Startimes Uganda Premier League: Lugazi FC Seeks Revenge Against Maroons FC in Crucial Matchday 21 Clash
Both teams had their Uganda Cup campaigns cut short before the international break, with Lugazi falling to SC Villa and Maroons suffering elimination at the hands of Police FC.
Match: Lugazi FC vs. Maroons FC
Venue: Lugazi Stadium
Kickoff: 4:00 PM EAT Date: Friday, 28th March 2028
Match Preview
Lugazi FC and Maroons FC will renew hostilities in the second round of the 2024/25 Startimes Uganda Premier League season, with both sides eager to bounce back from recent disappointments. Lugazi, currently 10th with 26 points, will look to overturn their 1-0 first-leg defeat, while Maroons, in 8th with 27 points, will aim to complete a season double over their hosts.
Both teams had their Uganda Cup campaigns cut short before the international break, with Lugazi falling to SC Villa and Maroons suffering elimination at the hands of Police FC. As the league resumes, the focus shifts to securing a strong finish in the standings.
Lugazi FC will step onto their home turf with a clear objective—revenge and climbing the table. Their narrow defeat in Luzira was a bitter pill to swallow, and they are determined to turn the tide this time around.
Assistant coach Gerald Efiti has emphasized the team's desire to finish in the top eight, which would secure their participation in next season’s FUFA Super Eight tournament.
"We were eliminated from the Uganda Cup, which was disappointing. But now our focus is here. We want to finish in the top eight so that we can play the FUFA Super Eight next season," he said.
A win on Friday would not only propel Lugazi above Maroons but also boost their survival hopes and eliminate any fears of being dragged into the late-season relegation battle.
For Maroons, the goal is simple: secure back-to-back wins over Lugazi and recover from a recent slump. They come into this match after suffering two consecutive losses, including a Uganda Cup exit against Police FC.
With just one point separating them from Lugazi, a loss could see them drop further down the table, increasing pressure on their campaign. Their first-leg win came courtesy of a late penalty from Brian Omilambe, but with several key players missing, this will be a more challenging fixture.
Team News
Lugazi FC:
Vice-captain Nelson Mandela is unavailable due to personal reasons.
The rest of the squad is fit and available for selection.
Maroons FC:
Captain Ronald Orombi, Biyika Innocent, and Darious Ojok Orombi are all out with injuries.
Right-back Denis Rukundo is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.
Probable Lineups
Lugazi FC: (4-3-3 Formation)
Goalkeeper: Juma Mutebi
Defenders: Ayiko Richard, Wasswa Paul, Othieno Joseph, Bayo Ali
Midfielders: Derrick Mwanje, Hussein Ssenoga, Sharif Saaka
Forwards: Sam Ssemugugu, Obua Emmanuel, Mungudit Freedom
Maroons FC: (4-3-3 Formation)
Goalkeeper: Hassan Matovu
Defenders: Derrick Basoga, Godwin Kitagenda, Fredrick Kigozi, Felix Okot
Midfielders: Abel Eturude, Ivan Asaba, Ivan Mayanja
Forwards: Norman Odipio, Rogers Kiwanuka, Baden Mujahid Ogama
Head-to-Head Record
October 6, 2024: Maroons 1-0 Lugazi
This encounter is expected to be tightly contested, with Lugazi FC banking on their home advantage and Maroons aiming for a quick response to their recent setbacks.
Lugazi’s midfield dynamo Sharif Saaka will be a key player to watch, as his creativity and ability to control the tempo could make the difference. Meanwhile, Maroons’ Baden Mujahid Ogama will be tasked with leading the attack in the absence of some key players.
The home side has been stubborn at Lugazi Stadium this season, and they will be confident in putting on a solid performance. Maroons, on the other hand, will have to overcome their injury concerns and suspension challenges if they are to claim maximum points.
With both teams looking to improve their league standings, this fixture has all the ingredients for an exciting battle. A Lugazi win would propel them above Maroons, while a victory for the visitors would solidify their position in the top half of the table.
Will Lugazi get their revenge, or will Maroons complete the double? The action unfolds this Friday at Lugazi Stadium.
