SC Villa aim to reignite title hopes in Kadiba night clash

Uganda Premier League (UPL)
Friday 
Kitara v Mbarara, 4pm
SC Villa v Police, 8pm
Saturday, 4pm
Entebbe UPPC v NEC

After a promising start to life under new Serbian coach Zeljko Kovacevic, SC Villa appeared poised to reclaim their glory days when they clinched the FUFA Super 8 title last month.

Their dominant run to the crown capped by a 2-0 victory over NEC in the final revived belief among the Villa fans that the 2025/2026 Uganda Premier League (UPL) campaign would mark the club’s return to title contention.

However, just two matches into the new season, that optimism has dimmed. The Jogoos have managed only one point from a possible six, following a 2-1 defeat to rivals KCCA FC on opening day at Namboole stadium, and a disappointing 1-1 home draw against Entebbe UPPC at Kadiba stadium last week on Wednesday.

Today, Villa return to Kadiba determined to rediscover their early-season spark as they host a stubborn Police FC side in a night clash. The match is expected to mark the return of Villa fans to the stadium after they boycotted the first two games in protest of the controversial three-round league format, which FUFA has since suspended in favour of the old two-round format.

During the Super 8 tournament, Villa impressed with their intensity, high pressing, and defensive discipline, attributes that seemed to signal the dawn of a new era under the Serbian tactician. 

But recent performances have raised concerns. In the draw against Entebbe UPPC, Andrew Otim’s late 83rd-minute equaliser saved Villa from a home defeat after Fazil Tumwine’s first-half goal. Against KCCA, they succumbed to a stoppage-time winner from former player Umar Lutalo.

With their passionate fans now back to rally behind them, Villa will rely on Charles Lwanga, Ibrahim Kasinde, and Najib Yiga to inspire a revival.

For Police, they are in a confident mood after earning a dramatic 2-2 draw with NEC courtesy of a 93rd-minute penalty converted by Umar Kasumba at Lugogo. Former Villa forward Charles Bbaale who scored in that game, will be eager to haunt his former side as the Cops chase their first win of the season.

Coached by the experienced Matia Lule, Police have drawn twice and lost once so far, a 1-1 draw with Mbarara City, 2-1 defeat to Express, and 2-2 draw with NEC.

Last season, Villa had the upper hand over Police, winning 3-1 away at Kavumba and drawing 1-1 at Wankulukuku.