Football
Denis Kalanzi: The meteoric rise of a Ugandan footballer now at University of Maryland in the US
Young talented Ugandan footballer Denis Kalanzi has steadily carved his path from humble beginnings at a local soccer academy (Streamline) to earning a life-changing bursary at the University of Maryland in the United States.
The former Police Football Club player opens up about his journey, struggles, and ambitions.
Humble start:
Kalanzi was born on 12th December 2006. His enticing football story commenced at Streamline Soccer Academy.
By this time, he was studying at Bethel Junior School under the guidance of Coach Robert Tugume.
“I began my football journey at Streamline Soccer Academy with Bethel Junior School under Coach Robert Tugume,” he vividly recounts.
Those formative years laid the foundation for his discipline and love for the game, despite the challenges they faced.
Overcoming Challenges
Like many young players in Uganda, 19-year old Kalanzi’s early journey was far from easy.
“We struggled a lot because our coach didn’t have sponsors, yet we were many players. It was difficult, but we kept hoping that one day life would change,” he explains.
He credits Coach Tugume for instilling resilience and strong fundamentals.
“He gave us a very good foundation and raised many players. I pray God rewards him accordingly.” Kalanzi confesses.
Breakthrough at Police Football Club:
In 2023, Kalanzi joined Police FC, then in the FUFA Big League as an academy graduate and quickly made an impact.
“I was MVP as Police got promoted to the Uganda Premier League. I appreciate Coach Simon Peter Mugerwa for trusting me and giving me enough playing time.” He lauds.
Adjusting to top-flight football proved challenging at first, but he grew into his role.
“My first season in the top league was tough, but my last season under Coach Matia Lule was exciting. I believe that period helped me secure the scholarship.” He adds.
Off the pitch, Police FC became more than just a club. “They supported me during hard times. The club will always be my family.”
A Life-Changing Opportunity:
Kalanzi’s big break came when he received a call from a soccer agent in the United States of America (USA).
I was so excited. When I learned about the University of Maryland, he (agent) told me about the school and I was so interested because I saw this as a very big opportunity that would change my life and my family at large.
Denis Kalanzi, footballer
Balancing Football and Academics:
Now in the United States of America, Kalanzi is embracing both education and sport.
“Balancing academics and football is easier here because the schedule caters for both. There is time for sports and time for classes.” He speaks up.
Growth and Exposure:
Kalanzi believes the move will significantly improve his game.
Playing in the United States will improve my game and exposure. Here, I have access to better facilities and experienced coaches. The game is more technical, and teams have different approaches. I want to learn and improve.
Denis Kalanzi
Mentors and Inspirations:
Kalanzi acknowledges the people who have shaped his journey, including former teammates such as Kilyowa George, Kasumba Umaru, Saidi Kyeyune, Rogers Mugisha, Travis Mutyaba, Sentume Joseph, Ian Amanya, Kiwalazi Tonny, and Kayongo Samuel.
“Many people have played a crucial role in my growth, and I appreciate everyone who has supported me.” Kalanzi acknowledges.
Bold message to young footballers:
To aspiring players back home, Kalanzi offers simple but powerful advice:
“Focus on learning, stay committed no matter the situation, and keep dreaming big. Football can change your life.” he preaches.
Future Ambitions:
Looking ahead, the skillful anchorman has clear goals and ambitions.
“I want to play for professional clubs after graduation. Representing my country has always been my dream, and I hope to achieve it.” Kalanzi speaks of the dream.
Profile:
- Name: Denis Kalanzi
- Date of Birth: 12 December 2006
- Age: 19
- Former Club: Police FC
- Hobbies: Watching football and movies
- Favourite Dish: Rice and chicken
The post Denis Kalanzi: The meteoric rise of a Ugandan footballer now at University of Maryland in the US appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
FUFA Big League 2025/26: Match Day 30 Fixtures:
Saturday, 6th June 2026 (Kick off time is 3 PM)
- Soltilo Bright Stars Vs Kataka – Kampala (Venue to be confirmed)
- Nebbi Central Vs Paidha Black Angels – Luo stadium, Nebbi
- Bunyaruguru United Vs Kaaro Karungi – Kasese
- Kiyinda Boys Vs Ntugasaze – Mityana Ssaza ground
- Onduparaka Vs Blacks Power – Ababet Green Light Stadium, Arua
- Kigezi Homeboyz Vs CATDA – Al Madina Stadium, Kabale
- Young Elephant Academy Vs Wakiso Giants – Elephants Park, Nwoya
- Mbale Heroes Vs Iganga United – Mbale City stadium
The 2025/26 FUFA Big League season officially comes to a grand climax on Saturday, 6th June 2026.
Eight games are on card and each of the fixture is of equal relevance to the clubs in the box.
The overall champion of the season will be known, the fourth promoted club and all the four relegated clubs.
