Tuesday, 25th February 2025
Stanbic Uganda Cup – Round of 32
Mabira TC vs URA FC – 3 PM @ Nyakasanga Playground, Kasese
URA FC will be looking to book their place in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 when they take on Kitara Regional League side Mabira TC this afternoon at Nyakasanga Playground in Kasese.
The Tax Collectors arrived in Kasese on Sunday evening and have since conducted two training sessions to acclimatize to the hot conditions ahead of the crucial knockout fixture.
Head coach Alex Isabirye remains optimistic about his side’s chances of progression but acknowledges the challenge of facing an unfamiliar opponent. He emphasized the importance of the first 15 minutes in understanding Mabira TC’s approach before taking full control of the game.
“We don’t know much about them, but we’ll use the opening quarter-hour to study their strengths and weaknesses. However, we are prepared for any challenge and want to progress to the next round,” Isabirye stated.
Right-back Justin Opiro has also expressed readiness for the game, rallying his teammates to fight for victory regardless of who gets the nod in the starting XI.
Team News.
URA FC will be without key players, including Joshua Lubwama, Shariph Kimbowa, Emmanuel Oketch, Denis Kisiriko who scored in the previous game in Kalongo, Shafiq Lugolobi and Isma Mugulusi. However, they welcome back Moses Aliro, James Begisa and captain Enock Walusimbi who all missed the Round of 64 tie due to national team commitments.
Previous Round Performance.
URA FC advanced from the Round of 64 after a tense penalty shootout win over Kalongo United in Agago District. The game ended 1-1 in normal time, with goalkeeper Derrick Ochan emerging as the hero with crucial penalty saves in the 2-1 shootout victory.
With a place in the Round of 16 at stake, URA FC will be eager to assert their dominance against Mabira TC and avoid any cup upset.