Last season, Lugazi FC made a remarkable debut in the Big League, securing a commendable fifth-place finish with 44 points, a mere 13 points behind the champions, Kitara FC.
Lugazi FC prepares to kick off their 2023/24 BetPawa FUFA Big League season with a clash against Ndejje University FC at the hallowed grounds of Lugazi Stadium.
After missing out on matchday one, Lugazi FC is eager to make a resounding statement right from the start.
Last season, Lugazi FC made a remarkable debut in the Big League, securing a commendable fifth-place finish with 44 points, a mere 13 points behind the champions, Kitara FC.
Their journey to the second flight was an inspiring tale, having risen from the third division league during the 2021/22 season.
This season, the club has made no secret of its ambitions, openly declaring the desire to clinch promotion.
As they brace themselves for their first game, Coach William Kyeswa exuded confidence: "The boys are ready, and thank God we have no injuries."
A clean bill of health is certainly a boon for the team, offering the coach more options for his starting lineup.
Kyeswa, in his pre-match remarks, urged the fans to come out in full force to support the team's lofty aspirations’
"We are not hiding what our ambition is; we want to fight for promotion, so we need to make that clear from the start."
In their final pre-season test, Lugazi FC showcased their readiness by triumphing with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Dream Chasers FC.
Now, the challenge lies in carrying this momentum into the early season fixtures to build confidence as the campaign unfolds.
Captain Ssali Elijah Brian echoed the team's readiness and set the tone for the season: "The team has been in preparation, and we are very ready for the season.”
“The mission of this season is to push for promotion to the top flight. We have cooked something new."
"We want them to join us for the journey, and back us along the way. We know how important our fans are, especially at home, so they should come along in good numbers and give us that extra push."
Coach Kyeswa has taken steps to strengthen his squad for the promotion bid, making several astute signings during the primary transfer window.
New additions include Latif Kiyemba, Sam Ssemugugu, Ronald Ssempala, Alvin Birungi, Freedom Mungudit, James Okiror, Abraham Opio, Mubarak Mitala, Andrew Odong, Abdul Kalanzi, Emran Fahad, and Samuel Nsubuga.
Additionally, key players such as Brian Elijah Ssali, Paul Wasswa, Louis Anguti, Derrick Ochen, Muhammad Lubega, Isaac Tamale, and Faisal Matovu have committed to the cause by signing new contracts.