Tag: Uganda

CHAN 2025: Historic Co-Hosting by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania

Post author By seo-team
Post date May 17, 2025

Home » Uganda

CHAN 2025: Historic Co-Hosting by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania

A New Era for African Football

The upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN 2025) exceeds the level of a regular tournament. The hosting arrangement for CHAN 2025 between Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania marks an ambitious step toward regional collaboration. The tournament will be the first multination continental football event when East African nations Kenya Uganda and Tanzania join forces in August 2025. The preparations for the event are moving at a rapid pace while the host countries upgrade their infrastructure and work on regional visa integration.

CAF Commits to Joint Hosting

The CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba conducted a virtual meeting, which sports officials from the three countries used to show their readiness. The conference exceeded its administrative purpose because it held symbolic value. The meeting introduced a new approach for African nations to organize their participation in major sporting events.

CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba declared that the organization fully supports Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to create an exceptional outcome from their joint historic bid.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) stressed the immediate need to verify the tournament locations so its inspection teams can start venue preparations.

Key Decisions Await Finalization

The recent interministerial conference had the essential goal of determining the locations for opening and closing ceremonies together with the 1st, 2nd and 3rd-place playoffs. The matches that will draw the most spectators and TV viewers require priority planning since they represent the key to tournament success.

Kenya’s All-In Approach

The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy and Sports Hon. Salim Mvurya confirmed Kenya’s dedication to the tournament.

“The country has already paid for CHAN hosting rights according to the official. The facilities designated for use comply with all necessary standards and are prepared to handle the extensive operational needs of this international tournament”.

The Kenyan preparation strategy involves cooperation between multiple government agencies. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) brings together multiple government departments, including transport and infrastructure and tourism departments. The hosting model of CHAN draw this year serves as a foundation for the current event.

Uganda Emphasizes Unity

The Minister of State for Sports of Uganda Hon. Peter Ogwang stated from Kampala:

“Our dedication extends past infrastructure development. The East African nations have reached a moment to demonstrate their unity through a shared mission of regional success.”

Uganda has dedicated resources to restructure stadiums and train facilities as part of its dual strategy for developing domestic football leagues and youth programs.

Tanzania Echoes the Sentiment

Hon. Hamisi Mwinjuma, the Deputy Minister for Culture Arts and Sports of Tanzania delivered a message about the unified spirit of the region:

“We are co-authors and co-hosts who are writing a fresh page in African football.”

The Tanzanian government has developed plans, which include enhanced stadium security and better transportation links to stadiums and a media approach to promote East African football across the tournament.

The PAMOJA Visa: A Game-Changer

A new visa proposal known as PAMOJA Visa stands out as an exciting development. A special visa named PAMOJA draws its name from the Swahili word, which means “together” to allow fans along with teams and officials to travel without restrictions between the three host countries throughout the tournament.

The PAMOJA Visa would achieve three main benefits if it receives approval:

Simplify travel logistics
Increase regional tourism
Set a precedent for future joint-hosting arrangements

The visa would function identically to the European Schengen Visa by establishing a unified travel authorization that enables movement between multiple countries.

Infrastructure Developments Across East Africa

Every country participating in hosting events has dedicated significant financial resources to sports and transportation infrastructure improvements.

Kenya

Nairobi and Eldoret stadiums are undergoing final inspections.
The urban transportation network receives improvements to enhance its ability to handle rising traffic volumes.
Hotels located near tournament sites undergo renovation and gain safety certification as part of the process.

Uganda

The Mandela National Stadium reaches its completion stage following extensive reconstruction work.
The government has made road improvements in sports areas to boost accessibility.
More than 1,000 volunteers are being trained by the LOC.

Tanzania

Dar es Salaam and Arusha are central to Tanzania’s hosting plans.
The investments include stadium lighting and broadcast facilities.
New rail connections are being tested for inter-city fan travel.

Boosting the Local Economy

The region will receive substantial economic advantages because CHAN 2025 will attract numerous fans throughout the region. The tourism industry together with hospitality services and transportation networks are prepared to capitalize on the projected business growth.

