Uganda to face Tanzania, Seychelles in CECAFA Beach Soccer group stage

Sand Cranes Group Stage Fixtures

July 17
Uganda vs Tanzania (4:30 PM)

July 18
Seychelles vs Uganda  (1:30 PM)

Uganda’s national beach soccer team, the Sand Cranes, has been drawn in Group B of the inaugural CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship. 

The regional tournament will take place from July 16 to 2025 at Pirates Beach in Mombasa, Kenya. The official draw was announced by CECAFA Executive Director, Auka Gecheo.

In the group stage, Uganda will face Tanzania and Seychelles. Group A features hosts Kenya, along with Malawi, Burundi, and Zanzibar. The Sand Cranes will kick off their campaign on 17th July against Tanzania, who will have already played Seychelles on the opening day.

Uganda will then complete their group stage matches on 18th July with a fixture against Seychelles.

Uganda’s preparations for the tournament began in late May at the Bamboo Gardens Beach Soccer Arena in Kasanje, located in Wakiso District. The team is under the leadership of head coach Arch Rica Byaruhanga, supported by assistants Akabwai Geofrey and Baker Lukooya. The squad consists of 22 players selected from clubs, universities, and schools across the country.

The team features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. Among the notable names are Kikonyogo Jonathan from St. Lawrence University and Kibirige Meddie from Kampala City BSC. 

Three promising young players from secondary schools have also been included in the national team after shining at the 2024 USSSA Ball Games II. Edweu Godfrey, a striker from Teso College Aloet, scored an impressive 13 goals during the tournament. 

Niwesasira Sison from Standard High School Zzana played a key role in helping his school win the national title. Kuol Michael from London College of St. Lawrence was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Their selection reflects Uganda’s growing focus on youth development in beach soccer.

The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Mutebi Ronald, Kasibante Edward, and Omedwa Rogers. The attacking line will be led by Kigozi Ambrose and Lubwama Joshua, while Oppuuli Sharif and Mukwata Peter will provide strength and experience in defense.

This year’s CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship has attracted seven teams from across East and Central Africa. It marks a major step forward in promoting beach soccer in the region. 

CECAFA has also scheduled several other major tournaments for the year, including the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup, the Dar Port Kagame Cup, the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA qualifiers, and the AFCON U-17 CECAFA qualifiers.
Group A
Kenya
Malawi
Burundi
Zanzibar

Group B
Uganda
Tanzania
Seychelles