The Uganda Cranes team that is preparing to take part in the 2019 COSAFA Championship in South Africa embarked on training today at the Star Times stadium Lugogo ahead of a Regional tour match against Western region on Saturday in Bushenyi.
The side under Coach Abdallah Mubiru deputised by Morley Byekwaso and having former Uganda Cranes captain Geofrey Massa later on checked into Sky Hotel Nalya where it is accommodated.
The team will depart for Bushenyi on Friday morning ahead of the Regional Tour game organized by the national team sponsors Airtel and Nile Special a game that Mubiru says will help him observe the areas he needs to focus much of his attention before the team flies out a few days later to South Africa for the COSAFA tournament.
“I am happy with the morale and the response of the players I have worked with today though the fitness levels are a bit below the required standards which is understandable as they are coming from a break after the league ending a fortnight back” Mubiru stated.
He also expressed his pleasure in having Massa who captained the team to its first AFCON qualification in 2017 after a period of 38 years and said that his wealth of experience will go a long way in motivating and inspiring the predominantly young side.
“Massa is one of the greatest players in Uganda’s history when you consider his achievements. His presence in the team is a very great factor that is going to immensely build these players. I feel very pleased to be working with him.” noted Mubiru.
KCCA FC players were not part of the first training session after being given permission to take part in their club’s League title parade around the Capital in Kampala. – Story via fufa website.
Cosafa squad:
Goalkeepers: Said Keni (SC Villa), Alex Komakech (Ndejje Lions Junior team).
Outfield Players: Paul Willa (Police), John Revita (Express), Mustafa Kizza (KCCA), Paul Mbowa (URA), Hassan Musana (KCCA), Filbert Obenchan (KCCA) and Isaac Inside (Kirinya), Ivan Eyam (Mbarara City), Bright Anukani (Proline), David Owori (SC Villa), Paul Mucureezi (Mbarara City), Muzamiru Mutyaba (KCCA), Shafik Kagimu (URA), Michael Birungi (Express) and Nicholas Kasozi (KCCA), Bashir Mutanda (SC Villa), Daniel Sserunkuma (Vipers), Nelson Senkatuka (Bright Stars) and Allan Kayiwa (Tooro United)
Schedule:
17th May 2019: Uganda Cranes arrives in Western Uganda
Saturday: 18th May 2019
Match: Western Region Select vs Uganda Cranes
Venue: Bushenyi Main Ground
Time: 4pm
