of the Crested Cranes Yudaya Nakayenze was on the mark with a header after a free kick was delivered by right back Viola Namuddu.
Crested Craes’ Lillian Mutuuzo was unplayable again today.
The game ended 2-1 in favour of Crested Cranes. Uganda will return to action on Monday against Tanzania in a tournament played on a round robin basis.
Crested Cranes players getting tips from their Head coach Faridah Bulega
Crested Cranes coach about the win today
‘The Ethiopians are technically good. They have speed. We conceded 4 goals in the last edition of the CECAFA in Njeru but today is my day. The players followed the instructions. We now have six points but we shall not relax till the last day of the tournament’
Crested Cranes Substitutions made; Naluyimba Esther for Nabbumba Phionah, Namwase Monica for Zaina Namuleme and Bridget Nabisalu for Spencer Nakachwa.
MAIN PHOTO: On the attack- L-R Zainah Namuleme, Skipper Tracy Jones Akiror and one of the goal scorers Grace Aluka were a pain to the Ethiopian defence. Crested Crabes beat Ethiopia 2-1.
Kenya (Harambee Starlets) 0-1 Uganda (Crested Cranes)
Uganda Women National Team-Crested Cranes edged Kenya in the opening match of the 2018 CECAFA Women Challenge Cup played at the Stade de Kigali, Nyamirambo on Thursday.
The Crested Cranes won 0-1 with teenager Lillian Mutuuzo scoring the goal in the 7th minute.
Mutuuzo who was born on 22nd December 2002 plays on the right wing but was a thorn to Kenya’s backline.
Prayer session for the Crested Cranes players prior to kick off
Gallant defending by the backline led by Yudaya Nakayenze, Shadia Nankya, Viola Namuddu and Aluka Grace (same players who faced Kenya in the AFWCON Qualifiers ealry this year) were alert for the entire game.
Uganda Crested Cranes players celebrate the after the lone strike.
Tracy Akiror captained the team in the absence of Hasifah Nassuuna
The youthful Crested Cranes Starting XI that defeated Kenya in Kigali on ThursdayTime for the Uganda National Anthem on the Crested Cranes benchNational Anthem moment for Crested Cranes players before taking on Kenya in KigaliTime for the toss of the coin. Crested Cranes skipper Tracy Jones Akiror is on the right
Uganda returns to action on Saturday, 21st July 2018 against Ethiopia at the Stade De Kigali.
The starting line-up of Crested Cranes (Uganda Women National team) to face Kenya today afternoon in the CECAFA Women Championship in Rwanda has been released by head coach Faridah Bulega.
The two rival countries face off at 3pm (UG Time, 2pm Rwanda time).
Saturday 21-7-2018
Ethiopia Vs Uganda Stade de Kigali (2pm)
Monday 23-7-2018
Uganda vs Tanzania -Stade de Kigali (2pm)
Wednesday 25-7-2018
Uganda vs Rwanda -Stade de Kigali, (4pm)
After safely arriving in the Rwandan Capital-Kigali on Tuesday morning, the Uganda Women National football team -Crested Cranes and all the officials were accommodated at Hotel Hilltop and Country Club.
On Tuesday evening, the girls from the Pearl of Africa under female tactician Faridah Bulega with the help of Edward Kaziba and James Magala-Goalkeepers’ coach together with the fitness trainer Oliver Mbekeka conducted their first training in Kigali at the Mumena artificial turf stadium.
On duty-Crested Cranes players during the drills in Kigali
The main focus during the training was ball control and passing, long range shooting plus how to deal with dead ball situations.
The coach’s excitement was noticeable after the training which she later shared with fufa.co.ug that the girls are in fine shape.
Goalkeepers on duty with their coach James Magala (Orange top)
“I have a reason to smile due to the positive reaction from my players. We have been dealing with shooting from a distance and dead ball situations to cub the goal drought from our team. In this situation we also chose who is to take responsibility when the team wins set pieces” said Bulega
Crested Cranes players stretching for top fitness before they take on Kenya on Wednesday
She added that her preparations aren’t focused at a specific team but which ever opponent who comes her way.
