Section
Recent football coverage and related updates from across Uganda Online.
football 16 May 2026
Manchester United has reached an agreement with former player Michael Carrick to take over as the club's permanent head coach. An official announcement is expected within 48 hours. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/man-utd-reach-agreement-to-appoint-carrick-manager-5462358
soccer 16 May 2026
As his departure looms, Mohamed Salah has called for Liverpool to return to their aggressive, feared "heavy metal" style of play after a disappointing season that has left Champions League qualification uncertain. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/salah-liverpool-must-return-to-heavy-metal-football-5462302
Sports 16 May 2026
Uganda's U-17 national football team, the Cubs, stand on the cusp of a historic achievement as they prepare for a pivotal match that could see them advance to the knockout stages of the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations for the first time. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/cubs-carry-uganda-s-hopes-into-defining-test-5462036
Sports 16 May 2026
The joint hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027 by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda marks a significant turning point for football in the East African region. The commitment from all three nations to provide necessary resources underscores the collective ambition behind this endeavor. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/afcon-2027-is-a-new-chapter-for-east-africa-s-football--5461758
Sports 16 May 2026
Former Belgium manager Roberto Martinez believes Portugal must navigate a period of 'chaos' to succeed in the upcoming World Cup. He emphasized the team's potential and the need for strong leadership. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/portugal-must-find-their-way-through-world-cup-chaos-says-martinez-5461708
Sports 16 May 2026
Kitara FC has secured a spot in the Uganda Cup final after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against holders Vipers SC. The match was decided on the away goals rule, with Kitara holding firm after an earlier first-leg goalless encounter. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/kitara-neutralize-vipers-venom-to-reach-uganda-cup-final-5461494
football 16 May 2026
Chelsea, despite a turbulent season marked by managerial changes and fan protests, have a chance to salvage silverware in the FA Cup final against a dominant Manchester City side still pursuing a domestic treble. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/chelsea-seek-fa-cup-salvation-after-tumultuous-season-man-city-still-eye-treble-5461486
football 14 May 2026
Kylian Mbappé lightheartedly commented that he is the fourth-choice forward for Real Madrid's Under-19 team, currently managed by Álvaro Arbeloa. The French star made the remark during a break from his recovery. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/mbappe-says-he-is-fourth-choice-forward-under-arbeloa-at-real-madrid-5460162
Sports 13 May 2026
Defending champions Buddo SS, alongside Kyaddondo, Ssingo, Mukono Kings, Amus College, and Bukedea Comprehensive South, have secured early qualification for the Round of 32 at the USSSA Boys Football Championship in Lira. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/early-birds-book-knockout-slots-in-lira-5457564
Sports 11 May 2026
Uganda's U-17 national football team coach, Laryea Kingston, believes the current squad has the potential to not only match but exceed the accomplishments of last year's team, which reached the round of 16 in the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations and qualified for the Fifa U-17 World Cup. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/kingston-believes-current-cubs-can-go-beyond-last-batch-5454184
football 10 May 2026
SC Villa's Uganda Premier League title aspirations faced a setback following a goalless draw against Bul FC. The result leaves them in fourth position with 52 points, while Vipers SC remains in contention. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/nervy-run-in-keeps-vipers-guessing-5453866
football 8 May 2026
Kawempe Muslim faces a challenging away fixture against former champions Kampala Queens, while league leaders She Corporate aim to solidify their title chances against Uganda Martyrs. A draw for Kawempe could hand the championship to She Corporate. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/kawempe-she-corporate-in-tricky-fwsl-visits-5450580
Sports 7 May 2026
The fifth edition of the Ankole Cup is set to kick off on June 6th, featuring new regulations aimed at strengthening local player development and fostering a deeper connection between teams and their districts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/ankole-cup-seeks-to-extend-grassroots-football-support-5450498
Sports 5 May 2026