Economists suggest that:

Hotel bookings could increase by up to 45%
The local food and merchandise vendors expect their revenue to double during this period
The event staffing and hospitality sectors will experience a short-term rise in employment numbers

Security & Safety: A Regional Priority

CAF has stressed the need for integrated safety measures. The hosting nations are currently working on a unified security approach, which includes:

Border screening coordination
Joint emergency response plans
Stadium crowd control measures

The security strategy follows the same pattern as that used during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa but on a smaller scale.

Media Coverage and Fan Engagement

Organizers are planning:

A regional TV broadcast deal to cover all matches
Mobile apps for ticketing, travel, and live updates
Fan zones in major cities across the three countries

These measures are designed to improve fan satisfaction and to get the tournament more in touch with the public.

CHAN 2025: More Than Just a Tournament

CHAN traditionally has a focus on African players, but CHAN 2025 is likely to be a larger cultural event. Other than the football, there are plans for:

Pan-African music festivals
Regional art exhibitions
Cultural exchange programs for youth

This comprehensive approach might result in a lasting legacy, which could help unite and foster appreciation between African nations.

What’s Next?

The next 90 days are crucial. CAF is now waiting for the final confirmations on the venues, security plans and travel logistics. The local organizing committees have to meet the tight timelines to avoid last minute complications.

Another coordination meeting has been scheduled by CAF in July 2025 to check on the progress. All three countries will be required to submit their readiness status reports.

Beyond the Pitch: The True Impact of CHAN 2025

CHAN 2025 is not just about football, it’s about East Africa showing what’s possible through collaboration. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have an opportunity to set a new standard for regional cooperation, fan experience, and football development.

The tournament is shaping up to be a landmark moment not just for the sport, but also for the continent, with the PAMOJA Visa, coordinated infrastructure upgrades, and shared goals.

Tags CHAN 2025, Uganda

Football

AFCON 2027 Uganda Preparations: Inside the Shs257B Race to Host Africa’s Biggest Tournament

Post author By seo-team
Post date April 4, 2025

Home » Uganda

AFCON 2027 Uganda Preparations: Inside the Shs257B Race to Host Africa’s Biggest Tournament

On Wednesday evening, Parliament wrapped up a plenary session with the approval of a Shs4.2 trillion supplementary budget. Among the most significant allocations was the Shs257.155 billion earmarked specifically for AFCON 2027 Uganda preparations.

The supplementary funding, tabled earlier in the week and processed in under 48 hours, will be channeled through the National Council of Sports (NCS). According to Finance Junior Minister Henry Musasizi, the funds will support:

Completion of Hoima City Stadium
Construction of the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium
Upgrading approved training facilities nationwide
Operational expenses for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), a precursor to AFCON

Stadium Projects and Their Budgets

State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang disclosed the cost estimates of two flagship stadiums:

Akii Bua Olympic Stadium: Shs505 billion
Hoima City Stadium: Shs510 billion

While Shs257 billion has been secured through the current supplementary budget, Ogwang assured Parliament that the remaining funds have already been allocated in the forthcoming 2025/26 national budget, which is under review. “We will not come here to ask for another supplementary,” he emphasized.

Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) Gets a Boost

In a parallel development, Shs87.845 billion has been designated for continued upgrades to Mandela National Stadium, commonly known as Namboole. This allocation is channeled through the Ministry of Education and Sports.

This latest boost supplements the Shs97.90 billion released in April 2024 for Phase One renovations led by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Turkish construction firm Summa is now expected to spearhead Phase Two. Planned upgrades include:

Demolishing the western roof section to revamp VIP seating
Relocating dressing rooms and media centers from the eastern to the western wing

Political Pushback and Budget Scrutiny

Despite widespread support for the funding, Parliament did not convene without discord. Shadow Finance Minister Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda and Sheema Municipality MP Dickson Kateshumbwa criticized the government for consistently relying on supplementary budgets to finance crucial projects.

Kateshumbwa pointedly remarked, “There has been a persistent occurrence of items that would appear to be provided for in the normal budget. But they don’t find space and come in the supplementary.”

