2025/26 Uganda Premier League | MD 15 | Saturday January 31
- SC Villa 0-0 Lugazi FC
Lugazi FC produced a disciplined and spirited display to hold SC Villa to a goalless draw on Saturday evening at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, denying the Jogoos back to back Uganda Premier League victories.
Villa arrived buoyed by a thumping 6–1 win over Mbarara City and were widely tipped to collect maximum points.
Instead, they ran into a well-drilled Lugazi side that defended with purpose and refused to buckle under pressure.
The Jogoos started on the front foot, dominating possession and pushing forward early, but Lugazi stayed compact and organised, limiting Villa to hopeful efforts rather than clear chances.
The first half lacked rhythm, disrupted by a series of stoppages. Lugazi were forced into an early change when Derrick Mwanje was stretchered off and replaced by Solomon Okwalinga, while several heavy collisions further slowed the tempo.
Referee Atiku Rahuman kept control as the game grew more physical, booking Amos Etoju and Abdul Kalanzi for Lugazi.
Despite enjoying most of the ball, Villa went into the break frustrated, unable to break down Lugazi’s stubborn back line.
The pattern continued after halftime. Villa introduced fresh legs in search of a breakthrough, but Lugazi responded by tightening their defensive shape.
The hosts circulated the ball neatly and camped in Lugazi’s half, yet clear chances remained scarce.
As time wore on, Lugazi’s resistance stood out. Goalkeeper Allan Igama Batali commanded his area confidently, while Richard Ayiko led the defence with authority, repeatedly cutting out danger.
Villa piled on the pressure in the closing stages, but Lugazi’s defence held firm, forcing speculative attempts that never truly tested the goalkeeper.
Three minutes of added time brought no breakthrough, and the final whistle confirmed a valuable point for Lugazi.
Ayiko’s commanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award, reflecting Lugazi’s collective resolve.
The draw leaves SC Villa fourth on 30 points, missing the chance to climb the table, while Lugazi finish the first round 11th with 15 points.
