Saturday 07/07/2018 – Non Residential training at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
Time: 3:00 pm
Uganda National women team has been summoned to start preparations for the 2018 CECAFA Championship that kicks off on 19th of July in Rwanda.
The first training session is scheduled for Saturday 7th July-3PM at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
Faridah Bulega is the Head Coach assisted by Edward Kaziba. Jaames Magala is the Goalkeeping coach while Olive Mbekeka is the fitness trainer.
UCU Lady Cardinals emerged Winners of the 2018 FUFA Women’s Cup after defeating She Corporates in the final played at Kabwohe playground in Sheema district on Saturday.
The Mukono based side registered a 2-0 victory over rivals She Corporates to clinch the second edition of the knockout tournament.
Mercy Nabulobi and Hasifah Nassuuna scored a goal each in the second half to help UCU Lady Cardinals earn their first major title in FUFA Competitions.
The game witnessed either side get a share of chances but they lacked cutting edge with the opening 45 minutes ending goalless.
She Corporates Goalkeeper Fatumah Matovu makes a save during the final
Five minutes into the game, Nassuna came close after winning possession from defender Memory Nampijja but her effort sailed wide.
UCU skipper Maureen Kinavudori also had an opportunity five minutes later following a goal melee but goalkeeper Fatuma Matovu was quick to save.
Action in the 2018 FUFA Women Cup between UCU Lady Cardinals and She Corporates.
The University side kept surging forward and at the hour mark, midfielder Ruth Penninah Akuku had to clear off the line to deny Nassiuna with goalkeeper Matovu already beaten.
On the other hand, She Corporates too had a couple of chances through Alice Kalimba and Dorothy Nakato but failed to breakthrough.
In the second half, UCU Lady Cardinals stepped up their efforts and broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute.
Nabulobi’s free kick from the left side of the pitch went straight into the back of the net to help UCU get the lead.
Despite stepping up efforts to search for an equalizer, She Corporates fell short and it was UCU Lady Cardinals that doubled their lead through Nassuuna with seven minutes to play.
Jackie Nakasi dribbled past defender Nampijja before setting up Nassuuna at the edge of the box. The latter did no mistake to curl home.
Nassuuna later received the Winners’ trophy on behalf of her captain Kinavudori who was in deep pain following injury on her right leg tgat affected her ankle and knee.
FUFA Vice President Darius Mugoye was the Guest of Honour at the game.
The other dignitaries that watched the game included; Hamid Juma, a FUFA executive member from Kampala region Mutaka Sseka Chairman Western Region GA Chairman, Chris Kalibala another FUFA Executive member, Margaret Kubingi Chairperson UWFA and National team Crested Cranes coach Faridah Bulega among others.
Individual Awards:
UCU captain Maureen Kinavudori was named the Most Valuable Player while Ruth Aturo emerged the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
UCU captain Maureen Kinavudori receives the Most Valuable Player accolade from Crested Cranes Head Coach Faridah Bulega
Bugiri Town View striker Sharuwa Nakayima finished as the top scorer with four goals.
The FUFA Fair play award also went to Bugiri Town View for getting the least bookings.
Bugiri Town View Official Kabanda Sadik (L) receives the Fair play Accolade from Western Region Football Association Chairman Sseka Mutaka
Olila Women FC from Soroti district won the inaugural edition last year defeating Gafford Ladies in the final played at Madibira grounds in Busia.
The match officials with the assessor Rosebell Rwamuyamba (in suit) after officiating at the 2018 FUFA Women’s Cup
The winners will get 3M shillings, runners up 2m while the semi-finalists 1m each.
The Individual award winners each gets UGX 100,000 while the Fair play team of the year takes UGX 200,000.
Mutesaa I Royal University 1(4)-1(5) She Corporate
Final 23rd June, 2018 at Kabwohe, Bushenyi: UCU Lady Cardinals vs She Corporate
Kenyan import Maureen Kinavudori and Esther Kadondi netted a goal each in the first half for UCU Lady Cardinals to send Holders Olila Women FC out of the FUFA Women’s cup.
Amoding Siporosa (8) of Olila Women’s FC taking on Mercy Nabulobi (3) of UCU Lady Cardinals
It was perfect revenge for UCU Lady Cardinals who were ejected from the competition last year by Olila at this stage.
It is the first time UCU are reaching the final of the competition played on a knock out basis that was started last year.
