Kitara FC Home in Libya v Al Hilal Benghazi
By John Kusolo
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Kitara Football Club will host the first leg of the 1st preliminary round of the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup against Al Hilal Benghazi in Libya.
The match is scheduled for Friday, August 16 at the Benina – Martyrs Stadium (artificial turf), with kick-off set for 8 pm Ugandan time.
Kitara had initially hoped to host the match in the country but unforeseen circumstances made this unworkable.
The return leg will be played at the same venue a week later.
Meanwhile, Kitara FC's President, Deo Kasozi Akiiki, has rallied his players to maintain their winning mentality after their hard-fought 1-0 victory over KCCA FC in the first leg of the FUFA Super 8 tournament. The match, played at Phillip Omondi Stadium, saw Kitara secure a vital win courtesy of a 25th-minute goal by Denis Omedi.
In his post-match address, Kasozi emphasized the importance of embracing a competitive spirit. “Embrace the competitive spirit and push yourself to new heights! Good start for the Super 8 games," he stated, encouraging his team to sustain their performance as they prepare for the return leg. The decisive second leg, set to take place in a few days, will determine which team advances to the semifinals of the FUFA Super 8, a key preparatory tournament for the upcoming Startimes Uganda Premier League Season 2024/25.
Challenges Ahead: Hosting CAF Confederations Cup Match
While Kitara FC basks in their recent victory, they face significant logistical challenges ahead of their upcoming CAF Confederations Cup fixture. The club has been forced to seek an alternative venue for their match against Libya’s Al Hilal SC Benghazi, as both Namboole Stadium and St. Mary's Kitende Stadium are unavailable.
Namboole Stadium, one of the only two stadiums approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host both the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederations Cup matches in Uganda, is currently undergoing renovations. Meanwhile, St. Mary's Kitende Stadium is booked for other events, leaving Kitara FC without a home ground for their crucial international match.
This situation has put Kitara FC in a difficult position, as they must now find a suitable venue outside Uganda to host their CAF Confederations Cup match. The club's management is actively exploring options to ensure the match goes ahead without compromising their competitive edge or the safety and comfort of the players and fans.
Looking Forward
Despite these challenges, Kitara FC remains focused on their immediate goal of advancing in the FUFA Super 8 tournament. The team's performance against KCCA FC has boosted morale and provided a solid foundation for their upcoming matches. President Kasozi's call for a sustained winning mentality resonates with both players and fans, fostering a sense of unity and determination within the club.
As the return leg of the FUFA Super 8 approaches, Kitara FC will be looking to build on their current momentum. A win in the return leg will not only secure their place in the semifinals but also serve as a testament to their resilience and capability to overcome adversity, both on and off the pitch.
Kitara FC's journey in the FUFA Super 8 and their preparations for the CAF Confederations Cup highlight the team's commitment to excellence and their ability to navigate challenges. With strong leadership from President Kasozi and a dedicated squad, Kitara FC is poised to achieve new heights in Ugandan football.
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