NSEREKO H. KAWUMA
Kampala Queens is one of the powerhouses of women’s football in Uganda, largely due to its strong financial backing. The club has the ability to sign any player it desires within Uganda, offering enticing sign-on fees, monthly salaries and substantial bonuses. As a result, the team’s owners, officials, fans and women’s football enthusiasts have high expectations.
However, despite the aforementioned advantages, the team has struggled with inconsistent performances. Even when results were positive, the overall style of play left much to be desired. Since its inception, Kampala Queens has cycled through several coaches, including Faridah Bulega, Hamza Lutalo, Charles Ssenyange “Kadidi,” and Charles Ayiekoh, yet none managed to bring the desired stability and success.
On November 4, 2024, the club appointed Ethiopian coach Asefa Firew Hailegebreal. At the time of his unveiling, Kampala Queens had collected just nine points from five games trailing table leaders Kawempe Muslim Ladies by four points. However, under his leadership, the team has undergone a remarkable transformation, winning 10 of the 11 games since his arrival and drawing the other against She Maroons. They now sit comfortably at the top of the table, eight points ahead of second-placed Kawempe, with a game in hand and six matches left to conclude the season.
Several factors have contributed to this turnaround:
Professionalism
Insiders reveal that everything at the club, both on and off the pitch, is well-planned and executed with a high level of professionalism. This structured approach has greatly influenced the team’s success.
Strong Coach-Player Bond
Asefa has taken full control of the dressing room, fostering a strong relationship with his players. The bond is evident in both training sessions and matches with players giving their all for him. As the saying goes, “players play for their coach,” and the commitment of Kampala Queens’ squad to their gaffer is undeniable.
Teamwork Mentality
Asefa has instilled a deep sense of teamwork among players and club officials. Everyone shares responsibility for both victories and defeats, creating a spirit of synergy that has propelled the team forward.
Discipline
Player discipline has significantly improved under Asefa’s leadership. His influence is evident, with players remaining focused and following his instructions diligently. A unique example of this discipline is seen during water breaks, where players kneel while drinking water. Insiders claim that he constantly reminds them to uphold grace and conduct themselves respectfully as young women.
Motivation and Player Rejuvenation
The team’s players are highly motivated, consistently giving their best on the pitch. This renewed energy has led to the resurgence of several players who had been struggling, including Shamirah Nalugya, Kamiyat Naigaga (renowned as the “super substitute”), Jamilah Nabulime, new signing Peace Muduwa and goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro all of whom are performing exceptionally well this season.
Playing Style and Tactical Authority
Asefa has introduced an exciting and effective style of play, making Kampala Queens a dominant force in the league. He has full authority over the team and enjoys solid support from his backroom staff, who have played a crucial role in helping him adapt to Ugandan football. Asefa allows his players to express themselves playing without pressure. One day he was seen cautioning Zainah Nandede who went furious after a colleague failed to deliver to her expectations.
Considering all these factors, Kampala Queens appears unstoppable and all indications point toward them being crowned Finance Trust Bank Women’s Super League champions.
The big question remains, can Asefa elevate Kampala Queens to dominance both on the regional and on the continental stage?