In response, Minister Musasizi defended the urgency, explaining that certain essential projects often miss initial funding allocations due to budgetary constraints. “Some items remain unfunded and cannot be avoided during execution. We take them through this window,” he stated.

Speed vs. Strategy: Budget Approval in Record Time

The express passage of the supplementary budget has sparked debate about the robustness of parliamentary oversight. Bernard Ogwel, head of the NCS, was allotted only 15 minutes to defend the full suite of AFCON-related projects. The Budget Committee, chaired in interim by MP Kateshumbwa, deliberated and reported within the same day.

Though some critics see it as premature, others say it shows Uganda’s need to match the logistical requirements of holding a continental football event. Uganda has a reputational and logistical challenge given Kenya and Tanzania as co-hosts.

Uganda’s AFCON Vision: Infrastructure, Opportunity, and National Pride

AFCON 2027 is viewed as a driver for more general economic and social growth outside the stadiums. Part of the government’s more general strategic objective is enhanced infrastructure, tourist increases, and youth involvement via sport. The competition gives Uganda a unique opportunity to show itself as a competent and ambitious host on the continental level.

Still, questions linger. Will the funds be managed with transparency? Will the construction timelines be met without compromising quality? And can Uganda leverage the tournament beyond the 90-minute matches?

Regional Synergy: Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania Co-hosting AFCON 2027

Uganda is not on this journey by itself. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are committed to jointly carry out AFCON 2027 as part of an unprecedented tri-nation host bid. This approach of regional co-hosting provides many possibilities for diplomatic unity, regional branding, and cross-border infrastructural growth.

Uganda’s neighbors’ cooperation is essential. Transport connections—including roads and regional airports—must be improved to enable smooth movement of teams, fans, and officials. There are also hopes for coordinated security policies and communication plans to guarantee the event runs successfully across borders.

In East Africa, where regional integration under blocs like the East African Community (EAC) has long been championed, this tournament could become a real-world example of unity through sport. Government officials from the three nations have pledged to hold joint planning sessions and pool resources, but actual implementation will be the true test of this vision.

Community Engagement: Beyond Stadiums to Grassroots Impact

While the spotlight shines on stadiums, experts argue that Uganda must use AFCON 2027 as a springboard for more inclusive development. Building community-based sports programs, nurturing local talent, and upgrading smaller pitches and recreational facilities are some of the initiatives civil society organizations are advocating for.

There’s growing sentiment that AFCON shouldn’t be a top-down spectacle, but rather a bottom-up movement. Schools, universities, and local sports clubs could serve as training centers and fan zones, further embedding the tournament’s legacy into Uganda’s social fabric.

Engaging communities early will not only foster national pride but also encourage grassroots ownership of the tournament. Such efforts could create a generation of young Ugandans who see sport not just as entertainment but as opportunity.

What’s Next for Uganda’s AFCON 2027 Journey?

With the remaining funds for Akii Bua and Hoima stadiums reportedly secured, all eyes are on the 2025/26 national budget as preparations get more serious. The Ministry of Education and Sports is anticipated to shortly release its Ministerial Policy Statement, which will provide more in-depth analysis of Uganda’s road plan.

In the meantime, Uganda’s swift parliamentary action signals intent. But intent must now translate into timely execution, inter-agency coordination, and the upholding of CAF standards. The race to AFCON 2027 has begun—and Uganda’s performance off the pitch will matter just as much as the action on it.

Tags AFCON 2027, Uganda

Football

7th Juniors League 2025: Uganda’s Youth Football Revolution Begins

Post author By seo-team
Post date February 7, 2025

Home » Uganda

7th Juniors League 2025: Uganda’s Youth Football Revolution Begins

The 7th Juniors League is not just another tournament—it’s Uganda’s blueprint for nurturing future football legends. Announced by FUFA to kick off on Saturday, February 8, 2025, this edition blends competitive rigor with strategic talent development. With 16 elite junior teams, mandatory participation from Premier League clubs, and direct ties to AFCON U17 preparations, this league is a game-changer.

Let’s explore every detail, from squad rules to Uganda’s continental ambitions, and why this tournament is a must-watch for fans and scouts alike.

