Express will be aiming to return to winning ways when they host Mbarara City, who aim to continue their winning momentum, in a pivotal Uganda Premier League (UPL) clash under the floodlights at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
The Red Eagles, currently sitting in 8th place with 13 points, have their sights set on climbing to fourth on the table.
A win would propel them to within four points of league leaders Vipers, who are not in action until Friday.
Coach Badru Kaddu’s side have struggled with consistency, registering just one win in their last five matches.
However, their spirited 1-1 draw against BUL in their previous outing, where Sam Ssenyonjo’s late equaliser rescued a point, showcased their resilience.
Additionally, a narrow 1-0 victory over rivals SC Villa in their last home game has boosted their confidence.
Mbarara City, led by former Express coach Livingstone Mbabazi, enter the match in 10th place with 12 points.
The Ankole Lions snapped a two-game losing streak with a hard-fought 1-0 win over newcomers Mbale Heroes in their last outing, and will be keen to build on that momentum and leapfrog Express with another positive result.
The visitors will look to captain Joseph Akandwanaho, who faces his former club, to inspire their attack, alongside Seiri Arigumaho.
Mbarara City’s previous visit to Nakivubo ended in a controversial 0-0 draw with URA, where two goals were disallowed for offside.
Express will be without captain Saidi Kyeyune, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation.
However, defender Issa Lumu is fully fit and expected to return to the starting lineup.
For Mbarara City, Innocent Wafula and Ivan Nambafu are back in the squad after recovering from injuries, while Ibrahim Musa (knee) and Ronald Edwok miss out.
In recent seasons, matches between Express and Mbarara City have been closely contested.
Last season, Mbarara City claimed a 3-1 home win before a goalless draw at Wankulukuku.
Express’ last victory over the Ankole Lions came in the 2021/22 season with a 2-0 home win.