Norah Alupo got the consolation for the ousted Olila. The match was played at UCU Campus in Mukono on Wednesday afternoon.
She Corporate joins UCU in Finals
She Corporate joined Uganda Christian University Cardinals in the final after eliminating Mutesa I Royal University at Muteesa II Memorial Stadium, Wankulukuku.
Namubiru Noeline scored an early goal in the 5th minute to give the visitors a lead but Habiba Nakayobyo leveled matters towards the end of halftime to bring the hosts back to the game.
Habiba Nakayobyo scores for Muteesa
Regular time wasn’t enough to separate the two sides thus the winner was decided on kicks from the penalty mark.
She Corporate’s custodian Fatumah Matovu exhibited great skills by stopping two of Mutesa’s kicks taken by Favour Nambatya and Margaret Namirimu.
Matovu converted the last kick to send her team to the maiden final.
Noeline Namiiro, Alice Kalimba, Penina Akuku, Sarah Namulindwa also converted for She Corporate with Florence Imanizabayo missing while Margaret Birabwa, Sharifah Naiga, Elizabeth Nakigozi and Najembe Precious successfully negotiated their kicks for Muteesa I Royal University.
The final will be played in Bushenyi at Kabwohe grounds on 23rd June, 2018.
MAIN PHOTO: UCU Lady Cardinals’ Hasifah Nassuuna with the ball in the game against Olila Women FC on Wednesday in Mukono.
Muteesa I Royal University Vs She Corporate- Wankulukuku Stadium
Semifinals to be played on 13th and 14th June 2018 Final to be played on 23rd June 2018 in Bushenyi District Holders Olila Women Football Club will face UCU Lady Cardinals in the semifinals of this year’s FUFA Women’s Cup. The semifinal draws held at FUFA House on Thursday pitted Olila against UCU Lady Cardinals in a renewal of acquaintances. The two teams faced off at the same stage in the inaugural edition last year an encounter that Olila Women FC won on kicks from the penalty mark to reach the final. Normal time had ended in a two all draw but Olila won 2-1 in the entertaining shoot out shootout. Additionally, the two teams were in the same group (Elizabeth) in the just concluded FUFA Women Elite League. Olila topped the group and eventually reached the finals but lost 1-0 to Kawempe Muslim. The Soroti based side won the league encounter in Mukono 1-0 while the return leg ended in a goalless draw. Olila defeated Bugiri Town View 4-0 to reach the semifinals while UCU Lady Cardinals also won with a similar score against Western United. In the other semifinal, Muteesa I Royal University will host She Corporates at Mutessa II Stadium, Wankulukuku. To reach this stage, the University side eliminated Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga while She Corporates ejected League champions Kawempe Muslim. FUFA Deputy CEO, Humphrey Mandu indicated that there is commitment from FUFA to develop women’s football and impressed with the great strides taken. ‘We are proud as FUFA that Women’s Football is taking great strides of development. We recently had a good final in the league where Kawempe Muslim and Olila Women Football Clubs put up a good display. We believe that the FUFA Women’s Cup gives them more competition and in the long run help in the growth of the game’ said Mandu. This year’s final is slated for 23rd June 2018 in Bushenyi District. Olila Women FC won the inaugural edition last year at Madibira grounds in Busia defeating Gafford Ladies in the final.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies Football Club has been crowned 2017/18 FUFA Women Elite League Champions after edging Olila Women Football Club by 1:0 at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo in Kampala on Saturday 26th May 2018.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC Captain Nakabugo Mariam recieves a dame check from the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (R), FUFA 1st VP Justus Mugisha and FUFA 3rd VP Hon Minister Florence Nakiwala Kiyinji
Champions Kawempe received a dame cheque of UGX 12m as prize Money while Olila Women Football Club clinched Ush.7m.
Tracy Jones Akiror was named FWEL 2017/18 season MVP following her tremendous performance
Midfielder Tracy Akror took the advantage from a rebound on the edge of the box to score the vital goal in the 23rd minute.
Tracy Jones Akiror unleashing the shot that won Kawempe their 4th league title
Kawempe’s forward Juliet Nalukenge had the chance to send the Eastern based Club Olila two goals down but her effort hit the cross bar in the 71st minute.