Tactical session involving all the three coaches L-R James Magala, Bulega Faridah and Edward Kaziba
Five teams are taking part in this year’s competition that is Rwanda (hosts), Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Uganda.
The Crested Cranes will train today at 2pm (Uganda time) at Stade De Kigali ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Kenya.
MAIN PHOTO: Striker Zaina Namuleme aims at shooting during practice on Tuesday in Kigali.
The 2018 CECAFA Women Championship kicks off this Thursday on 19th July 2018. 20 players of the Uganda Women Nation Team (Crested Cranes) have travelled to Rwanda ahead of this year’s Championship.
5 Countries are to participate in this Championship which will be played on a round robin format. Crested Cranes’ first fixture will be against Kenya on 19th July.
Uganda National Women Football Team-Crested Cranes entered day two of residential training at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru as they continue with preparations for the forthcoming CECAFA Championship in Rwanda.
Crested Cranes left Kampala on Friday afternoon and will camp in Njeru until Tuesday when they travel to Kigali.
“The atmosphere is good. The players are in good state. We are just waiting for the time to go to Rwanda try to deliver to our abilities’ said Faridah Bulega headcoach Crested Cranes.
Here are some pictures from Njeru
Crested Cranes players planning during training
Winnie Babirye closing in for the ball as others players (L-R) Namuddu Viola, Juliet Nalukenge and Yudaya Nakayenze monitor her movementsTime for Interviews with National team Media officer Joseph MutakaTime to relax bare-footed after training on SaturdayTowering and stylish defender Shadia Nankya of Uganda Martys Lubaga is also in Njeru for the residential camp.
The 2018 Cecafa Women Football Championship is slated for 19July 2018
After 6 days of nonresidential training at Lugogo, the National women’s team (Crested Cranes) is to start residential training at FUFA Technical center Njeru before departure for 2018 CECAFA Championship which begins on 19th July in Rwanda.
As scheduled on the sixth day, Crested Cranes had a buildup match with KJT FC (U17) boys to assess the players.
Crested Cranes defender Nankya Shadia aims to clear the ball
Despite losing by a big margin ( conceded 8 times and replied once), head coach Faridah Bulega believes her targets were achieved. Crested Cranes’ lone goal was scored by Nakachwa Spencer.
‘I have achieved my ambitions having scored against a very talented team. Our tactical play and reaction need more efforts. I am sure by the time we travel to Rwanda the team will be a better side’ said Bulega.
‘Our emphasis during training was more on crossing the balls from the wings and shooting at the goal which i think we have achieved’ added Bulega
With the stiff competition among the girls, Bulega has travelled to Njeru with 25 players. The final squad will have 20 players.
Crested Cranes midfielder Naluyimba Esther being closed in by KJT players for the battle of possession of the ball.
The team will enter camp on Friday and train later in the day at 4pm.
Team in camp;
Goalkeepers: Aturo Ruth, Nakaziro Daisy, Adeke Juliet and Nakiguba Cissy
The Uganda National women team- Crested Cranes will play KJT U17 at StarTimes Stadium on Thursday morning ahead of this year’s CECAFA Women Championship in Rwanda.
Crested Cranes’ opening match is against Kenya on 19th July for the Championship to be played on a round robin format before the knock out stages.
‘We are having a friendly with KJT U17. They will give us a competitive game tomorrow and two other unconfirmed sides. I am taking on this as a learning session for the girls’ said Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega.
‘We want to expose the team to different styles and experiences especially speed and tactics’ added Bulega.
Bulega briefing Crested Cranes players at the closure of a training session on Wednesday 11 July 2018
Crested Cranes played friendlies at IUIU with Kampala Select and UCU Lady Cardinals in the build-up to an away game with Kenya in AWCON Qualifiers late March.
