Saturday, 20 June, was a special day for Uganda Cranes Norway as we welcomed our brothers from the UK, the London Cranes, for the Coach Kassim Baghdad Memorial Cup in Oslo.
The day brought together football, friendship, remembrance, and community spirit. On the pitch, the players gave everything, showing passion, discipline, teamwork, and the competitive energy that makes these gatherings memorable. But as always with the Cranes family, the event was about much more than the final whistle.
The Memorial Cup was played in honour of the late Coach Kassim Baghdad, whose contribution to the Ugandan football community continues to be remembered with respect and gratitude. Events like this remind us that football is not only a sport. It is also a way of keeping legacies alive, bringing people together, and strengthening the bonds between Ugandans and friends of Uganda across Europe.
After the match, the atmosphere continued in the park, where players, supporters, families, and friends had time to connect, laugh, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. It was beautiful to see people from different places come together in such a relaxed and welcoming environment. The social moments after the game were just as important as the football itself.
Later in the evening, the celebration moved into town, where the community continued the day with good music, good energy, and great company at one of Oslo’s lively spots. It was the perfect way to close a day filled with sport, unity, and togetherness.
Uganda Cranes Norway would like to thank the London Cranes for making the trip, everyone who played, supported, organised, photographed, and contributed to making the Coach Kassim Baghdad Memorial Cup a success. Your presence and energy made the day special.
This was more than a football match. It was a celebration of community, friendship, and legacy.
We look forward to many more moments like this.
For the Cranes. For the community. For the legacy.
