Kampala Derby Showdown: KCCA FC vs. Express FC

Striker Muhammad Shaban is in good form but KCCA FC continue to fire blanks under Sergio Traguil /KCCA FC

FOOTBALL Kampala Derby Showdown: KCCA FC vs. Express FC

Shafic Kiyaga 20:24 - 07.10.2023

The latest chapter in the age-old rivalry will unfold at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

As two Uganda football titans prepare to face off, the stakes couldn't be higher ahead of the latest installment of the Kampala derby between KCCA and Express.

The latest chapter in the age-old rivalry will unfold at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

KCCA FC enters this crucial encounter after two consecutive league defeats, leaving them point-less in this season so far, that came either side of their elimination from the CAF Confederations Cup

The pressure on the team is palpable, as a win could revive their season, while another defeat might put the managerial position of Sergio Traguil under scrutiny.

Traguil was reduced to tears after Tuesday’s defeat to Maroons FC, but remains adamant that his side can turn the table.

“We just have to turn the tables and bring our quality up, go to the game, bring the responsibility to ourselves and behave like the club we are – KCCA,” he told the club’s media.

“It’s time to do something for the fans and the things that happened against Maroons, it can’t happen again,” he added.

Express FC, on the other hand, have had a relatively more promising start despite their pre-season worries, having secured four out of a possible six points.

Express FC's manager, James Odoch, acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead.

He said, “We are well aware that this will be a challenging match because KCCA FC will be playing at home, and they have suffered two consecutive league losses, so they’ll be eager to bounce back.”

The derby, however, will witness some notable absences. KCCA will be without their skipper, Julius Poloto, the recent signing, Emmanuel Loki, and their goalkeeper, Emojong.

While Express FC boasts a full-strength squad, they will miss the services of Emmanuel Wasswa, currently loaned out from KCCA.

Historically, over the last 10 league meetings between the two sides, KCCA has had the upper hand with four victories, while Express FC has managed a solitary win, with five matches ending in a draw.

The Red Eagles last celebrated victory over their crosstown rivals in 2018, when they triumphed over KCCA 3-2 at the Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku.

Furthermore, the last time Express FC defeated the Kasasiro Boys at Lugogo was in 2015, clinching a 3-0 victory.

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