There are just four rounds of fixtures left to end the regular season of the FUFA Beach Soccer League 2023/24. Defending champions St. Lawrence University have already qualified for the championship play-offs, and newbies Kampala City can join them this weekend if they win their two games on Sunday.
SLAU are out of action this weekend but Kampala City meet in massive bouts with play-off hopefuls – Mutoola and Buganda Royal at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. Kampala’s recent showings have been unconvincing but Ivan Kulika’s men walloped a hapless and depleted Kiringente side 24-0 before defeating KJT 6-2 last weekend.
They are now second on the log having played 14 matches so far, counting 36 points, eight behind leaders St. Lawrence who have played two games more.
Therefore, success in their games on Sunday will throw the contest for the top spot widely open.
As St. Lawrence and Kampala City vie for supremacy at the top, the race for the remaining two play-off slots is heating up amongst Mutoola, MS Sand Lions and Buganda Royal. All find themselves in a must win situation to stand a chance of stepping into the elite class although the three can’t all qualify.
The trio have blown hot and cold this season, and stand in positions – three, four and five on the table respectively.
After playing Kampala City, Mutoola meet KJT next while Buganda Royal will face off with Grace Church before entering the big game against Kampala.
Mutoola Beach Soccer Club won its first ever silverware in the game of beach soccer after winning the fourth edition of the Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament on Sunday. The Sand Giants took on St. Lawrence University in the final that ended 3-1 at FUFA technical centre in Njeru.
The win also marks the first time a team other than Stormers and St. Lawrence won the competition.
Mutoola, who had survived by just whisker in the semifinal against the off color Kampala City and had also come short at St. Lawrence in the group stage, threatened first as they approached the game with energy and physique, swarming opponents like bees until they took the lead through the crafty Steven Nyalimo.
Mutoola’s Swaibu Kakwaya shielding the ball
St. Lawrence equally responded with the same tactics and hard tackling became a component of the game. The approach totally didn’t work for the two time winners however, with one of their dependables – Rica Byaruhanga getting forced out of the game with what looked a serious injury before the second period ended.
Mutoola remained on the front foot while their coach Jamal Salim Muwonge covered every particle of the sand in the technical area as he issued instructions to his men from time to time.
As a result, Paul Nsenge stretched his team’s lead with a fine finish and the Sand Giants went into the second break 2-0 up.
The contest became end to end midway the third period especially after Morris Luyima pulled one back for St. Lawrence who were desperate to drag the game to level terms.
Meanwhile, Mutoola had laid their traps well. They majestically foiled every attack from the Saints before Nyalimo watered down St. Lawrence’s hope of any potential comeback with a third goal for his team to seal the crown.
Mutoola’s sqaud
Before the final, Mutoola had engaged in a high tempo semifinal against Kampala City and required Swaibu Kakwaya’s magic to win the game 6-5. Kampala City took the lead through Ashiraf Mugumira and the forward added another goal to give his side a 2-0 lead.
However their 2-0 advantage in the first period turned false hope when Mutoola bounced with a full throttle approach after the break to throw Kampala to the trash can.
Swaibu Kakwaya came of age and ran from corner to corner, and scored a hat-trick, Steven Nyalimo grabbed a brace while Paul Nsenge completed the comeback with a winner.
Sharif Opuuli also scored a brace for Kampala City while Paul Lule also made it to the score sheet for his side but their goals were just mere consolations.
In the other semifinal, St. Lawrence outclassed Buganda Royal 6-2. Sulaiman Ochero (3), Ronald Magwali, Isaac Eshioke, and Rica Byaruhanga scored for the Saints. Buganda Royal’s two goals came through Jonathan Ddembe and James Namuyimba.
Kampala City beat Buganda Royal 7-4 in the third place play-off to win position number three.
Kampala City finished 3rd
Individual Awards
Mutoola also dominated even in the individual awards. Star man Steven Nyalimo was picked as the most valuable player (MVP), Salim Jamal Muwonge walked home with the best coach award while Siraje Masembe was the best goalkeeper.
The fair play award was won by Buganda Royal, Paul Lule of Kampala City took the top scorers award with eight goals.
MVP – Steven Nyalimo
Group stage results
The tournament was graced by six teams. Swans Sports Club was the only non-league side that honored the competition and at least went home with a goal scored by Habibu Zife against Buganda Royal. The teams were pooled in two groups – Nile and Katonga.
