Ugandan football’s oldest rivalry returns to the spotlight on Saturday as SC Villa and Express FC lock horns at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba in what promises to be another intense Kampala derby.
The Jogoos head into the clash determined to stay within touching distance of the Uganda Premier League’s front runners, currently spearheaded by Vipers. With uncertainty still surrounding their abandoned encounter against Calvary, Villa sit fourth on the table with 34 points and know victory over their city rivals is crucial to strengthening their title ambitions.
Villa attacker Hassan Mubiru, a graduate of the Express academy, is set for an emotional encounter against his boyhood club. However, the forward insists the focus within the Villa camp remains firmly on securing maximum points.
“It is a tough game against a local rival and one of the most prestigious teams in the country,” he said.
“As Villa players, we are focused on winning to keep in the race and we take each game as it comes,” he added.
The Kampala Derby is on at Kadiba!#SCVEXP || @UPL #TheJogoos pic.twitter.com/nLrWf2yDDq
— SC Villa (@SCVillaJogoo) March 7, 2026
Defensively, Villa will rely on a backline marshalled by Barasa Mangoli, who will be tasked with neutralising the threat posed by Express’ recent signing Kenneth Kimera.
While solidity at the back will be key, Villa’s real challenge may lie in converting their chances in the final third.
Forward Frank Ssebuufu, the hero of the 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture, is expected to spearhead the attack for the 17-time champions. He could be supported by Mubiru, Patrick Kakande, and Ibrahim Kasinde in a potentially dangerous frontline.
Villa will also be boosted by the return of Najib Yiga, who is back from suspension after missing the Calvary match due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
Meanwhile, Express will look to their recent additions to provide fresh impetus. New recruits Marvin Nyanzi, Kenneth Kimera, and the left-footed Habert Asiimwe are expected to play key roles as the Red Eagles aim to upset their fierce rivals.
Elsewhere in the Uganda Premier League on Saturday, leaders Vipers travel to face Mbarara City in Kamwenge. URA will take on Entebbe UPPC away from home, while Maroons welcome Buhimba at Luzira.