Why the 7th Juniors League 2025 Matters

Before diving into specifics, let’s unpack the league’s significance:

Talent Pipeline: Identifies stars for Uganda’s U17 (Cubs) team ahead of AFCON.
Mandatory Participation: All Premier League clubs must field junior teams, ensuring nationwide talent representation.
Age-Specific Development: Structured squads (2007–2010-born players) balance experience and youth.
Continental Strategy: FUFA explicitly links this league to AFCON U17 success.

In short, this isn’t just about matches—it’s about building Uganda’s football future.

Key Dates & Tournament Format

Start Date: February 8, 2025

The league launches with a round-based format across three phases:

Group Stage: Teams compete within the Treble and Hat-trick groups.
Knockout Rounds: Top teams from each group advance to quarterfinals.
Finals: Championship match determines the 2025 champion.

FUFA’s Competitions Department confirms the format maximizes competitive exposure, ensuring players face diverse tactical challenges.

Treble vs. Hat-trick Groups: Team Breakdown & Rivalries

The 16 teams are split into two groups of eight. Here’s a closer look:

Treble Group: Powerhouses & Dark Horses

KCCA FC JT: Known for technical flair and academy pedigree.
Vipers SC JT: Aggressive playstyle mirroring their senior team.
UPDF FC JT: Strong defensive discipline.
Mbarara City FC JT: Rising stars from western Uganda.
Soana Bright Stars, URA FC JT, Wakiso Giants FC JT, Kitara FC JT: Teams with untapped potential aiming to upset favorites.

Key Matchup: KCCA FC JT vs. Vipers SC JT—a clash of styles and pride.

Hat-trick Group: Underdogs & Legacy Clubs

SC Villa JT: Historic club with a legacy of producing national team players.
Express FC JT: Fast-paced attacking football.
Police FC JT: Physicality and set-piece mastery.
Mbale Heroes FC JT: Eastern Uganda’s grassroots heroes.
NEC FC JT, Maroons FC JT, Lugazi FC JT, BUL FC JT: Teams hungry to prove their mettle.

Key Matchup: SC Villa JT vs. Express FC JT—a battle of tradition vs. innovation.

Squad Rules: Age Brackets & Strategic Registration

To qualify, clubs must register 25 players under strict age guidelines:

Age Category	Players Required	Goalkeeper Mandate
Born in 2007	5 players	At least 1 goalkeeper
Born in 2008–2009	15 players	At least 1 goalkeeper
Born in 2010	5 players	At least 1 goalkeeper

Why This Works:

Experience Meets Youth: Older players (2007) mentor younger teammates (2010).
Position Specialization: Goalkeeper mandates ensure depth in critical roles.
AFCON Readiness: Prepares 2008–2009-born players for U17 eligibility.

How the League Prepares Uganda for AFCON U17?

Bashir Mutyaba, FUFA Youth Football Development Manager, explains:

“The 7th Juniors League simulates AFCON-level pressure. Players learn to adapt to high-stakes scenarios, while coaches assess tactical maturity. For instance, a midfielder’s decision-making in the Treble Group could determine their spot in the Cubs’ starting lineup.”

4 Ways the League Boosts AFCON Chances:

Scouting Hub: National team coaches attend matches to identify standouts.
Tactical Diversity: Facing varied playstyles (e.g., Vipers’ aggression vs. UPDF’s defense) builds adaptability.
Fitness Benchmark: Three-round format tests endurance, mirroring AFCON’s schedule.
Leadership Development: Captains from each team train under FUFA leadership workshops.

Fan Guide: How to Watch & Support

Match Venues

All games will occur at FUFA-approved stadiums, including:

Nakivubo Stadium (Kampala): Hosts Treble Group matches.
Mbale Municipal Stadium: Home to Hat-trick Group clashes.

Why This League Shapes Uganda’s Football Future

The 7th Juniors League 2025 is more than a tournament—it’s a national project. By blending competitive structure with AFCON-focused development, FUFA ensures Uganda’s youth aren’t just playing football; they’re preparing to conquer continents.

From tactical battles in the Treble Group to grassroots heroes in Mbale, every pass, tackle, and goal writes a new chapter in Ugandan football.