Kampala City, Buganda Royal and Swans competed in the Nile group. The Katonga group had Mutoola, Mengo Hill and St. Lawrence.
Swaga time: Swans players and officials enjoying a photo moment with the trophy
The long wait is over. After four years of absence, Muwanguzi memorial beach soccer tournament is finally back as it is just hours to kick-off and we are already into the business of the competition.
Seven teams registered for this year’s edition – with big names like St. Lawrence University, Mutoola, Kampala City and Buganda Royal being part of the bunch. It will however be interesting to see the two non-league sides Swans Sports Club and Buliisa Sand Dragons hit the sand at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. St. Lawrence are the record winners with two crowns.
FUFA Technical Centre Beach Soccer Arena is set
The draw for the group stage took place on Friday May 10, 2024 at the Uganda Beach Soccer Association offices in Mengo where the seven teams learned who they will meet when the competition makes a comeback on Sunday.
Holders St. Lawrence was pitted against rivals Mutoola in the Katonga group that also includes Mengo Hill and Buliisa Sand Dragons.
Kampala City meet Buganda Royal, Swans Sports Club completes this three team Nile group. Matches are scheduled to start at 9am.
Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament was started in 2017 and the past winners are – Stormers BSC (2017) and St. Lawrence (2018 and 2019).
It is eight (8) days to the Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament but we are already sniffing the aura and excitement it is going to deliver.
The tournament has a reputation for being competitive and entertaining due to the relatively level playing field among its competitors.
This year, the fourth edition of the competition is going to be fierce.
Of the twelve (12) teams set to feature on 12th May at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, only two are non-league sides.
In fact, only Swans Sports Club from Entebbe and Buliisa Sand Dragons BSC from Buliisa district are the outsiders but the rest are plying trade in the FUFA beach soccer league.
St. Lawrence BSC are the current cup holders, and given the fact that they have dominated the league for the last four seasons, other clubs see Muwanguzi as a viable option to win a silverware. This means teams give their all in the quest for glory.
List of teams:
Kampala City, St. Lawrence University, Buganda Royal Institute, Kampala Junior Team (KJT), Wolves, Mutoola, Grace Church, MS Sand Lions, Kiringente, Mengo Hill, Swans Sports Club and Buliisa Sand Dragons.
Muwanguzi Memorial Beach Soccer Tournament is back this year following a four-year lull. The fourth edition was confirmed in a stakeholders meeting recently and will be played on Sunday 14th April and Sunday 12th May 2024 at FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena in Njeru. The last edition of the tournament was held in 2019.
It was started in 2017 and St. Lawrence University are the record winners with two titles having won the previous two editions of the showpiece in 2018 and 2019. Stormers BSC were the inaugural winners in 2017.
The competition is the main beach soccer cup tournament in Uganda and open to even non-league teams. It was named Muwanguzi memorial beach soccer tournament in memory of the late Samson Muwanguzi, one of the founders of the game of beach soccer in the country.
Beach soccer enthusiasts are in for a thrilling Sunday featuring headline duels involving Kampala City, Mutoola, Buganda Royal and defending champions St. Lawrence University. With Kampala City’s latest triumph over Buganda Royal setting the stage, St. Lawrence’s quest to trim the Ab’emikwano’s lead sees them facing off in a block buster clash this Sunday at FUFA technical centre in Njeru.
Having missed the previous two outings, St. Lawrence, who are also the record league champions with five titles, will dominate the outing in terms of appearances as they also have to play their rescheduled matches against eternal rivals Buganda Royal and Mutoola, with all the ties having more than just bragging rights at stake.
Clash of the Titans: Kampala City Vs St. Lawrence
A tactical chess match awaits as Ivan Kulika’s men aim to protect their perfect winning record in the league. Kampala City may be rookies here but have started their maiden season with a bang.
Boasting with seasoned men on the sand, including former and current national team players – Douglas Muganga, Paul Lule, Paul Kato, Shaka Ssozi and the gigantic Nicholas Mwere, they remain the only side yet to drop a point this term as they have collected a maximum of 24 points from the eight games played to sit on top of the pile.