However, Kawempe enjoyed most of the chances and in the additional time Nalukenge dribbled passed Olila’s goalkeeper Angeo Lucy before her strike hit the goal post.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC Coach Ayub Khalifan (blue) celebrates victory with some of his players
“I thank God we have have made history by winning the fourth title in a row, its special to me and my team. I had given up to the trophy to the team that signed most of my players in the early stages of the league, I have used mainly young players and wasn’t expecting them to archive this.
I call upon my competitors in the league not to give, they should focus on next season” Kawempe Muslim Coach Ayub Kalifan.
Olila’s play maker Alupo Norah failed to have the best of her game in the entire 90 minutes having only one short on target thanks to the alertness and aggressiveness Kawempe’s defender and team captain Mariam Nakabugo.
Olila Women FC Captain Amangat Marion recieves a dame check from the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo (R), as FUFA 1st VP Justus Mugisha and FUFA 3rd VP Hon Minister Florence Nakiwala Kiyinji look on
Meanwhile, in the 3rd playoff match, Gafford took the victory over Kampala Queens Football Club by 1:0 thanks to Monica Namwasa’s strike in the 23rd Minute.
Gafford Ladies’ Anitah Nabirye (8) in action agains Kampala Queens FC Kisitu Faridah(17( during the 3rd palce playoff at Lugogo
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo graced the awarding ceremony together with FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Minister Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Owek. Florence Balunywa Nkalubo, Hamid Juma Chairman FUFA Competitions Committee, Chris Kalibbala Chairman football development Committee , Agnes Mugena FUFA Excutive Committe member and Women Referees delegate Rosebell Rwamuyamba.
Final Match: Kawempe Muslim Women FC – vs Olila Women FC – 4pm
Third place play off: Kampala Queens FC – Gafford Ladies FC – 1.30pm
At the Star Times Stadium Lugogo
The 4th FUFA Women Elite League final between defending champions Kawempe Muslim and emerging powerhouse Olila Women FC will definitely not only be a tall order to predict, but also as eye catching and epic like any other grand finale.
Kawempe Muslim will take on the Soroti side who are the reigning FUFA Women’s cup holders aiming to extend their title winning record to 4 straight league titles as well as cement their position as the greatest side since the inceptions of the national league.
Olila High School against Gafford Ladies during the semi-finals.
For Kawempe, they are chasing for a record, to win four successive league titles whilst Olila seeks to majestically break the dominance.
Star Times stadium, Lugogo will be the venue for the mouth watering fixture between two great sides that swept aside all opposition as they toppled their respective groups enroute to the semi final playoffs.
In the Semi finals, Kawempe needed luck to eliminate a resilient Kampala Queens on 5-4 penalties after a one-all draw.
Olila High School once again inflicted Gafford Ladies the same side they beat in the finals to win the inaugural FUFA Women’s cup last year.
Adeke Juliet saves a penalty kick during the shoot out
Lethal striker Norah Alupo’s lone strike in the first half was enough to help Olila advance to the final and set a date against perennial winners Kawempe.
Earlier in the day Kampala Queens will take on Gafford Ladies in the battle for the 3rd place.
Defending champions Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC have edged Villa Park based side Kampala Queens via kicks from the penalty mark to advance to the final for the 4th year running of the FUFA Women Elite League. Kawempe are also chasing their 4th straight League title as they have won all since the inception of the FUFA Women Elite League in 2015 all under head coach Ayub Khalifan. He is still in charge of the team.
Juliet Nalukenge of Kawempe Muslim (yellow) and Aisha Namukisa (5) of Kampala Quuens in action during their playoff
After a one all draw in the 90 minutes of normal time, Kawempe emerged winners by 5:4 kicks from the penalty mark at StarTimes stadium Lugogo Kampala on Thursday afternoon.
In the normal time, Akello Lillian scored in the 69th to give Kampala Queens the lead which was leveled after three minutes by National team player Tracy Jones Akiror in the 72nd minute.
During the kicks from the penalty mark, Winnie Babirye of Kampala Queens missed the opener while her teammates Aisha Namukisa, Damali Matama, Gladys Nakitto and Zaina Namuleme converted.
Adeke Juliet saves a penalty kick during the shoot out
Akiror enjoying who is having a fine season , Nantongo Aisha, Juliet Nalukenge, Aluka Grace and Brenda Nakayenga scored their kicks to book Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC a place in the final at Lugogo.
