Uganda Hippos Head Coach Morley Byekwaso on Wednesday revealed the 23-man squad for the Dire Cup in Ethiopia, a crucial preparatory tournament preceeding the All Africa Games 2023 Tournament in Accra, Ghana.
After an intensive six-day camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, blending rigorous training and trials, the team will have a trial tournament in Ethiopia.
The Dire Cup, scheduled to take place between February 24th to 28th, 2024, stands as a vital stepping stone for the Hippos.
The final squad named by coach Byekwaso will travel to Ethiopia on Thursday morning (11AM) aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
The tournament will have four nations including Uganda, hosts Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya.
Coach Byekwaso says, “the tournament in Ethiopia is more than just a contest; it’s a strategic opportunity to fine-tune strategies and assess team dynamics before the All Africa Games.” he told FUFA media.
Expressing confidence in his squad, the coach remarked, “The Dire Cup is a crucial phase in our journey. Selecting the final 23 was challenging, and narrowing it down to 20 for such a major tournament is even a more intricate task. However, I believe in the potential of this team, and we aim to harvest the best for the All Africa Games.”
The Dire Cup will serve as a precursor for the All Africa Games, scheduled from March 7th to 22nd, 2024 in Accra, Ghana.
Travelling Squad to Ethiopia
Gaolkeepers
Abdul Magada (Gaddafi FC), Shamulan Kamya (Soltilo Bright Stars FC), Humphrey Oyirwoth (Bukedea Comprehensive School)
Defenders
Haruna Lukwago (KCCA FC), Ibrahim Juma (CD Leganes), Enock Luyima (Vipers SC), Ronald Madoi (SFK Pierikos), Apollo Kagogwe (Wakiso Giants FC), Cyrus Kibande(SC Villa), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
Midfielders
Innocent Kisolo (URA FC), Ivan Irinimbabazi (SFK Pierikos), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC), Allan Oyirwoth (Brook House College), Hakim Mutebi (SC Villa), George Isiagi (Brook House College)
Forwards
Abbas Kyeyune (SC Villa), Arafat Kizza Usama (KCCA FC), Darious Ojok (Maroons FC), Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), Shafiq Magogo (Kitara FC), Alpha Thierry Ssali (Express FC), Bruno Bunyaga (URA FC)
Officials
Leader of Delegation – Dan Obote
Head Coach – Morley Byekwaso Ochama
Assistant Coach – Simeon Massa
Goalkeeping Coach – Stephen Billy Kiggundu
Team Doctor – Michael Gumisiriza
Equipment Manager – Frank Bumpenje
Media Officer – Joel Cornerious Kivumbi
FUFA President’s Office – Fred Katende