Beyond 2025: The Long-Term Vision for Uganda’s Youth Football

The 7th Juniors League 2025 is just the beginning. FUFA’s commitment extends far beyond this edition, with plans to expand the league’s reach and impact. By 2030, the federation aims to:

Double Participation: Include junior teams from regional leagues, creating a nationwide talent net.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Build youth-focused training centers in Mbale, Gulu, and Mbarara to support player development.
International Exposure: Partner with European and African academies for exchange programs, giving Ugandan teens global experience.

Community Impact: How the League Unites Uganda

Football transcends sport in Uganda—it’s a cultural unifier. The 7th Juniors League 2025 amplifies this by:

Empowering Regions: Clubs like Mbale Heroes FC JT and Mbarara City FC JT give eastern and western Uganda a platform to shine.
Inspiring Grassroots: Free coaching clinics in host cities (Kampala, Mbale) will engage thousand kids annually.
Economic Boost: Matchday revenue supports local vendors, while increased tourism benefits hotels and transport services.

Uganda’s Football Future Needs You

The 7th Juniors League 2025 isn’t just FUFA’s responsibility—it’s a collective mission. Here’s how you can contribute:

Coaches: Volunteer at regional scouting camps.
Schools: Host viewing parties to inspire students.
Media: Spotlight unsung heroes like defenders and playmakers.

Together, we can turn Uganda into Africa’s youth football powerhouse.

Final Thought: A Legacy in the Making

From the bustling streets of Kampala to the lush hills of Mbale, the 7th Juniors League 2025 ignites dreams. Every dribble, save, and goal isn’t just a moment—it’s a step toward Uganda lifting the AFCON U17 trophy. As the February 8 kickoff approaches, remember: today’s juniors are tomorrow’s legends.

Don’t miss a second! Bookmark FUFA’s schedule page, set match reminders, and join Uganda’s journey to football greatness. The future starts now—be part of it!

Tags 7th Juniors League, Uganda

Football

AFCON 2025: Can Uganda Make History on the Big Stage?

Post author By seo-team
Post date February 7, 2025

Home » Uganda

AFCON 2025: Can Uganda Make History on the Big Stage?

Uganda’s AFCON 2025: The qualification of Uganda for AFCON 2025 has renewed a countrywide craze for soccer in the country. Uganda national team comes back to AFCON for the first time in six years for AFCON 2025, scheduled for December 21 through January 18, 2026, in Morocco.

How will the Cranes perform in this high-stakes tournament? We will explore the Cranes’ historical background alongside their group stage obstacles together with key players and betting possibilities.

Uganda’s AFCON History: From 1978 Glory to Modern Struggles

The history of Uganda at AFCON includes both victories and defeats. Uganda’s 1978 AFCON performance is most memorable in that it won a runners-up position with a win over Nigeria in the semifinal stage. The Cranes defeated Ghana in group play, then went on to achieve a historic 2-1 triumph over Nigeria in the semifinal and a 2-0 victory over Ghana.

sReaching the 2019 Round of 16, the Uganda national soccer team performed their best since almost ten years ago. With a 2-0 score, the team headed under Sébastien Desabre overcame DR Congo, then finished their game against Zimbabwe in a 1-1 draw guaranteeing their advancement to the next level of play. Egypt defeated them 2-0 and Senegal beat them barely 1-0 during the knockout stage events, therefore ending their season.

Key Stats:

8th AFCON appearance (first since 2019)
1978 runners-up; 2019 Round of 16
3 wins in last 5 AFCON matches
16 goals conceded in 5 games vs. Tunisia (Uganda’s Achilles’ heel)

With automatic qualification as co-hosts for AFCON 2027, Uganda aims to build momentum in 2025. But Group C—featuring Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania—promises no easy path.

