By John Kusolo
This Saturday, 14th September 2024, marks a significant milestone for Lugazi FC as they host Kitara FC in their StarTimes Uganda Premier League (SUPL) debut. The match, set to take place at the Lugazi Stadium in Najjembe, will see newly promoted Lugazi FC take on the seasoned Kitara FC, with both teams eager to begin their campaigns on a high note.
*Lugazi FC: A New Chapter Begins*
Lugazi FC, under the stewardship of Saddiq Ssempigi, will be keen to make a positive start in their first-ever appearance in Uganda’s top-flight football. Following their promotion from the FUFA Big League, Lugazi FC have been busy reinforcing their squad, with the recent addition of Akiram Massa, a promising 19-year-old defender. Massa, a product of Mbale’s football academies and former player for Red Star FC, has shown immense potential, scoring eight goals from defense last season. His versatility and work ethic make him a valuable addition to Lugazi FC’s ranks.
Massa expressed his enthusiasm for joining Lugazi FC, stating, “I have been following Lugazi FC. They play good football, I love their style and I am proud to join them. The players here are hardworking, and such an environment provides the challenge I need to grow and develop into an elite footballer.”
The team will look to channel that energy and ambition into a strong start on Saturday, playing in front of their home fans at the Lugazi Stadium. Saddiq Ssempigi will be aiming to set a solid foundation, but the challenge posed by Kitara FC will be formidable.
*Kitara FC: Royals Seek Strong Start*
Kitara FC, led by head coach Brian Ssenyondo, will enter the match with confidence, buoyed by their solid pre-season preparations and the form of their key players. The Royals, who finished strongly in last season’s campaign, will be eager to make an early statement in the SUPL and show they are capable of competing at the highest level.
The club received a boost with the successful international duty of Jude Ssemugabi and Denis Omedi, who represented the national team without sustaining any injuries. However, the availability of these star players will be confirmed by Ssenyondo during his pre-match interview on Friday.
Despite these positives, Kitara will be missing several key players due to injuries. Defenders Benjamin Nyakoojo and Dudu Ramadan remain on the sidelines, recovering from injuries sustained during the pre-season. Monday Denis, who picked up a knock during a friendly against Kinyara FC last weekend, will also miss this match. Additionally, George Senkaaba is on compassionate leave but is expected to rejoin the team next week.
On a brighter note, Frank Yiga, who missed much of last season with a muscle injury, is back in training and ready for selection. Kitara FC’s new signings, who have impressed during the pre-season, could also make their debuts if selected for the game.
*A Clash of Styles*
Both teams will bring contrasting styles to the pitch. Lugazi FC, with their fresh energy and a mix of youth and experience, will aim to impose their game and give their home fans a performance to remember. Kitara FC, on the other hand, will rely on their experience in the league, with a disciplined approach and tactical awareness under the guidance of coach Brian Ssenyondo.
The match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams having plenty to prove. For Lugazi FC, a victory would mark a dream start in their debut season, while Kitara FC will want to establish themselves early as contenders in the league.
As the StarTimes Uganda Premier League 2024/25 season kicks off, all eyes will be on Lugazi Stadium for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between Lugazi FC and Kitara FC. With new signings eager to make their mark and experienced players ready to showcase their skills, both teams have much to gain from a strong start. Fans of both clubs will be hoping for an exciting match, full of passion and ambition, as they set the tone for the season ahead. Whether Lugazi can rise to the occasion in their SUPL debut or Kitara will impose their top-flight experience remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Saturday’s clash will be a spectacle to remember.
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