David GOMBE
SC Villa will welcome newly promoted Kitara FC in the opening game of the 2023/24 Uganda Premier league campaign at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku on Friday.
The 16 time Uganda Premier league champions will be seeking to start the campaign with maximum points as they aim to end their 20 year wait without a league title.
Last season, SC Villa surrendered the league title on the final day of the season with Vipers SC prevailing.
Kitara FC on the other hand secured a return to the topflight after finishing top of the FUFA Big League last season.
Under former UPDF FC tactician Brian Ssenyondo Hoima based side will be aiming for a perfect start.
SC Villa head coach Dusan Stojanovic is optimistic that his side will pounce on Friday
“We’re on a mission to revive our badge’s pride and seek support from the Jogoos family. We promise to fight relentlessly and bring joy. Despite strong opposition, our focus remains unwavering. Together, we’ll restore our badge’s pride, never giving up, determined to prove ourselves as One team.“
Said Stojanovic
Team news
SC Villa will be without defender Edward Masembe, Patrick Jonah Kakande, Umar Lutalo, Ronald Ssekiganda and Denis Ojara due to respective injuries.
New signings Diego Ssemugera, Abas Kyeyune, Charles Lwanga, Hakima Kiwanuka, Gavin Kizito and Elvis Ngonde are expected to take part.
Kitara have been busy in the transfer market and will look up to new signings Jude Semugabi, Brian Aheebwa, Frank Tumwesigye alias Zaga, Benjamin Nyakoojo and George Ssenkaaba for inspiration.
Head to Head
This will be only the second meeting between the two sides having previously faced off in 2020/21 season. SC Villa won the contest 3-2.
Match day One Fixtures:
•SC Villa vs Kitara – Mutesa II stadium, Wankulukuku Live on TV
•Bright Stars vs BUL – Kavumba Recreation Ground
•Mbarara City vs NEC – Kakyeka stadium
Sunday Sept 17, Kick off 3pm
•Wakiso Giants vs Maroons – Kabaka Kyabaggu
•Gaddafi vs Vipers – Gaddafi Arena, Jinja Live on TV
•Arua Hill vs Busoga United – Paridi stadium, Adjumani 2pm
•UPDF vs URA – Bombo Military Barracks Grounds