Excitement as Grace Aluka (L) leads Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC players in celebrations
Meanwhile, in the second match of the playoffs, Olila Women’s Alupo Norah scored the only goal in the 41st minute that sealed their victory against Gafford Ladies FC to confirm a place in the final against Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC.
Alupo Norah celebrates her goal against Gafford Ladies FC
Olila Women FC are searching for their first league trophy in the history of FUFA Women Elite League.
The final between the two teams will be played at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo on Saturday 26th May 2018 at 4:00PM while Kampala Queens FC will tussle it out with Gafford Ladies FC in the third place playoff at 1:30PM at the same venue.
Olila women FC celebrating their goal against Gafford Ladies FC in the FWEL playoffs at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo
MAIN PHOTO:
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC Celebrate their victory against Kampala Queens FC
Thursday,24th May 2018 Startimes Stadium Lugogo Kawempe Muslim Vs Kampala Queens -1:30pm
Olila High School Vs Gafford Ladies- 4:00pm
The final bend to determine the champion of the 2017/18 FUFA Women Elite League season begins on Thursday with two playoff games at StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
Three time winners and defending champions Kawempe Muslim will take on Kampala Queens while Gafford Ladies will face Olila High School.
Kampala Queens Celebrate a goal scored against Isra Soccer Academy in a previous league match
After a successful completion of the regular season about three weeks ago, the four teams made it to the playoff stage and it is from the aforementioned that the champion will be got.
Kawempe Muslim and Gafford Ladies qualified from Victoria group with 29 and 20 points respectively while Olila High School and Kampala Queens emerged the top two teams in Elizabeth group.
Gafford Ladies Captain Shakira Mutiibwa in action
Olila into the playoffs for the second successive time will seek to make an advancement on their placement last season when they finished fourth.
Equally, Gafford Ladies on the other hand who are returning to the playoffs for the second time will hope their performance in the second round of the regular season where they did not lose any game.
Olila Women celebrate a goal in a league game
Kawempe Muslim under coach Ayub Khalifa are seeking to win the fourth title but will have to go past Kampala Queens a team that needed to win their final two games in the regular season against UCU Lady Cardinals and Uganda Martyrs to earn their maiden appearance at this stage.
The team is under the stewardship of Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega.
The winners on Thursday will face off in the final on Sunday at the same grounds to determine the league champion.
This is the fourth successive year that FUFA is organizing the Women’s national league and this has greatly changed the game both in terms of quality and the number of players taking part.
Main Photo:
Kawempe Muslim forward Juliet Nalukenge controlling the ball
Kawempe’s Juliet Nalukenge in action during the match against She Corporates in the Elite League.
She Corporate Women Football Club displayed the moment of the day in the quarter finals of FUFA Women Cup by overcoming giants Kawempe Muslim 4:3 in kicks from the penalty mark after a goalless draw in regular time on Sunday 20th May.
Sarah Namulindwa, Fatuma Namatovu, Noelin Namiiro, Naome Nagadya and Jaclyne Akuku converted all their penalties for She Corporate while Asia Nakibuka and Sharon Naddunga missed their spot kicks for Kawempe Muslim.
For the second consecutive year Kawempe Muslim women Football Club has failed to qualify for the Semi-finals stage of the FUFA women Cup.
Meanwhile, in the other matches, UCU Lady Cardinals thumped Western United 4:0 to book a place in the Semis.
UCU’s Hasifah Nassuuna scored a brace while her teammates Jack Nakasi and Jauharah Nalubega netted one goal each.
Cup holders Olila High School defeated Bugiri Town View by 4:0 Norah Alupo scored twice before Cissy Nantongo and Siporossa Amoding netted the other two goals respectively.
However, in the first Semi-final on Saturday, Elizabeth Nakigozi guided Muteesa 1 University to the Semis with a sole strike that eliminated Uganda Martyrs High School from this season FUFA Women Cup.
Holders Olila Women will battle it out with Bugiri Town View in the quarter finals of the second edition of the FUFA Women’s cup after a draw conducted this morning pitted the two sides together.
Bugiri is the only non FUFA Women Elite League (FWEL) side left in the competition and will be attempting to halt Olila’s quest to make it two trophies in two years.
One of the leading sports journalists covering women football Betty Miiro picked She Corportes from the pot.
The emerging Soroti powerhouse have also made it to the FWEL play-offs round for the second consecutive year and will face off Gafford Ladies the very side they overcame 3-2 on penalties after a one-all draw to win the inaugural edition of the FUFA Women’s cup in the final played in Busia in June 2017.