Davis Nnono’s St. Lawrence must shore up their ranks to withstand Kampala’s onslaught. The Ab’emikwano have a strong attacking nerve and their attacking fire power can demolish any defense. SLAU’s response will hinge on a disciplined defensive strategy to thwart Kampala City’s potent attack, and also hope that their marksmen Baker Lukooya, Brian Nkuubi and Ronald Magwali hit the net at the opposite end.
Buganda Royal Vs St. Lawrence
It’s the battle that will open the promising outing packed with beach soccer drama. Buganda Royal will look to extend their impressive run of form. The Abambowa, fuelled by recent victories, are eager to solidify their claim for a top four place but must be at their best or should even seek divine intervention to quieten a star decorated SLAU. The reigning champions, with their eyes on the top spot, are expected to display their might against this youthful side that has defied expectations so far.
St. Lawrence Vs Mutoola
FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena will buzz again as Mutoola flex muscles with the Saints in a sparkling encounter.
Mutoola, struggling to find their footing this season, face a must—win scenario to maintain their chase for a top four status. Ensnared in arguably a perilous form, they find themselves at crossroads where every point could be the difference between a top four spot and despair even though it’s still early. They need to win this one to rekindle their hope and confidence.
Rounding off the day, MS Sand Lions will play Wolves; Mutoola will be against Grace Church while Buganda Royal will close their first round business against Wolves.
Far from their former selves, Mutoola BSC produced yet another horrible show, this time retreating home with the heads in their hands after losing two vital games on Sunday.
A season in which they have already been shy of their known high standards but scrapping unconvincing wins against nerveless opponents, Mutoola plumbed new depths as they miserably slumped to a 4-1 defeat at Kampala City and a 2-1 loss against Buganda Royal at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. It condemned the Sand Giants to their first defeats this campaign, they had never lost a game before Sunday albeit nearly being awful in the previous outings.
Although Steven Nyalimo scored for them, Paul Lule’s double and a goal each from Fredrick Ngalo and Paul Kato for Kampala City set the Sand Giants’ whipping session in motion, which opened the door for Buganda Royal to also have Salim Muwonge’s men for a meal.
It looked like a fluke when Solomon Zziwa drove Buganda Royal infront in the second period because by this time, Mutoola had missed chance after chance and had been favorites to find the first goal in the game before Zziwa shook the table.
Simon Peter Kijjo finally found his scoring feet when he scored the equalizer for his side, and a sigh of relief reigned in the dugout.
And as the game progressed, both teams looked contented to walk home with a point each. However, Mutoola’s hearts would be torn into pieces in the closing minutes of the game. Solomon Zziwa who had thrown the first jab, showed up again with the winner for Buganda Royal with just five seconds left on the clock to leave Mutoola wailing.
Kampala City reigned supreme in their second game as well, beating Kampala Junior Team (KJT) 5-3 to go back to the top of the tree with 21 points after seven games. Paul Kato struck a brace as Paul Lule, Ambrose Kigozi and Hussein Ssajjabbi scored to rescue their side from the claws of a hard fighting KJT. Jordan Ajuna (2) and Ashiraf Mugumira netted for the latter.
KJT however compensated the loss with a 6-1 win over strugglers Grace Church, their second victory of the season. Ashiraf Mugumira was the tormentor in chief, he scored four goals. Jordan Ajuna grabbed a brace while Jonah Munaai scored for Grace Church the only goal they managed in the game.
The happiest on the day were perhaps Kiringente who climbed from the base of the table to the sixth place following the 4-3 and 6-1wins against Mengo Hill and Grace Church respectively. Junior Kagezi scored a combined five goals, with a hat-trick coming in his team’s slim triumph over Mengo Hill. Marvin Mugerwa who scored three goals across the games had two against the church boys. The 6-1victory was then sealed by Hamuza Ssenoga’s strike and an own goal from Jonah Munaai.
Brazil goals: Rodrigo (3), Bruno Xavier, Genovali OG, Brendo Italy goals: Fazzini (2), Genovali (2) Player of the Match: Rodrigo
Photo credit: FIFA
Brazil dazzled in a 6-4 win over Italy in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup final on Sunday, with Rodrigo delivering a breathtaking display.
The phenomenal Rodrigo propelled Brazil to a comeback victory over Italy in the UAE 2024 Dubai final. The sport’s recently-crowned Best Men’s Player hit a hat-trick, produced some mind-blowing moves, including an elastic pass, and was responsible for Leandro Casapieri’s red card.