Group C Breakdown: Africa’s “Group of Death”

Uganda landed in Group C alongside three-time champions Nigeria, 2004 winners Tunisia, and East African rivals Tanzania. Here’s why this group could dominate headlines:

Nigeria: A Star-Studded Challenge

Head-to-Head:Uganda holds 4 victories and 2 losses in addition to 2 draws against Nigeria.
History:The 1978 semi-final triumph of Uganda against Nigeria remains a legendary event but Nigeria’s team in 2025 includes Victor Osimhen from Napoli along with Ademola Lookman from Atalanta and Alex Iwobi from Fulham.
Key Match:The December 30 match between the teams will determine their knockout round destiny. The offensive strength of Nigeria shows a stark difference when compared to Uganda’s defensive toughness.

Tunisia: Uganda’s Kryptonite

Head-to-Head:Tunisia has won all 5 meetings, including a brutal 6-0 qualifier thrashing in 2000.
Tactics:Tunisian counterattacks and set-pieces have historically overwhelmed Uganda. Coach Jalel Kadri’s 4-3-3 system prioritizes pace on the wings, a weakness Uganda must address.
Key Player:Youssef Msakni (Al-Arabi) – The veteran forward has scored 4 goals against Uganda.

Tanzania: East African Derby Drama

Head-to-Head:Uganda leads 33-13 (15 draws), but recent qualifiers split 1-1.
Rivalry:The December 27 derby will be electric. Tanzania’s Taifa Stars, led by striker Mbwana Samatta, aim to exploit Uganda’s high defensive line.
X-Factor:Tanzania’s interim coach Hemed Morocco emphasizes pressing—a style Uganda struggled against in 2023 qualifiers.

Group Prediction: Nigeria and Tunisia are favorites, but Uganda’s recent form (3 straight wins) could spring surprises. A win against Tanzania and a draw vs. Tunisia might secure 3rd place.

Uganda’s Squad: Key Players to Watch

Coach Paul Joseph Put’s squad blends experience and youth. Here are the stars who could shine:

Khalid Aucho (Captain, Midfielder): The 31-year-old anchors midfield with tenacity and leadership. His duel with Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi will be pivotal.
Denis Omedi (Striker): APR Rwanda’s goal machine (12 goals in 2024) aims to replicate 2019 heroics. His aerial prowess could trouble Tunisia’s defense.
Allan Okello (Playmaker): The 24-year-old creative maestro, recently signed by Pyramids FC, eyes a breakout tournament. His dribbling vs. Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey is a must-watch.
Isma Watenga (Goalkeeper): Mamelodi Sundowns’ shot-stopper is crucial against Nigeria’s attack. His reflexes saved Uganda in 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Coach’s Take: “The stronger the wave, the stronger the ship,” says Put. “We’re ready for this challenge. Our focus is tactical discipline and exploiting set-pieces.”

Road to Morocco: World Cup Qualifiers as Preparation

Before AFCON, Uganda faces critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Algeria (March 2025), Mozambique, and Botswana. Strong performances here could:

Boost squad confidence: Wins against higher-ranked teams like Algeria would signal readiness.
Refine tactics: Testing a 3-5-2 formation against Guinea’s physicality could reveal weaknesses.
Attract betting interest: Uganda’s odds for AFCON dark horse status may shorten with qualifier success.

Key Fixture: Uganda vs. Algeria (June 2025) – A litmus test for Watenga’s goalkeeping and Aucho’s midfield control.

Uganda’s AFCON 2025 Schedule: Mark Your Calendar

December 23: vs. Tunisia (Crucial opener in Marrakech – avoid early defeat)
December 27: vs. Tanzania (Derby showdown in Agadir – must-win game)
December 30: vs. Nigeria (Group finale in Casablanca – defensive resilience key)

A win against Tunisia or Tanzania could propel Uganda into the knockouts. Finishing 3rd might still advance them, depending on other groups.

Tactical Analysis: How Uganda Can Survive Group C

Defensive Solidity: A backline of Halid Lwaliwa and Bevis Mugabi must limit errors. Tunisia and Nigeria thrive on capitalizing on defensive lapses.
Midfield Battle: Aucho and Bobosi Byaruhanga must disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm. Winning 50-50 duels is non-negotiable.
Counterattacking Threat: Omedi’s pace and Okello’s vision could punish Tunisia’s high line.

Weakness to Address: Uganda’s full-backs often get caught forward, leaving space for wingers like Lookman.