In another interesting fixture FWEL defending champions Kawempe Muslim will take on She Corporates in a mouth-watering fixture that will be a repeat of the FWEL play-offs second edition finals.
FUFA Woman player of the year 2017 Hasifa Nassuuna’s UCU Lady Cardinals will play host to Western United whereas Lubaga division neighbours Muteesa I Royal University and Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga will also faceoff in the fourth fixture of the round.
According to the FUFA Women’s Cup Competition rules 2018, in case of a tie after the stipulated time kicks from the penalty mark will be used to determine the winner who progresses to the semi-finals.
Relatedly after confirmation by the FUFA Executive committee that 4 teams will be relegated from the FUFA Women Elite League this season and 4 promoted from the 8 regions, draws for the playoffs were conducted and teams/regions paired to play on home and away basis on the dates to be confirmed by the FUFA Competitions Department and Committee.
Life has dreams. Humanity calls for hard work that leads to success. For Crested Cranes, winning the regional crown will be the main motivation when they plot for the rest of the teams in the Championship that gets underway this weekend in the Rwandan capital, Kigali.
Farida Bulega’s charges reported in camp on Monday morning at African Bible University in Lubowa for further fine tuning in a more concentrated and relaxed environment.
Team skipper Hasifah Nassuuna with the ball being checked by Nabumba Phionah
‘We reported to camp today to prepare for the Regional tournament. The calm environment will help the players focus only on football and rectify on areas still with concerns’ said Bulega.
India based Fazilah Ikwaput was on fire during training.
The Crested Cranes will resume training tomorrow morning at 9 O’clock then play a build-up match in the evening all in Lubowa.
Smiles in camp during the break for Crested Cranes players on Monday at LubowaTime for drillsBridget Nabisalu (l) and Ikwaput tussling for the ball during training.Hasifah Nassuuna with her trademark smile during training. She will lead the Crested Cranes in Rwanda. She top scored with 6 goals in the last CECAFA Women Championship.The Ladies are enjoying every moment in training. L-R Nassuuna, Ritah Nabossa and Winnie Babirye
Players in camp
Goalkeepers: Nakaziro Daisy (Muteesa I Royal University, Nakiguba Cissy (Kampala Queens), Ruth Aturo (UCU Lady Cardinals)
Outfield players: Namuddu Viola (She Mak),Nabisaalu Bridget ((Ajax Queens), Rita Nabossa (Gokelum Kelara-India), Phiona Nabbumba (Ajax Queens), Tracy Akiror Jones (Kawempe Muslim), Winnie Babirye (Kampala Queens), Mutuzo Lilian (Taggy High School) ,Shakira Mutiibwa (Gafford Ladies), Sheebah Zalwango (Gafford Ladies), Hasifah Nassuuna (UCU Lady Cardinals), Fazilah Ikwaput (Gokelum Kelara-India), Favour Nambatya,(Muteesa I Royal University), Namwase Monica(Gafford Ladies), Nakitto Gladys (Kampala Queens), Spencer Nakachwa(Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga), Shadia Nakya (Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga), Jean Sseninde (Crystal Palace Ladies), Mwajuma Namukwase ( Isra Academy) and Laki Otandeka (Match Fit Chelsea -USA), Naluyimba Esther (Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga), Margaret Birabwa (Mutesa I Royal Univeristy), Joyce Nakakooza (Kampala Queens)
Head Coach- Faridah Bulega
Asst Coach-Edward Kaziba
Goalkeeping Coach- James Magala
Fitness trainer- Oliver Mbekeka
Media Officer-Hamza Nsereko Afriqana
Team Doctor -Mable Katabalindwa
Kits manager –Daisy Nalwadda
MAIN PHOTO: Stylish midfielder Tracy Jones Akiror with the ball during training. Akiror is in great form ahead of the CECAFA Championship.
Kampala Queens made the play offs of the FUFA Women Elite League for the first time. A 3-0 home win over Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga was just enough to cement Kampala Queens’ 2nd spot in the table standings with 28 points. in Elizabeth Group. Olila topped the group with 30 points.
Kawempe will be seeking a 4th straight League title.
