URA FC return to action this afternoon with a high-stakes Uganda Cup quarterfinal clash against KCCA FC at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, with head coach Hussein Mbalangu rallying his troops for a disciplined and determined performance.
The Tax Collectors booked their place in the last eight with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tapoh, continuing a solid run in the competition where they are yet to concede a goal.
Despite an earlier scare that required a penalty shootout to eliminate Blacks Power in the round of 32, URA have steadily grown into the tournament.
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URA FC will be without goalkeeper Abdu Magada for the encounter, but head coach Mbalangu has the rest of his squad available, offering him a strong selection headache ahead of the crunch tie.
The squad has shown resilience and tactical discipline throughout the campaign, something the technical team will be keen to maintain.
Midfielder Joshua Lubwama is among the key figures expected to play a pivotal role, especially in controlling the tempo and providing stability in the middle of the park is given a starting berth.
Mbalangu: “We Must Be Smart and Clinical”
Speaking ahead of the fixture, head coach Hussein Mbalangu emphasized the importance of game management and focus in knockout football.
“This is a cup game and the margins are always very small. We have prepared well and the players understand what is at stake. We must be disciplined, stay compact, and take our chances when they come. The team has shown growth, and this is the moment to step up and prove ourselves.”
He added:
“Playing at Nakivubo gives us extra motivation. We know the environment, and we want to use that to our advantage. The target is clear, progress to the semifinals.”
Lubwama: “We’re Ready for the Fight”
Midfielder Joshua Lubwama echoed the coach’s sentiments, highlighting the team’s readiness and unity heading into the encounter.
“The mood in the camp is positive, and everyone is focused. These are the kind of games every player wants to be part of. We respect the opponent, but we believe in our ability and our system.”
He continued:
“As players, we know we must give everything on the pitch. It’s a knockout game, so concentration and teamwork will be key. We are ready to fight for the badge and make our fans proud.”
URA FC will draw confidence from their recent meeting at Nakivubo, where they secured a narrow 1-0 victory courtesy of a late strike from Innocent Kisolo.
That result underlines their ability to grind out wins in tight contests, an attribute that could prove decisive once again.
With a semifinal slot on the line and the added incentive of continental qualification for the eventual winner, Saturday’s clash promises to be a fiercely contested encounter as the Tax Collectors aim to keep their Uganda Cup dream alive.
