As the Uganda Premier League enters its decisive phase, Wakiso Giants host Maroons FC on Wednesday afternoon at Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium in a fixture that could heavily influence the relegation and top-four battles.
Wakiso Giants, currently third from bottom on 17 points, are desperate to continue their revival after a narrow 1-0 win over Mbale Heroes last week ended a six-month winless league run.
Head coach Steven Bengo believes the team has turned a corner and is focused on securing another crucial three points.
“We’ve always wanted to secure a victory and build on it,” Bengo told the club media.
“The previous game showed that we can avoid conceding and also score. At the moment, we’re focused on achieving positive results, regardless of the scoreline. We’ll work as a team, knowing that we must win, but also be cautious because we’re facing a strong side. The first-leg result doesn’t count now; we’re focused on Wednesday’s encounter.”
That first-leg result was a 3-2 away win for Wakiso, their only victory over Maroons in their last five league meetings. A win on Wednesday would complete their first-ever league double over the Luzira-based side.
However, Maroons come into the tie in confident form, having won their last two league games, including a dramatic 1-0 victory over Express FC sealed by Boris Onegi in stoppage time.
Head coach Muhamed Senfuma expects a tough match against relegation-threatened opposition.
“We’ve won our last two league games, and this motivates us ahead of the Wakiso game,” Senfuma said.
“However, facing a team fighting relegation is always tricky. As the technical team, we’ve prepared the boys to fight and secure maximum points, which will take us closer to the top of the table.”
Maroons sit mid-table on 33 points and could push closer to the top four with another win.
Elsewhere, at Nakivubo Stadium, Soltilo Bright Stars, also battling relegation, take on URA FC. Like Wakiso, Bright Stars are in desperate need of points as they look to escape the drop zone.