Gafford Ladies are also back in the playoffs following a narrow 1-0 away win over defending Champions Kawempe Muslim women FC. Gafford finished in 2nd place with 23 points while Kwempe will head into the playoffs as the top team with 29 points. Gafford remains the only team to inflict a loss to Kawempe in the league since its inception in 2015. They have beaten Kawempe on two occassions now in the league. This was Kawempe’s only loss in the season.
Despite the loss, Kawempe will be seeking a 4th straight title while Olila are looking at improving on their 4th place last season in the playoffs.
Olila Women are in the playoffs for the 2nd successive season
Meanwhile 4 teams will be relegated at the end of the season while 4 will be promoted to the FUFA Women Elite League.
The Conquerors of Kawempe Muslim Women-Gafford Ladies are back in the playoffs.
Full results from the Grand Finale of matches in the regular season of the FUFA Women Elite League.
The Uganda National women’s football team the Crested Cranes has kicked off preparations for the CECAFA Women Championship due in Rwanda from 12th-20th May, 2018.
20 of the 28 summoned players reported for the Tuesday double training session at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The first three-hour morning session started from 9am-12pm and the last session from 3-5pm.
After the training, the team’s head coach Faridah Bulega told www.fufa.co.ug that eight of her players haven’t reported but she is hopeful they will join any time.
Crested Cranes players during training at Namboole
‘I’m missing eight of my players because of the academic engagements, I received communications from them and I allowed them time to concentrate as I will receive them after their exams’ said Bulega
She added that the team will conduct double nonresidential sessions up to Thursday 3rd May 2018 when she will release the players to their respective clubs.
Training continues on Tuesday 2nd May 2018 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Stretching for fitness at Namboole
Players who attended the Tuesday double sessions
Goalkeepers: Nakazilo Daisy (Muteesa I Royal University), Namakula Gloria (Ajax Queens), Nakiguba Cissy (Kampala Queens), Ruth Aturo, (UCU Lady Cardinals)
Hasifah Nassuuna and Maureen Kinavudoli were on target as UCU Lady Cardinals booked a quarter-final berth following a 2-0 away win over Gafford Ladies in Kanyanya on Sunday.
UCU who lost to Olila High school last season at the semifinal stage want to have an improved show this year.
“Let us see what happens as the tournament progresses. We are playing well in the league and still on course with our targets’ said Nassuuna.
Full time results from the weekend FUFA Women’s Cup round of 16
She Corporates 2-1 Isra Soccer Academy
Western United 2-1 Lady Doves
She MAK 0-2 Olila Women
Bright Light 1-3 Bugiri Town View
Muteesa I Royal Univeristy 0 (4)-0 (3) Ajax Queens
Kampala Queens 1-2 Kawempe Muslim
Gafford Ladies 0-2 UCU Lady Cardinals
Taggy High School-Uganda Martyrs (Not played)
The date for the draw for round of 8 (Quarterfinals will be communicated soon)
Muteesa I Royal University Vs Ajax Queens FC-Wankulukuku
Makerere University Vs Olila Women – Makerere
Gafford Ladies Vs – UCU Lady Cardinals- Kanyanya
Games will be played on 21st and 22nd April 2018
Olila won the FUFA Women’s Cup in 2017
A total of five fixtures involving teams playing in the FUFA Women Elite League will be played at the round of 16 of the FUFA Women Cup.
In the round of 16 draws held on Thursday at the FUFA headquarters in Mengo, ten of the twelve elite teams still in the competition will face off.
Holders Olila High School from Soroti will visit She Makerere University.
Makerere eliminated Rines WFC in the preliminary round while Olila got a bye at that stage.
Last season’s runners up Gafford Ladies will host UCU Lady Cardinals in Kanyanya while Isra Academy will make the trip to Nakawa to face She Corporate.
John Baptist Semujju of Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga picked Olila Women FC from the pot
The other highly anticipated clashes will see Kampala Queens taking on Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC at Villa Park while Muteesa I Royal University will face Ajax Queens FC in a renewal of acquaintances.
Both Ajax Queens FC and Muteesa I Royal University are in Victoria group of the FUFA Women Elite League and the former has won the league encounters on with a 1-0 identical score.
Bright Light SS from Lira who got a walkover against KJT Ladies will play Bugiri Town SS from Eastern region.
Buganda regional league team Taggy High School will host Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga while Western United will be at home to Lady Doves from Masindi.