Mikel Arteta described Arsenal's advancement to the Champions League final as an 'incredible night,' marking just the second time the club has reached this stage in its history. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/arteta-hails-incredible-night-as-arsenal-reach-champions-league-final-5448550
Sports 4 May 2026
Mukono Kings, who dominated early with 21 goals scored and none conceded including a 17-0 thrashing, were abruptly disqualified from the USSSA Ball Games girls' football tournament over an ineligible player. The team couldn't verify suspect player Salimah Nankwanga, ending their title hopes despite advancing hopes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/other-sport/mukono-kings-thrown-out-despite-perfect-start-5446424
Sports 30 April 2026
Nineteen-year-old Owen Salamu has transformed from a creative midfielder into Mukono Zone's standout goalkeeper, helping St Mark SS Kayunga qualify for nationals while conceding just one goal in key matches. Voted the tournament's best keeper, his journey highlights discipline and rapid adaptation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/midfielder-turned-keeper-salamu-shines-in-mukono-5442586
Sports 28 April 2026
FIFA is in talks with national associations to raise financial support for the 2026 World Cup teams and development funding for all members, with approvals expected at the upcoming FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver. This follows European requests amid high participation costs and comes after budget cuts raised concerns for host cities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/fifa-likely-to-increase-funding-fees-for-teams-5439500
Sports 28 April 2026
FIFA's annual congress kicks off in Vancouver amid scrutiny over the costs and logistics of the historic 48-team 2026 World Cup across North America. Key issues include financial concerns from European teams, Iran's participation challenges, and visa hurdles for some delegations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/vancouver-hosts-fifa-congress-with-expanded-world-cup-under-scrutiny-5439478
Sports 23 April 2026
Italian sports leaders have rejected a US envoy's suggestion to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling it inappropriate, shameful, and undeserved. The tournament is set for June 11 to July 19 across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/italy-officials-not-appropriate-to-replace-iran-in-world-cup-5434542
Sports 23 April 2026
Barcelona's young star Lamine Yamal has been sidelined for the remaining six La Liga matches due to a torn left hamstring injury sustained in a recent win, but the club expects him to recover in time for Spain's World Cup campaign. The 18-year-old will follow a non-surgical treatment plan. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/barcelona-s-lamine-yamal-out-for-season-expected-to-play-in-world-cup-5434416
Sports 22 April 2026
Mexico Football Federation sporting director Duilio Davino has confirmed that Rafael Marquez will take over as national team manager from Javier Aguirre after this summer's World Cup. Marquez, a Barcelona legend and former Mexico captain, has been Aguirre's assistant since July 2024 under a planned succession. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/rafael-marquez-will-replace-javier-aguirre-as-mexico-manager-after-world-cup-5432308
Sports 21 April 2026
Africa will boast a record 10 teams at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA, with SuperSport on DStv and GOtv offering special packages including local language commentary for viewers across the continent, including Uganda. Hollywood star Idris Elba announced the coverage in a hype video, emphasizing African football's moment on the global stage. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/special-world-cup-package-awaits-african-audience-5430194
Sports 20 April 2026
Football legend Gheorghe Hagi has been reappointed as Romania's national team manager, marking 25 years since his initial tenure. The iconic player from the 1980s and 1990s era steps back into the role ahead of key international fixtures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/hagi-returns-to-manage-romania-25-years-after-his-first-spell-5430366
Sports 18 April 2026
Critics argue that FUFA's plan to naturalize foreign players for the Uganda Cranes masks serious administrative failures and reputational damage, rather than addressing systemic issues ahead of the 2027 Afcon. True progress demands institutional reforms over quick-fix talent imports. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/naturalization-mirage-uganda-s-sporting-integrity-a-liability-5428172
Sports 18 April 2026
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has selected 11 schools across Uganda's regions to serve as Schools of Excellence, nurturing young football talent identified through mass programs. These institutions signed MoUs to provide education and training, with FUFA supplying resources and aiming for tailor-made academic paths for elite players. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/fufa-confirm-schools-of-excellence-5427928
