Saturday, August 17*SC Villa Vs CBE (Ethiopia) – Namboole, 4pm
Watch: SC Villa final preps:
SC Villa will be aiming to make a triumphant return to continental football when they face Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) in the first leg of the CAF Champions League’s first preliminary round this Saturday at Namboole Stadium.
The Jogoos last graced the continental stage on February 20, 2016, securing a 1-0 victory over Morocco’s FUS Rabat at the same venue during the CAF Confederation Cup qualifiers.
However, their was nothing to celebrate then as they crashed out with a 7-1 aggregate defeat, following a heavy 7-0 loss in the first leg in Morocco.
Having ended a 20-year drought by clinching the Uganda Premier League title last season, SC Villa earned their place back in this prestigious stage.
The club’s newly appointed head coach, Morley Byekwaso, is optimistic about their chances in the tournament.
“We are privileged to be representing Uganda on the continent, and our target is to have a deep run and see that we can reach the groups,” said Byekwaso, who recently took over the reins after the departure of Dusan Stojanovic.
“We have a less experienced side with a couple of young players who have never tasted continental football, but we have tried to give them ample preparations to ensure they are ready.”
Byekwaso emphasized the importance of securing a win in the first leg, aware of the challenges posed by Ethiopian teams. “Our focus is getting a win, of whatever scoreline. We know what kind of challenge Ethiopian teams can put up, and we don’t want to give them any space.”
The match at Namboole was confirmed mid-week after a day of intense negotiations, following concerns from the stadium renovation contractor that the venue was not ready for the game.
Despite the uncertainties then, Byekwaso assured that the team remained focused on the task at hand.
SC Villa will be missing key players Diego Hamis Ssemugera and Reagan Mpande for Saturday’s clash.
The Jogoos have had rocky preparations, having been eliminated early in both the CECAFA Club Championship and the FUFA Super 8.
However, they hope to have made the necessary corrections and are eager to capitalize on home advantage against CBE.
Watch – CBE training at Namboole
