In a unique twist to Tuesday’s StarTimes Uganda Premier League fixture, family ties will take a backseat as brothers Steven Bogere and Alex Isabirye face off on opposing benches when Lugazi host URA at the Najjembe playground.
Lugazi, coached by Bogere, are aiming to end a three-match winless run that includes two defeats and a 1-1 draw.
Their latest setback came in the form of a 4-0 thrashing by BUL, a result that tested the resilience of the newly promoted side. Despite the recent struggles, assistant coach Gerald Efiti remains upbeat.
“We’ve prepared well. The mood in the camp is positive, and we are eager to bounce back after that heavy loss to BUL,” Efiti said.
Lugazi currently sit 11th on the log with 31 points and are relatively secure from the relegation scrap. With four games left in their debut season in the top flight, a strong finish remains within reach.
However, the hosts will have to navigate the fixture without key midfielder Abdul Kalanzi, who is ruled out through injury. Defender Wasswa Paul will undergo a late fitness test. On a brighter note, Shafic Lugoloobi returns to full fitness after a lengthy three-month injury absence, although Hudu Mulikyi and Dennis Kisiriko remain unavailable.
Meanwhile, fourth-placed URA are also desperate for a response after going two games without victory.
The Tax Collectors lost to Police before settling for a 1-1 draw with SC Villa in their most recent outing. With 43 points, URA remain in contention for a top-three finish and will look to capitalize on Lugazi’s shaky form.
Head coach Alex Isabirye emphasized the need for urgency ahead of the fixture.
“We haven’t won in the last two games, and we need a reaction. It won’t be an easy game, but we are determined to fight for all three points,” Isabirye told the club’s media team.
URA welcome back defender Bright Vuni from suspension, boosting their defensive options after he missed the previous match due to card accumulation.
This fixture marks the second meeting between the two sides this season. URA claimed victory in the reverse fixture and will be confident of doing the double, though the added narrative of the “Battle of Brothers” adds extra intrigue to what promises to be a compelling encounter at Najjembe.
