Monday 4th May 2026
Stanbic Uganda Cup Semifinal first leg
URA FC vs SC Villa- Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo at 7pm
Entrance: 10k, Ordinary and 30k, VIP
URA FC return under the lights at Hamz Nakivubo Stadium on Monday evening for a high-stakes Stanbic Uganda Cup semifinal first leg against SC Villa, with head coach Hussein Mbalangu rallying his side to seize the moment on home soil.
The Tax Collectors head into the clash determined to make their home advantage count as they chase a place in the final of Uganda’s premier knockout competition.
Mbalangu has challenged his players to deliver a strong performance in front of their supporters and set the tone in the first leg.
“This is a big opportunity for us as a team,” Mbalangu told the club website. “We are playing at home and we must use that to our advantage. The players understand what is at stake, and I expect them to rise to the occasion.”
URA FC will be looking to end a winless run against SC Villa that stretches back to the 2022/23 season, although the fixture has often favored the hosts at home.
The Tax Collectors are unbeaten in their last eleven home meetings against the Jogoos, winning six and drawing five, an encouraging statistic heading into Monday’s encounter.
Despite Villa’s strong recent record in this fixture, Mbalangu struck a composed and confident tone, emphasizing belief within his squad.
“We respect SC Villa because they are a strong side with quality players, but we don’t fear them. We have prepared well, and now it’s about going out there and executing our plan.”
The URA tactician expressed satisfaction with preparations in the lead-up to the game, pointing to the unity and focus within the squad.
“Training has been very positive. The boys have shown great commitment, and everyone is pushing in the same direction. That’s exactly what we want at this stage of the competition.”
However, Mbalangu has cautioned his defensive unit to remain alert against Villa’s dangerous attacking options, with Patrick Kakande, Hassan Mubiru, and Frank Ssebufu all capable of influencing the game.
“They have a very dangerous attack, so we must stay switched on defensively. Concentration and discipline will be key for us throughout the game.”
The head coach also called upon the URA faithful to turn up in large numbers and play their part in pushing the team toward a positive result.
“We urge all our fans to come and support the team. Their presence means a lot to the players, and together we can make it a special night. We are ready, and we will give everything to make them proud.”
Team News
URA FC are boosted by the return of Hudu Mulikyi to the squad ahead of the clash. However, midfielder John Innocent Kisolo and defender Bright Vuni will miss out due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards.
The team will also be without Arthur Kiggundu, Olimi Nyarwa, and Abdul Magada, who remain sidelined through injury.
Match Context
URA FC booked their place in the semifinals in dramatic fashion, coming from two goals down to draw 2-2 with KCCA FC before progressing via penalties. SC Villa secured their spot with a narrow 1-0 victory over Happy Boyz Kagaba.
The Tax Collectors are aiming to lift the Uganda Cup for the fourth time in their history, with their last triumph coming in 2014, while SC Villa boast nine titles, last winning the competition in 2015.
Kick-off is set for 7pm at Hamz Nakivubo Stadium.