Ayub Khalifan drew Ajax Queens from the pot
It should be noted that teams which reached the quarterfinals of last year’s edition got a bye at the preliminary round and will all start their campaign at the round of 16.
These include; Olila High School, Gafford Ladies, Muteesa I Royal University, UCU Lady Cardinals, Western United,Kawempe Muslim,She Corporate and Taggy High School.
FUFA competitions committee Director, Aisha Nalule confirmed that the fixtures will be played on 21st and 22nd April 2018.
Hamid Juma, the FUFA competitions committee chairman indicated that the Federation is committed towards developing Women Football in the country.
FUFA Competitions Director Hajati Aisha Nalule deliberated on the rules and regulations of the competition at this stage
“’As FUFA we are committed towards developing Women’s Football in the country. We believe that through increased competition the quality of our players will improve’ said Juma
Olila Women FC won the inaugural edition last year defeating Gafford Ladies in the final on kicks from the penalty mark after 1-1 draw in normal time at Madibira playground in Busia.
This year’s final will be played in Kasese on a date yet to be confirmed.
MAIN PHOTO: Ajax Queens Director Kayemba Charles Lwanga was part of the draw at FUFA House
FUFA has confirmed that a special function with Buganda Kingdom will be held tomorrow (Tuesday 10th April, 2018) in Lugazi aimed at developing football in the country.
In a communication inviting the sports media, the FUFA Communications Manager Ahmed Hussein confirmed the event.
‘In a bid to develop football in Uganda, FUFA and Buganda Kingdom will celebrate a moment that is in line with the FUFA Development strategy’ said Hussein.
Hussein also confirmed that the function will be graced by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo and the Katikkiro of Buganda Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga.
The media has also been invited for the function that starts at 11am.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo has commended the performance of the National Women football team Crested Cranes in their double header clash against the Harambee Starlets of Kenya.
The spirited display by the Crested Cranes saw the FUFA President release a detailed programme of what is in stock for the players.
FUFA President wants to see the Crested become a regional power house just like the Uganda Cranes (male team).
The FUFA Pesident made the commendations at a post-match dinner organized at Kati Kati restaurant to appreciate the team.
The Crested Cranes played to a goalless draw against the Harambee Starlets on Sunday at the Star Times stadium a result that saw them eliminated at the first round stage of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations Qualifier Ghana 2018 on a 1-0 aggregate.
The Crested Cranes lost the first leg in Machakos.
FUFA President’s statement
‘I wish to congratulate everyone involved right from my Executive, the staff at FUFA, the coaches, players and the fans for the impressive performance. It is true we have been eliminated from the Women African Cup of Nations qualifiers but I must mention that knowing where we are coming from, we are very much proud by the performance exhibited.’
‘In 2013 we made an unpopular decision to withdraw the team that had won against South Sudan by 22 goals. This was because we realized we didn’t have a proper National team, we were not yet there in terms of strength’
FUFA President at the dinner on Sunday addressing the Crested Cranes players and Team officials
‘We decided to start the league (FUFA Women Elite League), the cup (FUFA Women’s cup) and the rest of the things we are doing that have increased access for the girls to play football week in-week out. Today we are proud that a national team can be generated’
‘At the end of last year we decided that now it was time to get back to the continent and we were drawn against Kenya which has been so many miles ahead of us in terms of women football. Last year they were at the AWCON finals playing amongst the top 8 teams on the continent. Last week they were in Zambia for a friendly and won 3-0 so really they have been a much stronger opposition but we were only separated by a stroke of luck and I am thinking that as a country we must be very proud of the progress we are making’
FUFA’s Strategy on women football
The FUFA President further reiterated to the players what FUFA’s strategy about women football.
‘We have a strategy as far as women football is concerned. We did not only create the competitions, we also allowed more women representation in football administration. If you were aware before we could have zero women in the General Assembly which is the Parliament of football in Uganda. Today we can have a minimum of 4 and as I speak now I think we have more than 4, when it comes to the awards at the end of the year the top female player just like the male player gets a car. All these are initiatives to ensure that women football in this country grows and gets better’
FUFA President is confident the Crested Cranes will soon become a force to reckon with in women football in the region.
This year we have engaged in international tournaments, we are going to take part in CECAFA Women championship in a period of less than a month. Rwanda is organizing the tournament and now I have the belief we can go and compete for the Championship.
