Super 8 defending champions, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and newly promoted side Wakiso Giants will vie for the one available semifinal spot when they face off at the Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium in Wakiso.
This will be Wakiso Giants first game at their newly refurbished home ground, after they played last season at the Bugembe Stadium under directives by FUFA following their takeover of Kamuli Park FC.
The Purple Sharks head into the match with a huge reputation after their marvelous season in the Big league which saw them lead the Elgon Group before they eventually lost to Proline FC in the play-off finals.
Off the pitch, they have also made tremendous strides and have become a model club of sorts to many of the lesser sides with many now believing they can even mount a title challenge.
However, their resolve will be tested when they come up against the kasasiro boys who seem to have set themselves apart with the continued success they have enjoyed since manager Mike Mutebi took over at the club.
Both clubs come from different backgrounds with KCCA relying on a blend of youth development and experience while the Giants have thrown a couple of shillings around to assemble a rather formidable squad.
And Wakiso Giants coach Kefa Kisala knows how much a challenge their opponents do hold, stating that a game against KCCA will be a good test for them as they continue to prepare for their maiden season in the top flight.
“KCCA is an organised side and there is no better chance than playing them at the moment. They are CECAFA winners and there is no better way in football than playing an organised team,” Kisala said.
“We are really set for the game, there is progress at the club and immediately we qualified for the top division, we knew we were going to compete in the competition,” he added.
But KCCA manager Mike Mutebi echoed similar sentiments, saying that his players are pumped up for the game and will use the game as a precursor for their upcoming CAF Champions league preliminary round qualifier over the weekend.
“My lads are very confident of themselves that they can beat any team. Of course, it’s not going to be a walk in the park and so we are not taking the game for granted,” Mutebi said.
“We shall select the best team possible for the game and we shall use this as a precursor for the away game in the CAF Champions League,” said Mutebi.
The Purple Sharks will be without versatile midfielder Ayub Kisaliita while defender Aggrey Maddoi is a doubt for the tie. Midfielder Muwadda Mawejje is in line for his debut against his former side while it remains to be seen if new signing Geoffrey Sserunkuuma makes the match day squad.
On the other hand, Mutebi confirmed that Julius Poloto and Erisa Ssekisambu are out of contention for the game while Simon Sserunkuuma completed his transfer late to warrant a position on the team.
The winner between the two sides will face Onduparaka who edged Tooro United 4-3 on penalties on Sunday.
Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at editorial@watchdoguganda.com
