Uganda Cup R16 | Tuesday 18th March, 2025 | 3 PM
- Lugazi FC Vs SC Villa – Lugazi, Najjembe
- KCCA FC Vs Rwenzori Lions FC – Lugogo
- BUL FC Vs Total FC – FTC, Njeru
As Lugazi FC gears up for their biggest challenge yet in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16, defender Emmanuel Obua is brimming with confidence.
With nine-time champions SC Villa visiting the Lugazi FC Stadium – Najjembe on Tuesday, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But for Obua, this is just another game, another challenge to overcome.
“They have won this trophy nine times, but we won’t fear them. We will treat this match like any other. We have experienced players who have lifted this cup before, and we are ready to guide our teammates through this game,” said Obua, exuding the quiet assurance of a player ready for battle.
Lugazi FC has been in red-hot form, winning five of their last six matches with the only blemish being a 2-0 loss to NEC FC.
Their most recent 3-1 victory over Mbale Heroes showcased their attacking prowess, proving they have what it takes to go toe-to-toe with Uganda’s football giants.
For a team making its first-ever appearance in the Round of 16, there’s an undeniable buzz around the squad.
Having dispatched Mayuge United (2-0) and Calvary FC (2-0) in the earlier rounds, Lugazi FC has shown discipline in defence and efficiency in attack, two qualities they will need against SC Villa.
SC Villa, Uganda’s most decorated club, is no stranger to big matches. They last lifted the Uganda Cup in 2015 and are eager to reclaim past glory.
After back-to-back league defeats, they bounced back with a 3-1 win over Bright Stars, signalling their intent. Their journey to this stage included a 3-0 victory over Seeta United and a narrow 1-0 win against Simba FC.
Obua believes that Lugazi’s recent form, coupled with home advantage, gives them the edge.
“We drew against SC Villa in the league but we created many chances that we didn’t convert. Now that we are scoring at will, I think our chances of going through are very high,” he emphasized.
His words echo the sentiments of Head Coach Gerald Efiti, who remains optimistic;
“The morale is high, and the boys are growing in confidence. We are at home, and our chances of qualification stand at 80%.”
Lugazi FC has received a boost with the return of winger Alvin Birungi Twine and defender Akiram Massa, both fully fit after recovering from injuries. However, vice-captain Nelson Mandela is unlikely to feature due to personal reasons.
On the other side SC Villa who are searching for their 10th Uganda Cup title will be without their Captain Ronald Ssekiganda who is away with the National team in Cairo just like Patrick Jonah Kakande.
Other games on the day will see joint ten-time Champions with Express FC, KCCA host Rwenzori Lions in Lugogo after the stubborn Total FC visit FTC in Njeru to take on BUL.
The 51st edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup, co-sponsored by Plascon Uganda, is not just a fight for silverware but also serves as a platform for young players to showcase their skills.
