Kampala Queens FC return to action this Saturday with a trip to Masindi, where they will face Lady Doves FC on Match Day 20 of the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League. The encounter at Katusabe Grounds presents an opportunity for the Queens of Soccer to respond strongly and reignite their campaign as the season nears its finish.
The team concluded its final training session in Kampala on Friday morning before setting off for Masindi, with the technical team confirming an 18-player travelling squad. The mood within the camp remains focused and determined as the players look to overcome a recent dip in form and rediscover their winning rhythm.
Head Coach Firew Hailegabreal acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and mindset. He emphasized that despite Lady Doves’ competitiveness, Kampala Queens have put in the work required to compete at the highest level.
“We are fully focused on the task at hand,” the coach noted. “Lady Doves is a tough side, especially playing at home, but we’ve prepared well. The girls are in good condition, both physically and mentally, and we are looking forward to putting in a strong performance.”
Head to head statistics favor the Queens. Across the last nine meetings with Lady Doves FC, they remain unbeaten, recording seven wins and two draws.
Kampala Queens head into this fixture seeking a turnaround in results, having endured a difficult run in recent matches with the last victory against Uganda Martyrs WFC a month ago.
“We know the results haven’t gone our way recently,” Hailegabreal admitted. “But this is football — moments like these are part of the journey. What matters is how you respond. The players are hungry, motivated and determined to turn things around. We are taking it one game at a time and this match gives us a perfect opportunity to start that shift.”
One of the key concerns for the Queens has been their struggles in front of goal. With just one goal scored in the last four matches, the technical team has placed significant emphasis on improving attacking efficiency during all training sessions.
“We’ve been creating chances, which is a positive,” he explained. “The missing piece has been converting those opportunities. We’ve worked a lot on our finishing in training, focusing on composure and decision-making in the final third. The players understand the responsibility, and we believe they are ready to deliver.”
The Queens are currently paced third of the table with 32 points. Whe he was aked if this worries him, Hailegabreal responsded honourably;
“Our focus now is on finishing strong, we want to gather as many points as possible and push for a respectable position on the table. At the same time, we are building for the future by giving our younger players valuable experience. These moments are important for their growth and for the long-term vision of the club.”
On the inclusion of more young players in the travelling squad—particularly with several stepping into more prominent roles following the absence of some senior players from the final squad for the trip to Masindi—the coach views it as both a challenge and an opportunity for the team to evolve.
“It’s a chance for the young players to step up and show what they can do. They bring energy, hunger, and a fresh perspective to the team. We trust them, and we believe they can make a real impact. The objective doesn’t change — we want to leave Masindi with points.”
Travelling Squad to Masindi:
Gloria Namakula, Sharon Kaidu, Catherine Wujja, Moureen Kimono, Esther Namusoke, Marion Amangat, Jamila Nabulime, Jolly Kobusingye, Miriam Nakayiwa, Teddy Najjuma, Zaitun Namaganda, Loyce Komugisha, Shamusa Najjuma, Joan Ainembabazi, Rinah Ariho, Esther Ainembabazi, Peace Muduwa, Sumaya Namulondo.
