Matchday 14 Preview: Maroons FC vs. Mbale Heroes FC – Jackson Nunda's Return Highlights Thursday Clash

By John Kusolo

The Prisons Ground in Luzira will host an exciting clash on Thursday, January 2, 2025, as 5th-placed Maroons FC welcome 15th-placed Mbale Heroes FC in a Matchday 14 fixture of the Startimes Uganda Premier League. The match, scheduled for 4:00 pm, promises a thrilling encounter between two sides aiming to end the first round of the league on a high note.

Maroons FC: Building Momentum

Maroons FC are heading into this match with renewed confidence following their impressive 2-1 victory over Police FC at Kavumba Recreation Centre. The Luzira-based side is currently 5th on the league table, having accumulated 19 points from 13 games.

The big news for the Maroons camp is the return of star midfielder Jackson Nunda, who has been cleared to play after being sidelined due to an injury. Nunda, a pivotal player in Maroons' midfield, has already netted two goals this season and is expected to bring creativity and control to the team. However, the side will still be without forward Darious Ojok, who remains unavailable as he continues his rehabilitation.

Coach Mohammed Ssenfuma will be hoping his team can capitalize on the home advantage and Nunda's return to consolidate their position in the top half of the table.

Mbale Heroes FC: A Fight for Survival

On the other hand, Mbale Heroes FC are battling to escape the relegation zone. The team sits in 15th place with just 9 points from 13 games, and their recent 0-4 loss to league leaders Vipers SC at home further deepened their struggles.

The team is undergoing significant changes, with interim head coach Mubarak Wamboya Abu appointed to oversee the remaining two games of the first round following the suspension of head coach Asaph Mwebaze. Wamboya will be supported by assistant coaches Frank Ssenagala and Juma Miburo.

This match will serve as a litmus test for Wamboya’s tactical acumen as he seeks to inspire his side to pull off an upset against the in-form Maroons. A win would be a massive boost for Mbale Heroes as they fight to avoid dropping further down the table.

This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Maroons FC and Mbale Heroes FC, adding an extra layer of excitement to the matchup.

Jackson Nunda's Impact: The return of Nunda is a significant boost for Maroons, and all eyes will be on how his creativity influences the game.

Mbale Heroes’ Struggles: With just 9 points in 13 games, Mbale Heroes must find a way to secure points in Luzira if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone.

Coaching Dynamics: Interim coach Mubarak Wamboya will be keen to make his mark in his short stint, while Maroons coach Mohammed Ssenfuma will aim to build on his team’s recent successes.

Date: Thursday, January 2, 2025

Kickoff Time: 4:00 pm

Venue: Prisons Ground, Luzira

Entry Fee: UGX 10,000

What to Expect

Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest, with Maroons expected to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities, especially with Jackson Nunda back in the fold. Mbale Heroes, however, may adopt a defensive approach while relying on counter-attacks to exploit gaps in the Maroons’ defense.

With both teams having much to play for, Thursday’s encounter at Luzira promises to be an enthralling spectacle for Ugandan football fans.