The result made the Seleção of the sand the first six-time world champions in beach soccer, futsal or football. It wasn’t all plain sailing for Marco Octavio’s men. Gianmarco Genovali’s cushioned volley gave Italy the lead, and Casapieri preserved it with an awe-inspiring denial of Rodrigo.
Brazil goalkeeper Bobo pulled off a stunning stop of his own, before Catarino and Mauricinho combined excellently to set up Rodrigo for the equalizer. Midway through the second period, the alert Rodrigo capitalized upon a weak back-pass and rounded Casapieri, who felled the Brazil No9 and was sent off.
His replacement Andrea Carpita made two fine saves, and Josep Jr somehow hooked the ball off the line, before the South Americans made their numerical advantage count through a Rodrigo bicycle kick.
The never-say-die attitude of Italy showed itself once again, though, with Tommaso Fazzini equalising. Thereafter, however, Brazil were simply too hot to handle. Bruno Xavier’s glorious goal, Brendo’s spectacular effort and Rodrigo’s third of the game powered them to an unforgettable victory.
Information from fifa.com was used in this report.
Nine teams take to the pitch this Sunday for match day four of the FUFA beach soccer league at FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena in Njeru.
Mutoola Vs KJT
Mutoola BSC kicks off the action against Kampala Junior Team (KJT) at 11am. Both sides have largely been unconvincing if their showings on the pitch are to go by but despite being short of fluidity they were known for the past season, the Sand Giants remain one of the unbeaten sides so far. It is three wins and a draw for them in four games, sitting in the fourth place with 10 points – same as Buganda Royal and St. Lawrence who lie third and second in that order, and just two points behind leaders Kampala City.
KJT were aggressive and energetic in their first campaign as they made the big sides sweat blood, however, it is fairly enough to say they have been silent and yet to make their presence felt this season. With just one win in three rounds for them, they can only be good enough for the sixth position on the table with three points. They might be determined to get more points on the board but they will require some bit of a magic to overcome Mutoola.
Kampala City Vs MS Sand Lions
Kampala City will be rallying their troops to break down the stubborn MS Sand Lions at 12pm. Their life under Ivan Kulika continues to deliver a feel good factor. They have swept aside opponents without putting in an effort, garnering four wins in as many games to comfortably swing their legs from the top with 12 points.
But MS Sand Lions is desperate to regain a place in the first four, and many times if they don’t win, at least they refuse to be beaten. No team has drawn more than the Tiimi Y’ekibuga’s two stalemates this term. They frustrated Mutoola and Buganda Royal the last time out and will arrive in Njeru hoping to challenge the early pace setters for the three points.
St Lawrence BSC Vs Mengo Hill
St. Lawrence will fancy their chances against a Mengo Hill side that has lost all its four matches and conceded the highest number of goals (33). The defending champions were superbly held to a 5-5 draw by Kiringente the previous outing and slightly fell off from the top of the tree, but may find this tie a walk in the park given the hefty gulf in quality and experience which exists between the two teams. Therefore a fourth win will be a welcome sight as the race for the top spots starts to take ground.
Wolves Vs Kiringente
Kiringente is one of the three teams still looking to pick up their first league win but face Wolves who are equally in the same struggle. Kiringente is on the other hand expected to come out of this out of form bout with maximum points having shown improvement in their five all stalemate against St. Lawrence.
Sunday’s action will conclude with Grace Church playing MS Sand Lions, St. Lawrence will also step in the sand again against KJT, while Wolves will draw the curtains down with Mengo Hill at 5pm.
Ref Kennedy Kawagga (left) receiving his equipments from the FUFA president
Four FIFA certified beach soccer referees have received their badges and equipments for the year of 2024.
The approved referees included; Ivan Kintu Bayige, Muhammad Ssenteza, Kennedy Bazirio Kawagga and Joel Chote Munyendoh.
These were awarded badges at the function presided over by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo at FUFA Complex in Mengo, Kampala on Tuesday 30th January.
Bayige and Ssenteza have been at the FIFA standard since 2015, Kawagga received his first FIFA listing in 2019 while Munyendoh received his first international badge in 2022.
