The Player Spotlight is a feature by the FUFA Communications Department that offers bold and in-depth conversations with female footballers. It explores mindset, motivation, defining moments, and personal reflections. The segment reveals the person behind the player.
In this week’s spotlight feature, Long-serving Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC defender Samalie Nakacwa shares insights about her football career.
FUFA COMM: First, you wear shirt number 9, which is typically associated with strikers. As a right back, what made you choose shirt number 9, and does it bring any extra motivation on the pitch?
SAMALIE: I began my career as a striker, proudly wearing shirt 9. When the coaches shifted my position to right back, I decided to stick with my trusted shirt number.
Yah, shirt 9 motivates me to work harder because it strikes fear into opponents, driving me to prove myself and deliver on the pitch.
FUFA COMM: What has kept you loyal to Kawempe Muslim for so many years, almost 7?
SAMALIE: Kawempe has played a huge role in shaping me into the player I am today. Starting my serious football journey here in senior one was a turning point in my life. I’m grateful for the foundation they have given me up to date. Kawempe is more than a team; it’s home.
FUFA COMM: You have worked with coach Ayub Khalifa for all that period. How would you describe him, and how has his guidance impacted your development as a player?
SAMALIE: I don’t have words to express my gratitude. Coach Ayub has done a lot for me; he’s like a parent to me, always guiding me and pushing me to be my best. The entire coaching team at Kawempe has played a massive role in my development as a player on and off the pitch. I am forever grateful for their support and mentorship.
FUFA COMM: Your trophy cabinet is quite impressive. Which title stands out as your favourite, and what made it so special?
SAMALIE: The 2023/2024 league title is one I’ll will always cherish, it was our first title since the league had been rebranded from FWEL to FWSL, and to win on the final day, defeating Kampala Queens 2-0, with me contributing an assist, made it an unforgettable moment!
FUFA COMM: With all your successes, the FUFA Women’s Cup still eludes you. Does the wait feel frustrating, or its just a matter of time?
SAMALIE: It’s really frustrating, we’ve had a very good team over the years, but I don’t know why we have yet to win it, we were so close last season, reaching the final. Like you have said, maybe it’s a matter of time. We’ll try again this season and see if we can make it happen.
FUFA COMM: You have played with some of the most talented forwards in the league over time, who would you trust to take a last-minute penalty to win a game?
SAMALIE: Quite many, but Agnes Nabukenya is clinical from the spot, she doesn’t miss!
FUFA COMM: Lastly, how has football impacted your life outside football?
SAMALIE: Football has opened so many doors for me, and it’s amazing to see people support me just because I’m playing for Kawempe. There are definitely benefits of being a footballer, opportunities you’d miss out on if you weren’t in the game, like travelling outside the country representing Kawempe and Uganda on bigger stages, and meeting new people along the way.
