Lugazi FC vs SC Villa: High-Stakes Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 Clash at Lugazi FC Stadium

Match Details:

Fixture: Lugazi FC vs SC Villa

Competition: Stanbic Uganda Cup – Round of 16

Venue: Lugazi FC Stadium, Najjembe

Kick-off: 3 PM (EAT), Tuesday, March 18, 2025

A thrilling knockout encounter awaits as Lugazi FC welcomes nine-time Stanbic Uganda Cup winners, SC Villa, in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash at the Lugazi FC Stadium. With both teams yet to concede a goal in the tournament and having scored four goals each, this match is set to be a fierce battle for a place in the quarter-finals.

Lugazi FC’s Historic Cup Run and Recent Form

Lugazi FC, known as "The Leaders", have been enjoying a remarkable campaign, reaching this stage of the Uganda Cup for the first time in their history. Under the stewardship of Coach Gerald Efiti, the team has shown resilience and attacking prowess, scoring goals freely in recent matches.

Their journey to the Round of 16 has been impressive. They defeated fourth-division side Mayuge United 2-0 in the Round of 64 before eliminating Uganda Premier League hopefuls Calvary FC with another 2-0 victory in February.

Lugazi FC heads into this fixture in fine form, having secured five wins in their last six matches. Their recent 3-1 triumph over Mbale Heroes demonstrated their growing confidence, especially in front of goal. Despite a 2-0 loss to NEC FC earlier this month, the team remains optimistic about their chances against a formidable opponent like SC Villa.

SC Villa’s Quest for a 10th Uganda Cup Title

SC Villa, the record league champions and a dominant force in Ugandan football, are eager to add a 10th Uganda Cup title to their illustrious trophy cabinet. Their last triumph in this competition came in 2015, when they convincingly defeated KCCA FC 3-0 in a replayed final at Mandela National Stadium, thanks to goals from Augustine Nsumba, Abdul Karim Kasule, and Yesseri Waibi.

Their path to the Round of 16 has been steady, with a 3-0 victory over Buganda Regional League side Seeta United in the Round of 64, followed by a narrow 1-0 win over Simba FC in the Round of 32.

Despite a dip in form with two consecutive league defeats, The Jogoos bounced back in style last Friday, securing a 3-1 win over Bright Stars at Kavumba Recreation Grounds. This resurgence could give them a psychological boost heading into this knockout battle.

This will be the second meeting between Lugazi FC and SC Villa this season. Their first encounter in the Uganda Premier League back in December 2024 ended in a 1-1 draw, with Lugazi FC creating multiple scoring opportunities but failing to convert them.

With Lugazi FC now in fine goal-scoring form, Coach Efiti is confident that his side can capitalize on their chances this time around.

Lugazi FC Team News and Coach’s Remarks

Lugazi FC received a boost ahead of the clash with the return of winger Alvin Birungi Twine from an ankle injury and defender Akiram Massa from a minor setback. However, vice-captain Nelson Mandela is expected to miss the match due to personal reasons.

Speaking ahead of the game, Lugazi FC Coach Gerald Efiti expressed optimism about his team’s chances of progressing to the quarter-finals.

“The morale is high after winning our last game. The boys are now scoring more goals than they did in the first round. They have the confidence. Even though we are playing a side that has won this competition so many times, our camp is okay, everyone is there, and all players are ready to hit the ground tomorrow.”

“We drew against SC Villa when we met in the first round of the league but we got many chances that we didn’t convert. Now that we are scoring at will, I think our chances of going through are so high.”

SC Villa’s Experience vs. Lugazi FC’s Determination

SC Villa’s rich history in the Uganda Cup makes them favorites on paper

, but Lugazi FC’s home advantage and impressive recent form set up a compelling contest. Lugazi FC’s roving fullback, Emmanuel Obua, dismissed any fear factor, insisting that the team is ready to take on SC Villa as equals.

“They have won this trophy nine times, but we are not going to fear them. We are going to handle this match like any other usual game. As players, we are ready and set for tomorrow, hoping for a better game and result.”

“We have a wealth of experience in the squad, and those of us who have ever won this cup will help our colleagues on how to handle this game. We are hoping to go through.”

Lugazi FC’s Attack vs. SC Villa’s Defense: With Lugazi FC finding their goal-scoring rhythm, they will test SC Villa’s defensive resilience. The visitors will need to be solid at the back to withstand the pressure. SC Villa’s Midfield Control: The Jogoos’ experience in the midfield, led by seasoned campaigners, could be key in dictating the pace of the game. Lugazi FC must remain disciplined and organized.

Home Advantage for Lugazi FC: Playing at the Lugazi FC Stadium, the home side will have their fans rallying behind them, creating an electrifying atmosphere that could tilt the game in their favor.

Uganda Cup Journey 2024/25 –

Road to Round of 16 Lugazi FC’s Results: Round of 64: Mayuge United 0-2 Lugazi FC (January 16, 2025)

Round of 32: Calvary FC 0-2 Lugazi FC (February 24, 2025)

SC Villa’s Results:

Round of 64: Seeta United 0-3 SC Villa (January 23, 2025)

Round of 32: Simba FC 0-1 SC Villa (February 19, 2025)

Verdict: A Tight Encounter with a Place in the Quarter-Finals at Stake

With both teams in strong form and showing defensive solidity in the tournament so far, this match is expected to be a tightly contested affair. While SC Villa boasts the experience of winning the Uganda Cup multiple times, Lugazi FC’s confidence and attacking form could pose a real challenge.

Will The Leaders make history by reaching their first-ever Uganda Cup quarter-final, or will The Jogoos take a step closer to a long-awaited 10th title? The answer lies on the pitch this Tuesday at Lugazi FC Stadium.

Football fans across Uganda will be eagerly watching as these two sides battle for cup glory in what promises to be an enthralling contest.