There are just four rounds of fixtures left to end the regular season of the FUFA Beach Soccer League 2023/24. Defending champions St. Lawrence University have already qualified for the championship play-offs, and newbies Kampala City can join them this weekend if they win their two games on Sunday.
SLAU are out of action this weekend but Kampala City meet in massive bouts with play-off hopefuls – Mutoola and Buganda Royal at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. Kampala’s recent showings have been unconvincing but Ivan Kulika’s men walloped a hapless and depleted Kiringente side 24-0 before defeating KJT 6-2 last weekend.
They are now second on the log having played 14 matches so far, counting 36 points, eight behind leaders St. Lawrence who have played two games more.
Therefore, success in their games on Sunday will throw the contest for the top spot widely open.
As St. Lawrence and Kampala City vie for supremacy at the top, the race for the remaining two play-off slots is heating up amongst Mutoola, MS Sand Lions and Buganda Royal. All find themselves in a must win situation to stand a chance of stepping into the elite class although the three can’t all qualify.
The trio have blown hot and cold this season, and stand in positions – three, four and five on the table respectively.
After playing Kampala City, Mutoola meet KJT next while Buganda Royal will face off with Grace Church before entering the big game against Kampala.
Mutoola Beach Soccer Club won its first ever silverware in the game of beach soccer after winning the fourth edition of the Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament on Sunday. The Sand Giants took on St. Lawrence University in the final that ended 3-1 at FUFA technical centre in Njeru.
The win also marks the first time a team other than Stormers and St. Lawrence won the competition.
Mutoola, who had survived by just whisker in the semifinal against the off color Kampala City and had also come short at St. Lawrence in the group stage, threatened first as they approached the game with energy and physique, swarming opponents like bees until they took the lead through the crafty Steven Nyalimo.
Mutoola’s Swaibu Kakwaya shielding the ball
St. Lawrence equally responded with the same tactics and hard tackling became a component of the game. The approach totally didn’t work for the two time winners however, with one of their dependables – Rica Byaruhanga getting forced out of the game with what looked a serious injury before the second period ended.
Mutoola remained on the front foot while their coach Jamal Salim Muwonge covered every particle of the sand in the technical area as he issued instructions to his men from time to time.
As a result, Paul Nsenge stretched his team’s lead with a fine finish and the Sand Giants went into the second break 2-0 up.
The contest became end to end midway the third period especially after Morris Luyima pulled one back for St. Lawrence who were desperate to drag the game to level terms.
Meanwhile, Mutoola had laid their traps well. They majestically foiled every attack from the Saints before Nyalimo watered down St. Lawrence’s hope of any potential comeback with a third goal for his team to seal the crown.
Mutoola’s sqaud
Before the final, Mutoola had engaged in a high tempo semifinal against Kampala City and required Swaibu Kakwaya’s magic to win the game 6-5. Kampala City took the lead through Ashiraf Mugumira and the forward added another goal to give his side a 2-0 lead.
However their 2-0 advantage in the first period turned false hope when Mutoola bounced with a full throttle approach after the break to throw Kampala to the trash can.
Swaibu Kakwaya came of age and ran from corner to corner, and scored a hat-trick, Steven Nyalimo grabbed a brace while Paul Nsenge completed the comeback with a winner.
Sharif Opuuli also scored a brace for Kampala City while Paul Lule also made it to the score sheet for his side but their goals were just mere consolations.
In the other semifinal, St. Lawrence outclassed Buganda Royal 6-2. Sulaiman Ochero (3), Ronald Magwali, Isaac Eshioke, and Rica Byaruhanga scored for the Saints. Buganda Royal’s two goals came through Jonathan Ddembe and James Namuyimba.
Kampala City beat Buganda Royal 7-4 in the third place play-off to win position number three.
Kampala City finished 3rd
Individual Awards
Mutoola also dominated even in the individual awards. Star man Steven Nyalimo was picked as the most valuable player (MVP), Salim Jamal Muwonge walked home with the best coach award while Siraje Masembe was the best goalkeeper.
The fair play award was won by Buganda Royal, Paul Lule of Kampala City took the top scorers award with eight goals.
MVP – Steven Nyalimo
Group stage results
The tournament was graced by six teams. Swans Sports Club was the only non-league side that honored the competition and at least went home with a goal scored by Habibu Zife against Buganda Royal. The teams were pooled in two groups – Nile and Katonga.