Crested Cranes Defender Nankya Shadia(Red) takes on Nanteza Halima during a buid-up match with Kampala Select in late March 2018
Bulega also talked-of the fitness levels of her players and applauded the hard work done by the Women Elite clubs and schools coaches
‘I would love to thank coaches from the Women Elite League and the schools, they have helped me in matters concerning the players’ fitness level. The players are okay’ noted Bulega
“It is nice when we have an opportunity for the Crestd Cranes to face different National teams’ Bulega concluded.
Meanwhile, UCU Lady Cardinals duos goalie Aturo Ruth and Yudaya Nakayenze were confirmed to have joined the camp
Goalie Aturo Ruth during training at Lugogo
The eye catching training was conducted after it rained and under a cloudy noon
Crested Cranes striker Juliet Nalukenge during training at Lugogo
MAIN PHOTO: Crested Cranes players warming up at Lugogo
On Tuesday, U20 National Team(Hippos) head Coach and Assistant Cranes coach Matia Lule made a visit to the Crested Cranes camp and shared motivational, inspirational and tactical knowledge on and off the pitch with the ladies.
He preached change of mindset and attitude as factors that affect the performance of any player.
Crested Crane’s current non residential training camp at Lugogo is vital as they prepare for the 2018 CECAFA Women championship in Rwanda and for bonding purposes.
Crested Cranes warm up at Lugogo on Tuesday 10th July 2018
Speaking about Lule’s, Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega applauded her fellow tactician and rated it as highly motivational in the camp.
‘It has been a good session. We have been with the Hippos Coach, so motivating and we have liked his visit. The girls are in good position, ready to go to CECAFA and come back victors’ said Bulega
Bulega addressing the media after training
Stand in captain and midfielder Tracy Jones Akiror commended the spirits in camp and praised the technical team.
‘So far the players are good. Our fitness level has improved a lot. Our coaches have done a great job and we expect to improve more and more to the top most levels and beyond as we prepare for this year’s Championship in Rwanda’ said Akiror.
Akiror while addressing the media. She is the stand-in skipper in the absence of Hasifah Nassuuna who is in plans of travelling abroad. Two other players Yudaya Nakayenze and Ruth Aturo are also linked with a move to Europe.
The highly motivated team, is set to contest for the regional Championship come 19th July when they open with Kenya. The Crested have used the lugogo pitch since 7th July, where they have trained on a daily.
Magala James the goalkeeping coach ensured all is well with his section before closure of the training session
Magala James (yellow top) with goalkeepers( L-R Nakaziro Daisy, Adeke Juliet and Nakiguba Cissy) during training at Lugogo on Tuesday
The camp has 27 players and will have two more non-residential sessions before entering residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on Friday.
MAIN PHOTO: Coach Mathias Lule with Crested Cranes players during training
The 2018 CECAFA Women Championship is fast approaching and expectations are sky-high for the ladies whose campaign for the regional championship begins on July 19th in Rwanda. The Crested Cranes trained on Saturday afternoon in the sunny conditions and were put through their paces by the National Team Coach Faridah Bulega
The Crested Cranes squad went through drills before taking part in an eleven aside game at the StarTimes Stadium.
Team A Select that participated in an eleven aside gameTeam B Select side
Out of the 27 players summoned, 24 turned up and the coach believes her team will deliver the best come the Championship in Rwanda.
‘All Players are in good condition. The rest will join us but I know my players will deliver the best’ said Bulega Crested Cranes Head Coach.
Crested Cranes Head Coach Faridah Bulega talking to players before physical training
Midfielder Tracy Jones Akiror commended the players summoned and highly hopes for a successful Championship in Rwanda.
“Players that were summoned are good but they need to improve on the fitness levels.
Akiror takes on Favour Nambatya(Green Bib) during their traing at Lugogo