Sports 16 April 2026
Nestled in remote Agago District, Paorihner Sports Academy stands out as one of only two FUFA Grade Two academies outside central Uganda, blending education and football to nurture talents like national youth star Joseph Langol. Born from post-war rehabilitation efforts, it serves over 600 learners while producing competitive teams despite logistical hurdles. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/paorihner-the-next-football-frontier-rising-from-agago-5425884
Sports 16 April 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that the qualified team and players are eager to play despite political hurdles and safety concerns from the US. Iran's group stage matches are set in the United States, including games against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/fifa-president-gianni-infantino-iran-for-sure-playing-in-world-cup-5425616
Sports 15 April 2026
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti believes the 34-year-old Neymar can recover from injuries and prove his fitness in the next two months to join the national team for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The Santos captain, Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals, has shown promising form recently despite past setbacks. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/brazil-coach-says-neymar-still-has-time-to-make-world-cup-squad-5424444
Sports 15 April 2026
Ghana has named 73-year-old Carlos Queiroz as its new head coach following the dismissal of Otto Addo amid a poor run of form. The experienced Portuguese tactician brings a wealth of international pedigree, including multiple World Cup stints with Portugal and Iran. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/ghana-hires-carlos-queiroz-as-head-coach-ahead-of-world-cup-5424118
Sports 11 April 2026
Uganda's St Mary's Kitende fell short of continental glory, losing 5-4 on penalties to Senegal in the boys' final of the CAF African Schools Football Championship. The team returns with Shs740m earmarked for school development projects like classrooms and sports facilities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/kitende-settle-for-shs740m-as-senegal-deny-uganda-continental-crown-5420468
Sports 9 April 2026
Twinbrook Elementary School dominated the latest matches in the Primary Schools Futsal League at Twinbrook School in Kiteezi, with standout performances from young players highlighting rapid skill development. The competition is building a strong foundation for Ugandan football through technique and quick thinking. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/other-sport/boys-futsal-offers-glimpse-into-the-future-5418434
Sports 7 April 2026
Uganda's Local Organizing Committee for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations has called for public reassurance amid readiness concerns, highlighting a new Shs905 billion government allocation on top of the earlier Shs1.35 trillion for CHAN 2025 and Afcon infrastructure. Funds will upgrade stadiums, airports, hotels, hospitals, and more to meet Caf standards for the East African co-hosting. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/afcon-loc-calls-for-calm-as-preps-get-shs905b-financial-reassurance--5415420
Sports 3 April 2026
Uganda faces critical questions on its readiness to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), urging proactive preparations to avoid last-minute chaos. Experts warn against complacency as the tournament approaches. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/let-s-avoid-sleepwalking-into-afcon-5411912
Sports 2 April 2026
CAF has rejected Hoima City Stadium's suitability for AFCON 2027 due to issues like inadequate VIP security, poor media facilities, and insufficient infrastructure in the area. Ugandan authorities promise fixes ahead of an August re-inspection. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/caf-to-hoima-stadium-zero-marks--5410702
Sports 1 April 2026
FIFA has banned Ugandan footballer Ashraf Mbazira from all football activities worldwide due to his role in match-fixing during a 2024 Uganda Premier League game. The sanction, effective from March 12, 2026, follows a FUFA ruling and underscores FIFA's zero-tolerance policy on corruption in the sport. Source: https://observer.ug/news/fifa-hands-ugandan-footballer-mbazira-worldwide-ban-over-match-fixing
Sports 1 April 2026
Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal with a knee in extra time against Jamaica, propelling DR Congo to the World Cup for the first time since 1974. The diaspora-heavy squad, led by coach Sebastien Desabre, ended a long wait for the nation's 110 million people. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/tuanzebe-shines-for-dr-congo-to-end-52-year-world-cup-wait--5409844