Kampala City, Buganda Royal and Swans competed in the Nile group. The Katonga group had Mutoola, Mengo Hill and St. Lawrence.
Swaga time: Swans players and officials enjoying a photo moment with the trophy
The long wait is over. After four years of absence, Muwanguzi memorial beach soccer tournament is finally back as it is just hours to kick-off and we are already into the business of the competition.
Seven teams registered for this year’s edition – with big names like St. Lawrence University, Mutoola, Kampala City and Buganda Royal being part of the bunch. It will however be interesting to see the two non-league sides Swans Sports Club and Buliisa Sand Dragons hit the sand at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. St. Lawrence are the record winners with two crowns.
FUFA Technical Centre Beach Soccer Arena is set
The draw for the group stage took place on Friday May 10, 2024 at the Uganda Beach Soccer Association offices in Mengo where the seven teams learned who they will meet when the competition makes a comeback on Sunday.
Holders St. Lawrence was pitted against rivals Mutoola in the Katonga group that also includes Mengo Hill and Buliisa Sand Dragons.
Kampala City meet Buganda Royal, Swans Sports Club completes this three team Nile group. Matches are scheduled to start at 9am.
Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament was started in 2017 and the past winners are – Stormers BSC (2017) and St. Lawrence (2018 and 2019).
It is eight (8) days to the Muwanguzi beach soccer tournament but we are already sniffing the aura and excitement it is going to deliver.
The tournament has a reputation for being competitive and entertaining due to the relatively level playing field among its competitors.
This year, the fourth edition of the competition is going to be fierce.
Of the twelve (12) teams set to feature on 12th May at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, only two are non-league sides.
In fact, only Swans Sports Club from Entebbe and Buliisa Sand Dragons BSC from Buliisa district are the outsiders but the rest are plying trade in the FUFA beach soccer league.
St. Lawrence BSC are the current cup holders, and given the fact that they have dominated the league for the last four seasons, other clubs see Muwanguzi as a viable option to win a silverware. This means teams give their all in the quest for glory.
List of teams:
Kampala City, St. Lawrence University, Buganda Royal Institute, Kampala Junior Team (KJT), Wolves, Mutoola, Grace Church, MS Sand Lions, Kiringente, Mengo Hill, Swans Sports Club and Buliisa Sand Dragons.
Muwanguzi Memorial Beach Soccer Tournament is back this year following a four-year lull. The fourth edition was confirmed in a stakeholders meeting recently and will be played on Sunday 14th April and Sunday 12th May 2024 at FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena in Njeru. The last edition of the tournament was held in 2019.
It was started in 2017 and St. Lawrence University are the record winners with two titles having won the previous two editions of the showpiece in 2018 and 2019. Stormers BSC were the inaugural winners in 2017.
The competition is the main beach soccer cup tournament in Uganda and open to even non-league teams. It was named Muwanguzi memorial beach soccer tournament in memory of the late Samson Muwanguzi, one of the founders of the game of beach soccer in the country.
Beach soccer enthusiasts are in for a thrilling Sunday featuring headline duels involving Kampala City, Mutoola, Buganda Royal and defending champions St. Lawrence University. With Kampala City’s latest triumph over Buganda Royal setting the stage, St. Lawrence’s quest to trim the Ab’emikwano’s lead sees them facing off in a block buster clash this Sunday at FUFA technical centre in Njeru.
Having missed the previous two outings, St. Lawrence, who are also the record league champions with five titles, will dominate the outing in terms of appearances as they also have to play their rescheduled matches against eternal rivals Buganda Royal and Mutoola, with all the ties having more than just bragging rights at stake.
Clash of the Titans: Kampala City Vs St. Lawrence
A tactical chess match awaits as Ivan Kulika’s men aim to protect their perfect winning record in the league. Kampala City may be rookies here but have started their maiden season with a bang.
Boasting with seasoned men on the sand, including former and current national team players – Douglas Muganga, Paul Lule, Paul Kato, Shaka Ssozi and the gigantic Nicholas Mwere, they remain the only side yet to drop a point this term as they have collected a maximum of 24 points from the eight games played to sit on top of the pile.
