By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times
The stage is set for an electrifying Uganda Cup final this Saturday at the newly opened Kadiba Stadium, as Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC face off with record champions KCCA FC in a highly anticipated clash.
Speaking during a press conference held at FUFA House in Mengo at 10 AM on Tuesday, Vipers head coach Fred Muhumuza expressed pride in his team’s journey so far and emphasized their commitment to finishing the season on a high.
“I thank the players and management of Vipers for the tremendous effort that has taken us to the Uganda Cup final. Coming straight from winning the Uganda Premier League on Saturday, it has been a long journey. We’ve already trained three times since then, and we are taking the final very seriously. KCCA is a big team, but we have experienced players who will put on a great display. It will be a nice game at the new Kadiba Stadium,” said Muhumuza.
KCCA FC’s interim coach, Jackson Magera Kaddu, also addressed the media, assuring fans of their readiness ahead of the decisive match.
“Thanks to all media personnel for coming. We are well-prepared for the final. We know how strong Vipers are, but most of our previously injured players are back, and we are analyzing who will make the best starting eleven. Our goal is to lift the trophy this Saturday,” said Magera.
The players, too, are fully aware of the magnitude of the occasion.
Vipers captain Milton Karisa acknowledged the tough challenge ahead but expressed confidence in his team’s mentality.
“We know Saturday’s final is going to be tough, but the Vipers family—our fans, management, and everyone behind us—motivates us to give more. We’ll do all it takes on the pitch to bring joy to our supporters,” Karisa said.
His counterpart at KCCA, Julius Poloto, who scored the winning goal in the 2018 Uganda Cup final against Vipers, is hopeful history will repeat itself.
“It’s been a while since KCCA played in a final. We believe this is our year to return to glory and lift the trophy once again,” Poloto remarked.
Saturday’s final holds added significance as the winner will represent Uganda in the CAF Confederation Cup.
However, since Vipers have already secured their place in the CAF Champions League by winning the league title, a Vipers win would see league runners-up NEC FC take Uganda’s spot in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Kickoff is expected at 6 PM, and fans across the country are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