Fan Impact: The 12th Man in Morocco

Uganda’s passionate fans, known as “The 12th Crane,” will travel in numbers. Their support in 2019 boosted morale during the Egypt defeat. Expect vibrant displays in Marrakech and Casablanca, with local betting shops offering special promotions for Ugandan supporters.

Will Uganda Make History Again?

The return of Uganda to the AFCON matches a comeback with an opportunity to motivate their nation. A devoted fan base alongside a revitalized team and intense rivalries position the Cranes for their ascension. While progression from Group C seems daunting, football’s unpredictability could favor the underdogs.

Join the Journey: Follow Uganda’s AFCON 2025 campaign for drama, goals, and unforgettable moments!

Tags AFCON 2025, Uganda

Football

Uganda vs Namibia U-17 Qualifiers: Uganda’s Record-Breaking Victory

Post author By seo-team
Post date January 22, 2025

Home » Uganda

Uganda vs Namibia U-17 Qualifiers: Uganda’s Record-Breaking Victory

Uganda vs Namibia U-17 Qualifiers: The U-17 women’s national team from Uganda demolished Namibia 10-0 during the first leg of FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup Qualifiers. The win at Hamz Stadium in Kampala demonstrated Uganda’s exceptional technical abilities while laying a solid groundwork for their upcoming match.

Leading by example, the team’s captain Agnes Nabukenya delivered an outstanding performance with six remarkable goals. With the second match taking place in Kampala on Sunday, January 19, 2025, Uganda’s chances of qualifying look promising.

Match Overview: Uganda’s Masterclass

A Fierce Start to the Game

The match began with a clear message from Uganda: dominance. Nabukenya scored the opening goal in the 6th minute with a precise shot that caught Namibia’s goalkeeper Leena Uime Andonyo completely off guard.

The lead doubled to two goals four minutes after Nabukenya’s first when Rinah Ariho exploited a defensive mistake. When Nabukenya scored again at the 12th minute mark the score reached 3-0 in Uganda’s favor.

Hafeni Victor Ndeitunga, Namibia’s head coach made a quick substitution bringing Otheedite Tokwane on the field for Christene Hausiku. The replacement of Christene Hausiku by Otheedite Tokwane didn’t manage to halt Uganda’s unrelenting offense.

Nabukenya’s Hat-Trick and More

In the 18th minute Nabukenya achieved her hat-trick to make it 4-0 while her fourth goal followed soon with a tap-in assisted perfectly by Shadia Nabirye.

The team from Uganda established a dominant 5-0 lead by the 25th minute. Due to Uganda’s relentless offensive plays Namibia’s defense couldn’t hold back which led to another substitution. Shiwovanhu Indileni Ndahambekwa Haukongo came off the field and Anna Marie Kotze entered as defender to briefly stabilize Namibia’s backline.

During the 38th minute the Namibian captain Nancy Boipelo Lebang generated their best scoring opportunity of the first half. Nancy Boipelo Lebang’s shot missed the target and Namibia continued to remain without a goal. With the first half ending Uganda took the lead to 6-0 after Ariho scored her second goal.

Second-Half Dominance

Key Substitutions to Maintain Pressure

The Uganda team brought on multiple substitutes at the start of the second half. Haira Nabbosa left the field to make way for Goalkeeper Sharifa Kizito Namutebi while Loyce Komugisha entered for Belinda Hope Nabawanuka and Rashida Nakalema replaced Cynthia Kirenga.

The player rotations let Uganda keep their offensive drive going while providing important playing time to other team members.

Continued Onslaught

The seventh goal for Uganda was scored by Joan Kizza Namulindwa immediately after she entered the game. She executed an electrifying run along the right side and scored by going to the near post during the 67th minute.

Nabukenya made headlines once again by scoring her fifth goal using a skillful lob shot that went over the goalkeeper. Moments after scoring her sixth goal which became Uganda’s ninth goal Nabukenya stunned Hamz Stadium spectators with another composed goal.

The Final Blow

The team brought on Isabella Winifred Kabarozi Blick late in the match when she scored Uganda’s final goal. The right-footed strike by Blick came after a powerful header and secured her place in the history books.