Davis Nnono’s St. Lawrence must shore up their ranks to withstand Kampala’s onslaught. The Ab’emikwano have a strong attacking nerve and their attacking fire power can demolish any defense. SLAU’s response will hinge on a disciplined defensive strategy to thwart Kampala City’s potent attack, and also hope that their marksmen Baker Lukooya, Brian Nkuubi and Ronald Magwali hit the net at the opposite end.
Buganda Royal Vs St. Lawrence
It’s the battle that will open the promising outing packed with beach soccer drama. Buganda Royal will look to extend their impressive run of form. The Abambowa, fuelled by recent victories, are eager to solidify their claim for a top four place but must be at their best or should even seek divine intervention to quieten a star decorated SLAU. The reigning champions, with their eyes on the top spot, are expected to display their might against this youthful side that has defied expectations so far.
St. Lawrence Vs Mutoola
FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena will buzz again as Mutoola flex muscles with the Saints in a sparkling encounter.
Mutoola, struggling to find their footing this season, face a must—win scenario to maintain their chase for a top four status. Ensnared in arguably a perilous form, they find themselves at crossroads where every point could be the difference between a top four spot and despair even though it’s still early. They need to win this one to rekindle their hope and confidence.
Rounding off the day, MS Sand Lions will play Wolves; Mutoola will be against Grace Church while Buganda Royal will close their first round business against Wolves.
Far from their former selves, Mutoola BSC produced yet another horrible show, this time retreating home with the heads in their hands after losing two vital games on Sunday.
A season in which they have already been shy of their known high standards but scrapping unconvincing wins against nerveless opponents, Mutoola plumbed new depths as they miserably slumped to a 4-1 defeat at Kampala City and a 2-1 loss against Buganda Royal at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. It condemned the Sand Giants to their first defeats this campaign, they had never lost a game before Sunday albeit nearly being awful in the previous outings.
Although Steven Nyalimo scored for them, Paul Lule’s double and a goal each from Fredrick Ngalo and Paul Kato for Kampala City set the Sand Giants’ whipping session in motion, which opened the door for Buganda Royal to also have Salim Muwonge’s men for a meal.
It looked like a fluke when Solomon Zziwa drove Buganda Royal infront in the second period because by this time, Mutoola had missed chance after chance and had been favorites to find the first goal in the game before Zziwa shook the table.
Simon Peter Kijjo finally found his scoring feet when he scored the equalizer for his side, and a sigh of relief reigned in the dugout.
And as the game progressed, both teams looked contented to walk home with a point each. However, Mutoola’s hearts would be torn into pieces in the closing minutes of the game. Solomon Zziwa who had thrown the first jab, showed up again with the winner for Buganda Royal with just five seconds left on the clock to leave Mutoola wailing.
Kampala City reigned supreme in their second game as well, beating Kampala Junior Team (KJT) 5-3 to go back to the top of the tree with 21 points after seven games. Paul Kato struck a brace as Paul Lule, Ambrose Kigozi and Hussein Ssajjabbi scored to rescue their side from the claws of a hard fighting KJT. Jordan Ajuna (2) and Ashiraf Mugumira netted for the latter.
KJT however compensated the loss with a 6-1 win over strugglers Grace Church, their second victory of the season. Ashiraf Mugumira was the tormentor in chief, he scored four goals. Jordan Ajuna grabbed a brace while Jonah Munaai scored for Grace Church the only goal they managed in the game.
The happiest on the day were perhaps Kiringente who climbed from the base of the table to the sixth place following the 4-3 and 6-1wins against Mengo Hill and Grace Church respectively. Junior Kagezi scored a combined five goals, with a hat-trick coming in his team’s slim triumph over Mengo Hill. Marvin Mugerwa who scored three goals across the games had two against the church boys. The 6-1victory was then sealed by Hamuza Ssenoga’s strike and an own goal from Jonah Munaai.
Brazil goals: Rodrigo (3), Bruno Xavier, Genovali OG, Brendo Italy goals: Fazzini (2), Genovali (2) Player of the Match: Rodrigo
Photo credit: FIFA
Brazil dazzled in a 6-4 win over Italy in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup final on Sunday, with Rodrigo delivering a breathtaking display.
The phenomenal Rodrigo propelled Brazil to a comeback victory over Italy in the UAE 2024 Dubai final. The sport’s recently-crowned Best Men’s Player hit a hat-trick, produced some mind-blowing moves, including an elastic pass, and was responsible for Leandro Casapieri’s red card.