Sports 31 March 2026
Italy suffered a 4-1 penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final following a 1-1 draw, marking their third straight World Cup absence. Bosnia advances to Group B, while the four-time champions face mounting pressure after the latest failure. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/italy-miss-out-on-world-cup-for-third-straight-time-5409604
Sports 31 March 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has assured that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup with their scheduled matches in the United States, despite earlier concerns over geopolitical tensions. He dismissed suggestions of relocation to Mexico, emphasizing the team's strength and readiness. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/iran-will-play-world-cup-games-in-us-infantino-5409358
Sports 31 March 2026
Mehta SS dominated St Andrew’s Lugazi 7-2 to win the Buikwe District final, ending a two-year reign by another school. Mukono Kings advanced unbeaten without conceding a goal, setting up semifinals against Central College Kabimbiri. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/mehta-reclaim-buikwe-kings-unbeaten-5409040
Sports 28 March 2026
Match-fixing persists in Ugandan football due to inadequate player pay, meager prize money, and vulnerable referees, turning bribes into survival lifelines despite legal bans. Economic imbalances make integrity unaffordable for many involved. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/the-price-of-integrity-why-match-fixing-is-a-necessary-evil-in-uganda-5406150
Sports 28 March 2026
In Uganda's growing football scene, understanding FIFA's rules on terminating contracts with just cause is vital amid frequent wage delays and disputes. Players and clubs alike can end agreements without penalty under specific breaches, but proper procedure is essential to avoid pitfalls. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/player-vs-club-understanding-termination-with-just-cause-5406130
Sports 28 March 2026
Italy, the four-time World Cup winners, stand just 90 minutes from qualifying for the 2026 tournament. They face Bosnia and Herzegovina in a crucial playoff clash on Tuesday. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/italy-90-minutes-away-from-world-cup-5405894
Sports 28 March 2026
Danny White marked his return to the England squad by scoring a goal, yet drew loud boos from the home crowd who treated him as a villain. His late substitute appearance injected drama into an otherwise lackluster match. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/white-booed-despite-scoring-on-england-return--5405886
Sports 28 March 2026
Florian Wirtz scored twice and provided two assists as Germany staged two comebacks to defeat Switzerland 4-3 in a thrilling World Cup friendly. The 22-year-old's stunning strikes turned the game in Germany's favor despite a leaky defense. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/stunning-wirtz-double-earns-germany-comeback-win--5405882
Sports 25 March 2026
The CAF inspection team has identified multiple operational deficiencies at Hoima City Stadium, despite its recent commissioning and early completion, deeming it short of Category Four standards for the 2027 AFCON. Key issues include view obstructions, poor spectator segregation, inadequate media facilities, and the need for dressing room upgrades ahead of the next inspection in August. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/caf-hoima-stadium-2027-afcon-facilities-still-wanting-5403204
Sports 22 March 2026
Iran's soccer chief Mehdi Taj has affirmed that the national team will continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup and participate fully, but they will boycott matches in the United States due to ongoing conflict. The team is negotiating with FIFA to relocate their group stage games to Mexico. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/iran-continuing-world-cup-preparations-but-will-not-play-in-us-says-soccer-chief-5399154
Sports 13 March 2026
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has launched the Academies League, a key part of its Technical Master Plan, starting with a pilot in Kampala and Buganda regions. Backed by government support, the initiative targets Grade 2 and 3 academies to build a strong talent pipeline for national teams. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/fufa-academies-league-to-shape-uganda-s-football-future-5388502
Sports 13 March 2026
Ugandan footballers often shine domestically but struggle to sustain careers in elite European leagues due to tactical gaps, mental hurdles, and poor preparation. A new academy system and better nurturing could help produce more enduring stars like Ibrahim Sekagya and Majid Musisi. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/sports-columnists/long-road-to-professional-longevity-for-ugandan-stars-5388506