Magogo Faces Fresh Criticism Amid Match-Fixing Allegations
Moses Magogo, the president of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), is facing growing criticism and match-fixing allegations after Uganda Cranes delivered a lackluster performance in their 2-0 defeat to South Africa in the Group K Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Friday, November 15, 2024.
The defeat at the Mandela National Stadium has sparked outrage among fans and analysts, with many questioning the team’s tactical approach and the role of FUFA in ensuring integrity in the game.
After a goalless first half, South Africa’s tactical substitutions changed the game, with Thapelo Morena scoring in the 49th minute. Uganda’s response, including introducing Steven Mukwala and Bobosi Byaruhanga in the 56th minute, failed to yield results.
South Africa’s Pule Maswanganyi sealed the victory with an 89th-minute strike, leaving Uganda second in the group standings.
Despite the loss, Uganda and South Africa have already qualified for the 2025 AFCON finals. However, the game has reignited concerns over the state of Ugandan football under Magogo’s leadership.
Fans and insiders have raised suspicions about the lack of urgency displayed by the Cranes during the match. The allegations have been amplified by Magogo’s controversial history, including prior accusations of misconduct in football governance.
A source close to the team, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged, “There’s a pattern emerging. These performances raise questions, and Magogo’s administration hasn’t done enough to clear the air about the integrity of these games.”
Critics have pointed to Magogo’s reported focus on consolidating power within FUFA and sidelining dissenting voices in football as potential factors contributing to the Cranes’ struggles on the pitch.
The loss has sparked widespread anger among Ugandan fans, many of whom took to social media to express frustration. Some questioned the players’ commitment, while others called for investigations into the team’s preparation and tactical execution.
“Something doesn’t add up. This game just screams match fixing,” one fan commented.
The allegations have intensified calls for greater transparency in FUFA’s operations and decision-making processes.
Some stakeholders are demanding an independent inquiry into the match to determine if external factors influenced the outcome.
“Ugandan football deserves better. The integrity of the game must be protected at all costs,” said a sports analyst.
Uganda faces Congo in their final Group K match on Tuesday, November 19, with an opportunity to secure three points and rebuild confidence ahead of the AFCON finals. However, the shadow of match-fixing allegations and dissatisfaction with Magogo’s leadership could overshadow the team’s preparations.
The final group matches will determine standings, but for many Ugandan fans, the pressing issue is not the scoreline, but the integrity of their football governing body.