The result made the Seleção of the sand the first six-time world champions in beach soccer, futsal or football. It wasn’t all plain sailing for Marco Octavio’s men. Gianmarco Genovali’s cushioned volley gave Italy the lead, and Casapieri preserved it with an awe-inspiring denial of Rodrigo.
Brazil goalkeeper Bobo pulled off a stunning stop of his own, before Catarino and Mauricinho combined excellently to set up Rodrigo for the equalizer. Midway through the second period, the alert Rodrigo capitalized upon a weak back-pass and rounded Casapieri, who felled the Brazil No9 and was sent off.
His replacement Andrea Carpita made two fine saves, and Josep Jr somehow hooked the ball off the line, before the South Americans made their numerical advantage count through a Rodrigo bicycle kick.
The never-say-die attitude of Italy showed itself once again, though, with Tommaso Fazzini equalising. Thereafter, however, Brazil were simply too hot to handle. Bruno Xavier’s glorious goal, Brendo’s spectacular effort and Rodrigo’s third of the game powered them to an unforgettable victory.
Information from fifa.com was used in this report.
Nine teams take to the pitch this Sunday for match day four of the FUFA beach soccer league at FUFA technical centre beach soccer arena in Njeru.
Mutoola Vs KJT
Mutoola BSC kicks off the action against Kampala Junior Team (KJT) at 11am. Both sides have largely been unconvincing if their showings on the pitch are to go by but despite being short of fluidity they were known for the past season, the Sand Giants remain one of the unbeaten sides so far. It is three wins and a draw for them in four games, sitting in the fourth place with 10 points – same as Buganda Royal and St. Lawrence who lie third and second in that order, and just two points behind leaders Kampala City.
KJT were aggressive and energetic in their first campaign as they made the big sides sweat blood, however, it is fairly enough to say they have been silent and yet to make their presence felt this season. With just one win in three rounds for them, they can only be good enough for the sixth position on the table with three points. They might be determined to get more points on the board but they will require some bit of a magic to overcome Mutoola.
Kampala City Vs MS Sand Lions
Kampala City will be rallying their troops to break down the stubborn MS Sand Lions at 12pm. Their life under Ivan Kulika continues to deliver a feel good factor. They have swept aside opponents without putting in an effort, garnering four wins in as many games to comfortably swing their legs from the top with 12 points.
But MS Sand Lions is desperate to regain a place in the first four, and many times if they don’t win, at least they refuse to be beaten. No team has drawn more than the Tiimi Y’ekibuga’s two stalemates this term. They frustrated Mutoola and Buganda Royal the last time out and will arrive in Njeru hoping to challenge the early pace setters for the three points.
St Lawrence BSC Vs Mengo Hill
St. Lawrence will fancy their chances against a Mengo Hill side that has lost all its four matches and conceded the highest number of goals (33). The defending champions were superbly held to a 5-5 draw by Kiringente the previous outing and slightly fell off from the top of the tree, but may find this tie a walk in the park given the hefty gulf in quality and experience which exists between the two teams. Therefore a fourth win will be a welcome sight as the race for the top spots starts to take ground.
Wolves Vs Kiringente
Kiringente is one of the three teams still looking to pick up their first league win but face Wolves who are equally in the same struggle. Kiringente is on the other hand expected to come out of this out of form bout with maximum points having shown improvement in their five all stalemate against St. Lawrence.
Sunday’s action will conclude with Grace Church playing MS Sand Lions, St. Lawrence will also step in the sand again against KJT, while Wolves will draw the curtains down with Mengo Hill at 5pm.
Ref Kennedy Kawagga (left) receiving his equipments from the FUFA president
Four FIFA certified beach soccer referees have received their badges and equipments for the year of 2024.
The approved referees included; Ivan Kintu Bayige, Muhammad Ssenteza, Kennedy Bazirio Kawagga and Joel Chote Munyendoh.
These were awarded badges at the function presided over by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo at FUFA Complex in Mengo, Kampala on Tuesday 30th January.
Bayige and Ssenteza have been at the FIFA standard since 2015, Kawagga received his first FIFA listing in 2019 while Munyendoh received his first international badge in 2022.
