FUFA Super 8 Tournament
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
BUL FC VS MAROONS
MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo
Time: 5:00 PM
Forward Martin Aprem in action
BUL FC hosts Maroons on Wednesday at MTN Omondi Stadium in the highly anticipated second leg of the FUFA Super 8 tournament. The two teams played out a thrilling 1-1 draw in the first leg at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende two days ago setting the stage for a captivating encounter.
TEAM NEWS
BUL fc will be without two players in tomorrow’s match:
* Anthony Mayanja – injured
* Douglas Muganga – Injured
Despite they absence, coach Abbey’s squad remains confident and determined to secure a win
HEAD COACH ABBEY BOGERE’S REMARKS
“We are looking forward to tomorrow’s game with great enthusiasm. Our team is well-prepared, and we are confident in our abilities. We will go all out for a win and ensure we progress to the next stage.”
ISAAC WAGOINA’S PRE-MATCH REMARKS
“We are set for tomorrow’s game; we’ve corrected our mistakes and ready to play to advance to the next stage. We urge all our fans to come out in large numbers and rally behind us.”
– Live broadcast on FUFA TV
– Timely live updates on our social media handles
– Post-match report and highlights
BUL FC secured a valuable point against Maroons, as the two teams played out a thrilling 1-1 draw at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. Jeromy Kirya scored for BUL FC in the 45+1 minute, capitalizing on a Maroons defensive error set up by Isaac Wagoina. However, Maroons equalized in the 50th minute through Brian Omirembe.
Jeromy Kirya celebrating after scoring against Maroons
Maroons had early chances, but BUL FC’s goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa made crucial saves in the 12th and 27th minutes to deny them the lead. Ibrahim Orit came close for BUL FC in the 43rd minute, but his effort went narrowly wide.
Striker Isaac Wagoina in action
In the second half, Maroons’ Muwanda received a red card in the 66th minute for a second bookable offense. BUL FC’s coach Abbey introduced young stars Innocent Rwothomio and Swabir Mpasa in the 82nd minute to boost the attacking line.
The return leg is scheduled for Wednesday at MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
BUL FC starting line up against Maroons
BUL FC Starting Lineup:
Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Hillary Onek, Nicholas Mwere, Walter Ochora (C), Benon Tahomera (Swabir Mpasa), Pascal Ngobi, Jeromy Kirya (Mugulusi), Ibrahim Orit (Tezikya), Reagan Kalyowa (Aprem Martin), Isaac Wagoina, Dickson Mataama (Innocent Rwothomio)
Unused Substitutions:
John Okurut (GK), Sowedi Lwenda, Thomas Ochungo, Bakali Magumda, Fredrick Ngalo, Amos Kirya, and George Kasonko
BUL FC celebrating after winning the trophy last season
Defending champions BUL FC are set to face Maroons FC in the opening match of the FUFA Super 8 tournament tomorrow at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. The Eastern Giants, who won the title last season, are confident of a positive start in this campaign.
BUL FC boasts a strong squad, bolstered by the signings of Bakali Magumba, Thomas Ochungo, Najib Fesali, Dickson Mataama, and Isaac Wagoina. Head Coach Abbey Bogere believes his team has what it takes to overcome Maroons.
“We face Maroons tomorrow in the FUFA Super 8, and as defending champions, we’re aware that this year’s edition is different, with a home-and-away basis and only two pitches, which negates the home advantage.”
“We’re prepared, having trained for a few weeks. The players are ready and prepared to defend the trophy. They’re eager to play with all their heart and secure three points from Maroons.”
TEAM NEWS:
Douglas Muganga remains sidelined with a knee injury, but the rest of the squad is available for selection.
Defender Benon Tahomera expressed optimism ahead of the game:
“We’re all prepared for tomorrow and ready to pick maximum points from Maroons while defending the trophy. We urge our fans to turn up in large numbers and rally behind us.”
Maroons, however, won’t be easy opponents, boasting a talented, experienced, and young squad.
MATCH COVERAGE:
The game will be broadcast live on TV, with timely updates on our social media handles, followed by a post-match report and match highlights.
Thomas Ochungo has today become an Eastern Giant with the left back signing a two-year contract.
Ochungo posing with head coach Abbey Bogere
The roving fullback joins us from Gaddafi FC, the team that brought him to the limelight.
Ochungo is one of the most promising fullbacks in the Uganda premier league with alot of potential.
He is a product of the FUFA juniors league having featured for Jinja Municipal Hippos in the first edition of the competition before his stellar performances earned him promotion to the senior side in 2017.
Ochungo first joined Gaddafi FC in 2020 when they were still in the Eastern regional league and guided them to the big league and then to the topflight, before he switched his allegiance to Busoga United in 2022.
Ochungo penning down at BUL
He re-united with the Soldier boys in 2023, scoring two goals and recording one assist last season.