As the Federation we shall continue to facilitate the team (Crested Cranes), the conditions may not be the best but I promise you the team will get better with time. We must put this game out there for people to buy it so that people start giving it priority and consideration. It is still a challenge to convince everybody that we have a National women team, a league and maybe a girl who plays football just like a man. This is slowly changing, on social media the talk has been about the National team going to play.
Regional tours and international games lined up
The FUFA strategy has put in plan regional tours for the Crested Cranes.
‘At a later moment we shall be engaging the National team to go to the different regions to play games to sell the team as people get to know you’
‘We are going to be engaged in some international friendlies. It is part of our strategy and has been written down and allocated resources. We don’t gamble with the things we do. Whatever we have talked about for those who have followed us we deliver’
‘Our objective is to play some international games, not only in Africa but maybe as far as Europe. What is important now is if you are privileged to be called and be putting on the National jersey just understand that it is a privilege because there are thousands of girls who would have wanted to be here so just thank God, use it with both hands and continue working hard’
Players like Zainah Namuleme (R) will be given chance to traverse the country on regional tours to promote women football
‘You can only get better by working hard or even harder. Women football has taken off and now we have seen some of our own going to play professional. We want to see you earn money out of playing football and what FUFA has so far done is providing you with a platform to play’
On behalf of her teammates, skipper Hasifa Nassuuna thanked the FUFA President, Executive and FUFA staff for the opportunity given to them to play in an international competition regretting their inability to go as far as they could have wished but promised to do better in future engagements.
Crested Cranes will be entered in future international competitions. The CECAFA tournament in Rwanda next month for women will give the players more exposure.Crested Cranes skipper Hasifah Nassuuna delivering her speech during the dinner
‘I apologize on behalf of the players for failing to eject Kenya. We promise to bounce back better next time. Keep giving us the opportunity to play international football’ said Nassuuna.
Hasifah Nassuuna (L) was disappointed that her team never progressed but promised to improve for better results.
The dinner was attended by the two FUFA Vice Presidents Justus Mugisha (1st VP), Darius Mugoye (2nd VP), Executive Members-Agnes Mugena (Chairperson FUFA Women football Committee), Hamid Juma (Chairman FUFA Competitions Committee), Ronnie Kalema (Chairman Uganda Football Referees Committee), Chris Kalibbala (Chairman FUFA Football Development Committee), Rogers Byamukama (Chairman FUFA Marketing and Communications Committee), Edgar Watson (FUFA CEO), Margaret Kubingi (Chairperson Uganda Women Football Association) and Rosebell Rwamuyamba (Woman Referee Delegate to the FUFA Assembly).
The entire Crested Cranes Technical team and players also attended the dinner.
MAIN PHOTO: The FUFA President inspecting teams before kick off of the Uganda vs Kenya match at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
Total Africa Women Cup of Nations qualifier-Ghana 2018
Uganda 0-0 Kenya (Kenya qualified 1-0 aggregate)
Crested Cranes players passionately sing the national anthem prior to kick off
Crested Cranes has painfully bowed out of Total Africa Women Cup of Nations qualifiers after a goal-less draw with Kenya during the return leg of the preliminary first round at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo on Sunday.
From the onset, a well charged and determined Crested Cranes team looked set for the mission at hand, defending and attacking in numbers.
Captain Hasifa Nassuna, her striking partner Juliet Nalukenge troubled the Kenyan back line at all times.
Action between Crested Cranes and Kenya at Lugogo
Nassuna’s well taken second half free-kick near the 18 yard box was stopped by the goalkeeper Maureen Shimuli with less than a quarter an hour of action.
Uganda’s goalkeeper Ruth Aturo was alert throughout the game denying Kenya’s Carloyne Anyango, Neddy Atieno Okoth and Vivian Aquino Carzone.
Officials inspect the two teams before kick off
The Crested Cranes technical team called for all the three changes in the game.
Spencer Nakacwa replaced Zaina Namuleme at the start of the second half.
12 minutes later, Asia Nakibuuka paved way for Winnie Babirye and holding midfielder Tracy Jones Akiror’s place was taken over by Phiona Nabbumba as Uganda pushed for numbers upfront.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents Justus Mugisha and Darius Mugoye respectively, Agnes Mugena, (Executive Committee member) were part of the fair crowd that attended the game.
Kenya thus qualified 1-0 on aggregate over the two legs and will play against Equatorial Guinea in the first round.
