From Ethiopia to Uganda: Hailegebreal leads Kampala Queens to the top

Kampala Queens head coach Firew Hailegebreal said his time at the Ugandan club has been successful. The FUFA Women Super League leaders are unbeaten since appointing the Ethiopian coach at the start of the season.

Hailegebreal left his role as coach of the Ethiopian women’s national team following the end of his contract. Speaking to FM 97.1, the former Dedebit Women coach stated that his dedication and hard work helped him succeed at Kampala Queens:

Hailegebreal also noted that he believes he was successful while coaching in Ethiopia. “When I was in Ethiopia, I believe that I was successful. The fans can testify to that.” Hailegebreal’s contract with the Ethiopian women’s national team was not renewed as some sections of fans questioned the decision made by the Ethiopian Football Federation. He was twice close to leading the Ethiopian U-20 women’s national team to the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Hailegebreal added that Ugandan women’s football is growing. “I’ve learned a lot during my brief stay. They are very professional. Women players in the league are well respected. They work tirelessly in schools. They invest a lot in their infrastructure.”

Kampala Queens top the league with 47 points, nine points ahead of defending champions Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC.