URA FC vs Maroons FC: A Crucial Encounter at Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo

As the second round of the 2024/2025 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season intensifies, two mid-table teams—URA FC and Maroons FC—are set to clash in what promises to be a crucial match for both sides. The encounter, scheduled to take place at the historic Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, will see the Tax Collectors, URA FC, play host to Maroons FC, a team known for their resilience and tactical discipline. 

The two teams approach this fixture with somewhat contrasting fortunes. URA FC enters this match on the back of a disappointing 2-0 loss to Vipers SC in Kitende, a result that has left them frustrated despite showing solid form in the first leg of the season. Sitting 5th on the league table with 24 points, URA FC has shown a balanced mix of performances—3 wins and 2 draws in their last 5 matches—highlighting their potential for bounce-back success.

On the other hand, Maroons FC, who are currently 7th in the standings, find themselves just 2 points behind URA FC. Their recent 1-1 draw against Soltilo Bright Stars in Luzira was a missed opportunity to move higher up the table. With 22 points, they are eager to get back on track and make an upward climb in the second half of the season. Maroons FC’s recent form includes 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses in their last 5 matches, demonstrating both promise and inconsistency in their performances.

Over the past 10 meetings between these two sides, Maroons FC holds a slight edge with 3 wins, 5 draws, and 2 losses. The encounter promises to be an intriguing battle, with both teams aware of the importance of securing all three points. URA FC has scored 13 goals in their previous 10 encounters, while Maroons FC has found the back of the net 12 times. Their last meeting in Luzira saw Maroons FC edge out URA FC 2-1, thanks to a stunning early goal by Baden Mujahid Ogama and a decisive penalty by Brian Jr. Omirambe.

A win for Maroons FC would propel them into 4th place with 26 points, providing them with the momentum they need as they push for a top-four finish. Meanwhile, URA FC will be looking to bounce back and maintain their position in the top half of the table.

Both teams boast key players capable of influencing the outcome of this match. For Maroons FC, the attacking prowess of Baden Mujahid Ogama, the team’s leading scorer with 5 goals, will be crucial. Ogama has been in excellent form this season and will look to capitalize on any defensive lapses by URA FC. Joining him in the attack will be playmaker Ivan Asaba, whose creativity and vision have been pivotal in the team’s recent performances. Asaba’s ability to create chances for Ogama and his teammates will be a key factor in Maroons’ pursuit of victory.

For URA FC, much of the attacking responsibility will fall on Ivan Ahimbisibwe, the club’s top scorer with 9 goals. Ahimbisibwe’s clinical finishing ability and work rate will be essential in breaking down Maroons’ defense. He will need support from Salim Muwonge and Brian Nkuubi, who have been vital in linking up play and adding depth to the attack. URA’s ability to stay compact defensively while transitioning quickly into attack will determine their success in this encounter.

Both teams come into this match with a solid tactical approach, and the clash of styles will undoubtedly be intriguing. URA FC, known for their high pressing game and possession-based football, will look to dictate the tempo and assert control in midfield. The team’s ability to maintain possession and create goal-scoring opportunities through quick passing and dynamic runs will be crucial against a well-organized Maroons FC side.

Maroons FC, in contrast, is likely to adopt a more counter-attacking approach, utilizing their pace and direct play to exploit spaces left open by URA FC’s offensive push.

Maroons FC’s midfield trio of Asaba, Samuel Ssemwogerere, and Sulaiman Luwagga will play an essential role in breaking down URA’s attacking moves and distributing the ball effectively to their forwards. The defensive pairing of Brian J. Omirambe and Moses Oundo will be tested by the attacking threat of Ahimbisibwe and company.

This fixture is expected to be a closely contested encounter, with both teams having a point to prove in the second round of the season. URA FC will likely take the game to Maroons, utilizing their attacking flair, while Maroons FC will look to play a more counter-attacking style, aiming to hit URA on the break.

Given the form of both teams and their shared desire to secure a win, the match could end in a 1-1 draw or possibly a narrow victory for URA FC. However, Maroons FC’s resilience and the form of key players like Ogama could see them edge out the Tax Collectors in what promises to be an exciting and important match for both sides.

Saturday’s clash between URA FC and Maroons FC is more than just a mid-table battle—it’s an opportunity for both teams to show their character and ambition as the season heads into its critical phase. For Maroons FC, the chance to avenge their loss in the last encounter and move into the top four is a major incentive. For URA FC, maintaining their push for a top spot requires them to recover from their recent loss and continue their strong home form. All eyes will be on Hamz Stadium for what promises to be an exciting spectacle.