BUL FC is pleased to announce the signing of striker Dickson Matama from Jinja North FC.
The striker has signed a three-year contract with the Eastern Giants and will immediately join up with his new team mates for pre-season.
Striker Dickson Mataama
Upon completing his transfer, Mataama said;
“I think BUL FC is the team that can improve me as a player. According to the way I play, it is the team I believe can elevate my game and I believe I am going to become a monster while here.”
“I think I am in the right place that can help me grow as a player, and I promise to work very hard not to disappoint. I am a kind of a striker who likes scoring goals, and I hope to hit at least 15 goals next season.”
Head coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere said;
“I have been following him, I have been watching him in the big league and I realised he can score. He is so fast, he is that kind of striker who can’t fail to score. If given three, four or five chances, Mataama can convert at least three of them if given the opportunity to play.”
“So if he can produce goals in a difficult competition like big league, how about in the Uganda premier league where he even has the privilege to partner with quality players? I think he will give us plenty of goals.”
“We only had Alex Kitata on the striking line last season and we struggled whenever he was injured. This time, we have opted to get a partner who can ably step in to help Kitata in case of anything and I think we are not going to face the same challenges we faced in the previous season.”
Coach Abbey unveiling Dickson Mataama
Mataama is a product of Bugembe Youth Academy. He joined lower division club Dream Killer FC in 2019 before he was captured by Bugiri De School in 2020.
In 2022, he was transferred to Jinja North while still in the Eastern regional league and guided the club to the FUFA big league where he scored 13 goals across the two seasons he featured in the second tier.
He also played for Butembe County in the Busoga Masaza Cup in 2022.
He will now begin the next chapter of his career with the Eastern Giants. Welcome to BUL FC, Ma – Taa – Ma!
Isaac Wagoina has finalized his move from Express to BUL FC. The forward joins the club after penning a two-year contract which keeps him at the Eastern Giants until 2026.
Striker Isaac Wagoina
Wagoina is widely regarded as one of Uganda’s best strikers apparently and arrives at the club with a formidable goal scoring reputation following an impressive spell at Express last season.
The threat he causes in the final third is underlined by his 17 goal involvements, including 14 goals and three assists in 29 games he played as Express finished 12th last season.
He was also the top scorer of the 2023 FUFA Drum tournament with seven goals while playing for Busoga Province.
After sealing the move, Wagoina said;
“Thank you for welcoming me to BUL FC. It was my decision to join this club, I was not coerced.”
“I looked at all the teams that were chasing my signature and BUL was the best amongst all. Arguably, it is the biggest team in Uganda.”
“I looked at its ambitions, ability and possibility of winning great things and all the boxes were just ticking.”
“I then decided as a player that this is the right team I should play for. I believe it is the team that will improve me as a player and possibly also take me to the national team ranks.”
“Therefore, I have come here to work hard and also join forces with my fellow players to see that the team achieves its goals.”
He previously played for Iganga Young, Busoga United and Busei United before switching to Express at the start of last season.
Everyone at BUL FC welcomes Wagoina to the Club and wishes him the best of luck throughout his time here.
BUL FC is pleased to announce the signing of Bakali Magumba from Mbarara City. The 27 year-old defender has signed a two-year contract with the Eastern Giants.
Defender Bakali Magumba
On joining BUL, Magumba said;
“It’s a dream come true for me to be here now. I have been a fan of this great club since childhood and always dreamt of playing for the team.”
“BUL is our home team and I am proud that they have given me the chance to comeback home.”
“This is the team I have always wanted to play for, it’s the team that I have been working hard to impress, and now that I have got the opportunity to put on these colors, I and my fellow players shall fight hard to achieve the team’s goals.”
Magumba comes with a wealthy of experience in the topflight having featured for Busoga United (2017-2018) and Gaddafi FC (2019 -2023) in the Uganda premier league before he was transferred to Mbarara City.
The defender also plays for Busoga Province and was named on the best eleven of the FUFA Drum in the last edition.
Coach Abbey unveiling Bakali Magumba
He began his career as a goalkeeper at Tahweed Academy before converting into a defender.
Defender Ronald Otti has left the club after the expiration of his contract.
Ronald Otti celebrates with teammates
During his two-year tenure at BUL, Otti helped the team win the Super 8 trophy in 2023 and was very instrumental as the Eastern Giants finished second last season.
Defender Ronald Otti in action
Everyone at BUL FC appreciates his contribution to the team and wishes him the very best at his new club. Thank you.
Lawrence Tezikya celebrating after scoring against Vipers.
BUL FC will become the first club to host from Namboole stadium in four years as they will host its home fixture against Vipers at the newly redeveloped stadium on Wednesday.
The clash is among the test series of matches to be held at the facility before it is passed by CAF to host international matches.
Abbey Kikomeko’s men will be looking to return to winning ways and possibly return to the top of the table after going two games without victory.
