Uganda Cup: URA eye first-leg edge; Mbalangu calls for big-game mentality

URA FC head coach Hussein Mbalangu has challenged his players to rise to the occasion Monday and make full use of their home advantage when they host SC Villa under the Nakivubo floodlights in their Stanbic Uganda Cup first leg clash.

Smiles in training, focus on the mission 😄💪

Positive energy, clear mindset — all eyes on @SCVillaJogoo this Monday under the lights. We’re ready 👊 @FUFAUgandaCup #URAFC | #OneTeamOneDream | #StanbicUgandaCup | #52ndEdition pic.twitter.com/agph7y9brO

— URA Football Club (@URAFC_Official) April 30, 2026

With a place in the final firmly in sight, Mbalangu believes this is the moment for his side to step up and deliver, especially in front of their supporters.

“This is a big stage and we must rise to it,” Mbalangu said. “Playing at home gives us an edge, and we have to make it count from the first whistle.”

Despite facing a Villa side that has enjoyed dominance in recent meetings, the tactician struck a confident tone, insisting his team will approach the contest with belief rather than fear.

“We respect SC Villa because of their quality and history, but we don’t fear them. Football is decided on the pitch, and we are ready to compete,” he added.

The Tax Collectors have struggled for wins against the Jogoos in recent seasons, with Villa unbeaten in their last seven meetings.

However, URA’s home record in this fixture offers encouragement having gone eleven matches unbeaten against Villa on home turf, including six wins.

Mbalangu also expressed satisfaction with his team’s preparation leading into the high-stakes encounter, highlighting the unity and commitment within the squad.

“Preparations have been really good. The players have responded well, everyone has given their best, and the mood in camp is positive. That gives me confidence going into this match.”

However, he was quick to sound a warning to his defense, urging maximum concentration against Villa’s dangerous attacking trio of Patrick Kakande, Hassan Mubiru, and Frank Ssebufu.

“We must be very careful defensively. Villa have quick and intelligent attackers who can punish you if you switch off. Concentration will be key for us.”

The Tax Collectors boss also made a passionate appeal to the club’s supporters to turn up in large numbers and play their part in pushing the team forward.

“I call upon all URA fans to come and support the team. We need them behind us, and I promise they won’t be disappointed.”

URA team news ahead of Uganda Cup semifinal first leg

Mbalangu’s charges are boosted by the return of Hudu Mulikyi, offering a timely reinforcement ahead of the clash. However, they will be without midfielder John Innocent Kisolo and defender Bright Vuni, both suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.

Injury concerns also persist, with Arthur Kiggundu, Olimi Nyarwa and Abdul Magada ruled out of the encounter.

URA booked their semifinal spot in dramatic fashion, overturning a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with KCCA FC before advancing via penalties. SC Villa, meanwhile, edged past lower division side Happy Boyz Kagaba with a narrow 1-0 victory.

Historically, URA have lifted the Uganda Cup three times, last winning it in 2014, while SC Villa boast nine titles, with their most recent triumph coming in 2015.

Elsewhere, the other semifinal clash saw Kitara FC play out a goalless draw in the first leg at Royals Park in Butema on Sunday, leaving everything to play for in the return leg.