*By John Kusolo*
Uganda's representatives in continental football competitions, Kitara FC and SC Villa, faced tough challenges in their respective CAF Confederation Cup and CAF Champions League preliminary round matches this past weekend. Both teams exhibited moments of promise but ultimately fell short, setting up difficult return leg scenarios as they aim to progress to the next round.
*Kitara FC vs. Al Hilal Benghazi: A Brave Fight but a Narrow Defeat*
Kitara FC, the pride of Uganda's Western region, made their debut in the CAF Confederation Cup with a dramatic encounter against Libyan side Al Hilal Benghazi. The match, played on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the Benina Martyrs Stadium in Benghazi, Libya, ended in a 3-2 defeat for the Ugandan side.
The game started on a tough note for Kitara, as they struggled to contain the pace and precision of Al Hilal Benghazi. Ugandan international and Al Hilal player Muhamed Shaban opened the scoring for the Libyan club, showing his quality against his compatriots. Talha Rizq doubled the advantage before halftime, leaving Kitara with a mountain to climb.
Kitara's challenge intensified when their goalkeeper, Crispus Kusiima, was shown a red card early in the second half. Despite being down to 10 men, Kitara demonstrated resilience. Brian Ahebwa pulled one back, giving the visitors hope. However, a penalty converted by Al Hilal’s captain Faisal Al-Badru restored the two-goal cushion, making it 3-1. Kitara’s fighting spirit was on full display when Denis Omedi scored their second goal in the 79th minute, but it was too late to complete the comeback.
The 3-2 loss means Kitara FC must win by at least two goals in the return leg on Friday, August 23, 2024, to advance to the next round. With the second leg also set to take place at the Benina Martyrs Stadium, Kitara will be aiming to overturn the deficit in what promises to be a challenging encounter on foreign soil.
*SC Villa vs. CBE: A Difficult Return to Continental Football*
SC Villa, one of Uganda’s most decorated football clubs, returned to the CAF Champions League after a nine-year absence. Their first-leg clash against Ethiopian side CBE, held at the Mandela National Stadium in Namboole on Saturday, August 17, 2024, ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat for the Ugandan champions.
The game was marked by an intense atmosphere, with Villa fans eager to see their team shine on the continental stage once again. The home side started well, with a spirited display that saw them get a goal through Elvis Ngonde after trailing 0-2. Ngonde’s solo effort brought the stadium to life, as Villa looked to capitalize on their momentum.
However, the Ethiopians quickly regrouped and began to control the midfield.Despite creating several chances, Villa could not find a way back into the game, and the match ended in a 2-1 defeat.
With the return leg scheduled for next week in Ethiopia, SC Villa now faces the daunting task of overturning the deficit away from home. They will need a composed and clinical performance to keep their continental dream alive.
*The Road Ahead: A Test of Character*
Both Kitara FC and SC Villa now face uphill battles in their respective CAF competitions. For Kitara, their task is clear: they must find a way to score at least two goals in Libya to keep their Confederation Cup hopes alive. With their away goals in the first leg providing a slight advantage, they will need to approach the game with determination and tactical discipline.
SC Villa, on the other hand, must summon all their experience and resilience as they travel to Ethiopia. A win by a two-goal margin would see them through to the next round, but they will be up against a CBE side brimming with confidence after their victory in Uganda.
For Ugandan football, these continental encounters are more than just matches—they are opportunities to showcase the talent and passion of the nation on the African stage. As the return legs approach, fans will be hoping that their clubs can rise to the occasion and continue their journey in these prestigious tournaments.
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