Express vs SC Villa: The Battle for Supremacy in Ugandan Football Returns to Nakivubo at 20k

*By John Kusolo*

This Friday evening, football fans across Uganda will be glued to the Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo as two of the country's biggest clubs, Express FC and SC Villa, face off at 7 pm. Known as the most heated rivalry in Ugandan football, this fixture brings together two powerhouses with a combined 24 league titles. SC Villa, the most successful club in Uganda’s league history with 17 titles, enters this game in 6th place with 11 points, while Express FC, the country’s oldest club currently in the league, has 7 titles and stands 11th with 9 points.

This classic rivalry not only brings pride and tradition but comes at a crucial point for both teams, as they each seek to shake off recent form issues and climb up the league table.

Express FC is coming into this clash on the back of a three-game winless streak, with their last victory occurring over a month ago against NEC FC. Interim coach Badru Kaddu knows the pressure is on, as a victory against SC Villa could solidify his case for a permanent managerial role. However, the specter of Brian Ssenyondo potentially taking over looms large if results don’t improve.

For SC Villa, the stakes are equally high. Coach Morley Byekwaso, a former player for both clubs, is under intense scrutiny from the Villa faithful, who are disappointed with the club’s stuttering title defense. Byekwaso’s recent success, a commanding 5-0 win over UPDF, ended their winless run and offers a glimmer of hope, but fans expect much more in this high-stakes derby.

Each team brings a unique set of players with the potential to sway the game in their favor.

Emmanuel Wasswa (Express FC): Former Villa captain Wasswa now dons the red of Express and will be eager to make his mark against his former club. His leadership and passion for the game have been invaluable to Express, and he’ll be a key figure in marshalling the midfield.

Sam Ssenyonjo (Express FC): With four league goals this season, Ssenyonjo’s scoring ability will be critical if Express hopes to unlock Villa’s defense. His instincts in front of the goal and agility make him a threat that Villa’s backline cannot afford to ignore.

Hakim Kiwanuka, Patrick Kakande, and Charles Lwanga (SC Villa): These three have been standout performers for Villa. Kiwanuka, in fine form, adds creativity and pace, while Kakande, the league MVP, is known for his playmaking skills and work rate. Lwanga’s versatility upfront adds depth to Villa’s attack, giving them multiple options in search of goals.

The statistics from past matchups between these two titans paint a fascinating picture. In their last 24 Premier League encounters since 2012, SC Villa has edged out Express FC, winning 13 times compared to Express’ 6 victories, with 5 draws. Villa also boasts the upper hand in recent meetings, winning the last four league encounters, with Express’s last victory over their rivals coming in 2022. This adds an extra edge to the contest, as Express seeks to break Villa's recent dominance.

Express’s form over the past 14 league matches has also been concerning, with just three wins, eight losses, and three draws. Coach Kaddu has emphasized that this home fixture is a "must-win" and urged his forwards to press early, hoping for a quick goal to unsettle Villa’s defense.

Express will likely adopt an aggressive approach, with Kaddu instructing his players to go on the offensive from the start. Quick transitions and early pressing will be key tactics as they look to keep SC Villa under pressure. Emmanuel Wasswa’s role in midfield will be pivotal, as he can help set the tempo and provide service to Ssenyonjo up front.

SC Villa, on the other hand, might look to control possession and dictate the pace of the game, exploiting Express’s recent defensive vulnerabilities. Byekwaso’s strategy will rely on his midfield trio, particularly Kakande, to keep the game in their hands and capitalize on counter-attacks. Kiwanuka’s speed on the wings and Lwanga’s presence upfront can provide SC Villa the attacking spark they need to break through Express’s defenses.

Ahead of this eagerly anticipated fixture, Express FC Interim Head Coach Kaddu didn’t mince words. He called on his team to play with urgency and emphasized the importance of an early goal, which could shift momentum in their favor. Express FC captain Emmanuel Wasswa exuded confidence, stating that his team has the quality and belief to secure a victory. He rallied his teammates to approach the game with composure, believing that they can rise to the occasion.

With both teams under considerable pressure and their coaches facing an uncertain future, Friday’s game promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The stakes are high, not only for bragging rights but also for the potential implications on both clubs' season trajectories. With passionate fans, intense rivalries, and high-quality players on both sides, all eyes will be on Nakivubo as these football giants collide.

The stage is set. The history, pride, and rivalry between Express and SC Villa add a special flavor to what promises to be an electric match under the lights of Hamz Stadium. Fans can expect a clash filled with intensity, skill, and perhaps a bit of drama, as both teams aim to prove who truly reigns supreme in Ugandan football.