On Friday, fans across the nation will be treated to a thrilling display of football as the new league officially gets underway.
The countdown is over, and the anticipated 2023/24 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season is set to kick off with a bang
The standout fixture of the opening day will undoubtedly pit record league champions SC Villa will play host to newly-promoted Kitara FC at the Muteesa II stadium Wankulukuku.
The clash between these two teams is eagerly awaited, and for good reason.
Last season, SC Villa came tantalizingly close to clinching the league title, only to be denied at the eleventh hour by URA FC with Vipers FC snatching the title.
Under the leadership of Jackson Magera, the Jogoos showcased their dominance by winning all but four of their home games, yet, fate had other plans.
Now under the tutelage of Serbian manager, Dusan Stojanovic, the Jogoo return with a burning desire to prove that their near miss was merely a stepping stone towards future glory.
As they prepare to kick off the new season, SC Villa has undergone a transformation. The departures of Charles Bbale and Gift Fred have paved the way for fresh talent to take the stage.
The likes of Charles Lwanga, Hakim Kiwanuka, Peter Onzima, and Gavin Kizito have arrived at Villa Park, bringing with them the promise of revitalizing the team’s title credentials.
Kitara FC, led by Brian Ssenyondo, have not been idle either. Having earned their promotion to the top flight, they have bolstered their squad with experienced players.
The likes of Jude Ssemugabi, Brian Aheebwa, Denis Omedi, and Frank Tumwesigye Zaga join the seasoned campaigners Paul Mucureezi and George Ssenkaaba.
In terms of head-to-head encounters, SC Villa has the upper hand, having secured victory in their only top-flight meeting against Kitara with a scoreline of 3-2.
Faizo Kazibwe scored a late winner in that thrilling encounter, with Nicholas Kabonge and Joseph Nsubuga adding to the Blues’ tally.
Adding to the excitement of this season’s opener, dancehall musician Ziza Bafana will headline the entertainment at Wankulukuku as SC Villa welcomes Kitara FC.
Friday will also have other fixtures unfold. New entrants Mbarara City will host debutants NEC FC at Kakyeka Stadium in Mbarara City.
While Soltilo Bright Stars will host Super 8 champions Bul FC at Kavumba Recreational Ground in Wakiso.