It is a battle for promotion to the Uganda Premier League for the remaining one slot that will be taken by either Eastern Uganda’s Kataka or West Nile party, Paidha Black Angels.
Equally, match day 30 will determine the champion of the league and the three other clubs to be demoted to the respective regional leagues to join already relegated Mbale Heroes.
Which is the fourth club to be promoted?
After the promotion of Kigezi Home Boyz, Blacks Power and Ntugasaze, there is one remaining slot to fight for.
This will go to either Kataka or Paidha Black Angels.
The main target will be to win our game and be assured of promotion to the top league. All the players are set for the task at hand.
Godfrey “Toldo” Awachango, Kataka Football Club head coach
With 48 points, Kataka visits Soltilo Bright Stars in Kampala on the final day seeking for maximum points.
On the other hand, Paidha Black Angels also need maximum points over fellow West Nile region side Nebbi Central at the Luo stadium with prayers that Kataka fails to win in Kampala.
Champions in waiting:
Either Kigezi Home Boyz or Blacks Power will emerge as champions for the season.
Blacks Power just needs a point from their away fixture over Onduparaka at the Ababet GreenLight Stadium to clinch the championship.
Onduparaka risks relegation if they lose with a probability that Kaaro Karungi, Soltilo Bright Stars, CATDA and Nebbi Central all win their last games.
Kigezi Home Boyz who host CATDA at the Al Madina Stadium in Kabale can also clinch the championship if they win at home and pray that Blacks Power falls in Arua to Onduparaka.
Relegation fight:
With Mbale Heroes already relegated; three more clubs shall be relegated after Saturday’s games.
Wakiso Giants (31), Soltilo Bright Stars (32), Kaaro Karungi (33), CATDA (34), Nebbi Central (34) and Onduparaka (35) are all engaged in the survival battle.
Bunyaruguru United entertains Kaaro Karungi in Kasese; Kiyinda Boys host Ntugasaze,
Kigezi Homeboyz entertains CATDA in Kabale, Young Elephant Academy hosts Wakiso Giants at the Elephants Park, Nwoya and Mbale Heroes will bid farewell to the FUFA Big League against Iganga United at the Mbale City stadium.
The four promoted clubs will join the StarTimes Uganda Premier League for the season 2026/27.
The post FUFA Big League 2025/26 climax: A thrilling final match day of the season anticipated appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
Nakaseke District Footbal Association (NDFA) 5th Division 2026 league
Week 10 Fixtures:
- Kapeke BB Vs Kikandwa War Memorial – Butikwa Playground
- Semuto United Vs Kikamulo United – Semuto Church of Uganda playground
- Mpwedde United Vs Mijinje United – Nakaseke International playground
*All games kick off at 4:00 PM
The Nakaseke District Football Association (NDFA) 5th division league comes to a grand climax this Sunday, 7th June 2026 with three games.
Week 10 has three enticing matches at various venues.
Table leaders Kikamulo United visit Semuto United at the Semuto Church of Uganda playground.
Kikamulo United has 20 points coming to this fixture, two better than Semuto United who are joint second alongside Kapeke BB.
The likes of Dan Kisakye, James Katumba and Midu Mukwaya, among others remain key actors for Kikamulo United in their title pursuit.
Kapeke BB will at the same time host Kikandwa War Memorial at the Butikwa Playground.
In the bottom of the table clash, Mpwedde United (6 points) host Mijinje United (1 point) at the Nakaseke International playground.
Already Nakaseke United could not complete the league and was relegated to the 6th division league.
Sponsors and partners:
The league is proudly sponsored by Hon. Allan Mayanja Sebunya, Speed Sports Concept, Harriet Namukwaya and Nakaseke Local Government.
Match Day 9 Results:
- Mijinje United 0-3 Kikamulo United
- Semuto United 2-0 Kikandwa War Memorial
- Mpwedde 1-4 Kapeke BB
The post Nakaseke District 5th Division 2026 football league eyes tense climax appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
Ghana’s Head Coach Carloz Queiroz has named his final 26-man squad for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and United States.
After days of intensive preparations in Cardiff, Wales, Queiroz was able to trim te team down to 26 that will represent Ghana at the global stage.
Tottenham forward Mohammed Kudus misses out due to an injury. He was expected to return in March from a quad injury suffered in January but suffered a setback and has not featured since.
Ghana will play against Wales in Cardiff on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, before flying out to Washington to continue preparations for the World Cup that kicks off on June 11, 2026.
The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 before facing England and Croatia in their Group L matches.
Goalkeepers:
Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang
Defenders:
Baba Abdul Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Marvin Senaya, Alidu Seidu, Abdul Mumin, Jerome Opoku, Jonas Adjetey, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Derrick Luckassen
Midfielders:
Elisha Owusu, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Augustine Boakye, Caleb Yirenkyi, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kamal Deen Sulemana
Forwards:
Christopher Bonsu Baah, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Prince Kwabena Adu, Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew.
The post Ghana’s final squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup named appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
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