Namibia tried several times to score but Uganda maintained their defensive strength throughout the match which resulted in a clean sheet.

Uganda vs Namibia U-17 Qualifiers: Key Performers of the Match

Agnes Nabukenya

Nabukenya earned the title of match standout through her six-goal performance which showed off her precise finishing skills and leadership abilities.

Rinah Ariho

Ariho’s brace demonstrated her capacity to find and exploit defensive gaps while converting chances to score.

Joan Kizza Namulindwa

Namulindwa entered the game as a late replacement but he delivered an outstanding solo performance which resulted in Uganda’s seventh goal.

Isabella Winifred Kabarozi Blick

Blick scored a goal during her minimal playtime which confirmed Uganda’s command of the match.

Tactical Brilliance and Teamwork

The team’s successful preparation and execution should be credited to Uganda’s head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes. The team achieved success because of their high pressing game and quick passes which led to accurate scoring.

Namibia found it difficult to match Uganda’s speed and intensity during the match. Despite Coach Ndeitunga’s tactical modifications Namibia continued to struggle against Uganda’s persistent offensive plays.

What’s Next? The Return Leg

The second leg match is scheduled for February 19, 2025 at Hamz Fortress in Kampala. With a 10-goal advantage Uganda commands the situation to ensure their qualification for the next stage of the FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup Qualifiers.

However, complacency is not an option. Coach Botes will probably focus on keeping the team concentrated and completing their goals. Supporters should prepare for another exciting match as Uganda works to achieve similar results to their previous victory.

Uganda vs Namibia U-17 Qualifiers: Team Lineups and Match Officials

Namibia Starting XI: The Namibia team lineup includes Leena Uime Andonyo as goalkeeper followed by Christene Hausiku, Jullita Berndt, Shiwovanhu Indileni Ndahambekwa Haukongo, Cherifa Cody Garoes, Renalda Angel Tamara Hangula, Sheida Delany Job, Kanene Tjizuu, Nancy Boipelo Lebang serving as captain and Miriam Ndapandula Michael and Grace Eises as outfield players.

Substitutes: The substitutes are Ujeouvi Mbaha (G.K), Ontheedite Tokwane, Wilma Negumbo, Unice Mafuta, Joy Sweetness Atushe Goses, Melania Mpandu Gawas and Anna Marie Kotze.

Uganda Starting XI: The starting lineup for Uganda features Haira Nabbosa as goalkeeper followed by Belinda Hope Nabawanuka, Charity Katusiime, Shadia Nabirye with captain Agnes Nabukenya leading the defense which includes Cynthia Kirenga and Dorine Aujat; the midfield consists of Martha Babirye and Patience Asanyo while the attack is led by Ritah Anitah Nambuusi and Rinah Ariho.

Substitutes: As backups stood by Sharifa Kizito Namutebi (G.K), Mariam Namataka, Loyce Komugisha, Isabella Winifred Kabarozi Blick, Joan Kizza Namulindwa, Rashidah Nakalema and Irene Kabarokole.

Match Officials:

Referee: Rachel Nzigire (Cote D’Ivoire)
Assistant Referees: The match officials were Mireille Mujanayi and Carine Yidi Puazi from Cote D’Ivoire who served as Assistant Referees.
Fourth Official: Greta Musimu (Cote D’Ivoire)
Match Commissioner: Ntebogang Tsietsi (Botswana)

Why Uganda’s Victory Matters

The decisive victory achieved by Uganda demonstrates the development progress of women’s football in that country. The result illustrates how critical youth development initiatives are because they build players’ skills and get them ready to compete globally.

Uganda’s success extends beyond a single match because it demonstrates their ability to compete internationally while motivating future football talent.

Eyes on the Future

The FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup Qualifiers will forever remember Uganda’s 10-0 triumph over Namibia as one of the most commanding performances in tournament history. As the second leg approaches the team stands in a strong position to move to the next tournament phase.

The fans and supporters have another thrilling match to anticipate on January 19, 2025 when Uganda seeks to extend their winning sequence.

Tags Namibia, U-17 Qualifiers, Uganda