Alex Kitata in action
The Eastern Giants lost 1-0 to NEC in their last Uganda premier league outing before the sides drew 1-1 in the semifinals of the Uganda Cup.
Wednesday’s clash is a battle between the 3rd and the 2nd, and the winner will automatically march to the summit of the log as both sides have 46 points, only two behind current leaders Kitara.
Matches between the two sides have quite often produced fireworks, and more of the same is expected on Wednesday. BUL FC was fabulous in the reverse fixture, winning 3-2 at St. Mary’s stadium with the Venom’s long standing home record coming to a halt in the process.
BUL FC players celebrating
This will be the 28th league meeting between the two teams.
Team News
Douglas Muganga is still out nursing an injury.
“We are playing one of our last four games this season. We defeated Vipers 3-2 in the first leg but they may come with full force tomorrow,” Coach James Magala said.
“We have also prepared very well. We have already felt the pitch and the players are in good conditions. We have prepared the boys very well and they are ready in every aspect.”
“We have crafted the right plan for this match and we are waiting for the game to kick off.”
“We are ready as players. The coaches have done their part; we have trained at Namboole pitch for two days now.”
“The game is expected to be tough as we all need the three points to enhance our chances of winning the trophy.”
“Even if we are at a neutral ground, we can beat them.” says forward Alex Kitata
Head-to-head
P27 W5 D7 L15
The teams have faced off on 27 occasions in all competitions since 2011, producing five wins for BUL, fifteen for Vipers and seven draws.
Last four encounters
December 17, 2023
Vipers SC 2-1 BUL FC
May 23, 2023
BUL FC 1-1 Vipers SC
August 12, 2023
BUL FC 1-0 Vipers SC (Super 8 quarter finals)
December 22, 2023
Vipers SC 2-3 BUL FC
Match Facts
BUL FC has picked eight wins, two draws and losses apiece in 12 home fixtures to collect 26 points from a possible 36.
As a result, the Eastern Giants have scored 17 goals and conceded six only across the games.
It is three wins, two draws and one loss for BUL in their last six outings.
And the team is also unbeaten in their last four home games – winning three and drawing one in all competitions.
The Eastern Giants have now won three games and drawn one of their last five meetings with the venoms across all competitions.
This fixture has produced a total of 65 goals and BUL have 23 to their name since 2011.
Only six stalemates have come in the games involving the sides, and four were goalless.
Vipers have won five games, drawn three and lost one in ten (10) away games to pick 18 points from a possible 30.
The Venoms have also won only one game in their last four outings in all competitions.
Match Coverage
This mouthwatering clash is live on television and all our social media channels will relay minute to minute text commentary concurrently.
BUL FC welcome KCCA FC to the FUFA technical centre on Saturday afternoon in the Stanbic Uganda Cup quarter finals, with both sides entering the game following convincing wins almost a week ago.
The Eastern Giants who had not won in four outings beat Wakiso Giants 3-0 to get back to winning ways last Saturday.
The victory gave Abbey Kikomeko’s men a life line in the title chase and this cup competition provides a double front on which to fight for a silverware this season.
BUL made it to this stage with three super wins against Simba FC (3-0), Kyambura Rastas (1-0) and Express (4-1 on penalties).
KCCA FC reached the quarter finals thanks to wins over Admin/Bugisu United (2-0), Jinja North United (2-0) and URA FC (1-0) and is yet to concede a goal in the competition.
Both sides exited the cup at this level last season but this time one will have a chance to play in the semi finals.
BUL have already enjoyed success over KCCA this season, beating them 1-0 at FUFA technical centre in September last year before they mustered a goalless draw in February at Lugogo.
But the visitors have recorded five wins in a row from their last five matches, keeping three clean sheets.
Team News
The coach confirmed the club has a clean bill of health and has no single suspension to contend with.
His remarks;
“We played KCCA twice in the league, we won them 1-0 here and then played out a 0-0 draw at Lugogo. But we are now playing them in the Uganda Cup which is a totally different competition,” Abbey Kikomeko said.
“All I know is they’re going to come full force, wanting to qualify for the next level.”
“But we also want to qualify for the semi finals. We lost at the quarter finals last season. This time we want to perform better and if possible, we March up to the finals or even win the trophy.”
“Our target for this edition is nothing short of the trophy. Whatever competition we play in and it has a trophy, it ultimately becomes our target.”
Captain George Kasonko said;
“There are no second chances at this level of the competition. We should handle each game at a time and this moment we are focusing on the game with KCCA.”
“If we are to meet some of the goals for the club this season , we should win it.”
“So we are not just going to play KCCA, but we are looking at beating them.”
Head-to-head
The victory gave Abbey Kikomeko’s men a life line in the title chase and this cup competition provides a double front on which to fight for a silverware this season.
BUL have already enjoyed success over KCCA this season, beating them 1-0 at FUFA technical centre in September last year before they mustered a goalless draw in February at Lugogo.