Revived KCCA out to sink dim Stars
KCCA's Saidi Mayanja (in yellow) tries to sidestep Bright Stars Noordin Bunjo. PHOTO/JOHN BATANUDDE
What you need to know:
Much to Mubiru’s delight and relief, KCCA has received a timely boost with the return of previously injured stars Peter Magambo, Hassan Muhamood, and Usama Arafat.
Clashes between KCCA and Soltilo Bright Stars were once thrilling affairs, brimming with fluid football, tension, and the occasional upset. However, as the two sides meet today, the script has drastically changed.
KCCA, playing catch-up to the leading pack, sits in fourth place with 31 points from 20 matches, while Bright Stars are languishing in the relegation zone, second from bottom with a meager 12 points.
After 13 years in the top flight, they now stare at an imminent drop. For Abdallah Mubiru’s Kasasiro Boys, Friday's fixture is a mere prelude to sterner tests ahead—against Kitara (April 5), Bul (April 12), and URA (April 16).
On paper, the struggling Bright Stars should pose little resistance to a rejuvenated KCCA side that has netted 11 goals in their last three matches against Mbale Heroes, UPDF, and Rwenzori Lions.
Meanwhile, Ian Mutenda’s Bright Stars, burdened by the third-lowest scoring record in the league (12 goals) - only ahead of Mbale Heroes (eight) and Wakiso Giants (11) - must summon something extraordinary to avoid another crushing defeat.
Anaku's goal taps open
Much to Mubiru’s delight and relief, KCCA has received a timely boost with the return of previously injured stars Peter Magambo, Hassan Muhamood, and Usama Arafat.
Their comeback has strengthened the squad’s depth and firepower as the league enters its decisive stretch.
Yet, the biggest talking point is striker Sadat Anaku’s resurgence in front of goal. With five league goals and a couple more in the Uganda Cup, his form has KCCA faithful licking their lips, finally easing the burden on the rusty Derrick Nsibambi.
Elsewhere, Steven Bogere’s Lugazi, sitting 10th with 26 points, hosts Muhammad Ssenfuma’s Maroons, who are just ahead in eighth with 27 points, at Lugazi Stadium-Najjembe.
Meanwhile, at the Wakisha Stadium in Wakiso, relegation-threatened Wakiso Giants, third from bottom with 14 points, take on Paul Kiwanuka’s UPDF, who are seeking to build on their 24-point tally.
StarTimes Uganda Premier League
Friday fixtures
Lugazi vs. Maroons, 4pm
Wakiso Giants vs. UPDF,4pm
KCCA vs. Soltilo Bright Stars,7pm
