Express FC will be eager to kick off their second round of the Uganda Premier League (UPL) on a winning note when they host BUL FC under the floodlights at Nakivubo Stadium this evening.
The Red Eagles have struggled in recent meetings with the Jinja-based side, failing to secure a victory in their last four encounters. Their last triumph over BUL came in the 2022/23 season when they completed a league double—winning 2-1 away before edging them 1-0 at home.
Express ended the first round in third place with 25 points, a position they attained after a disciplinary ruling saw KCCA deducted points for fielding an ineligible player. A victory tonight could move them closer to second-placed NEC, who are not in action until tomorrow.
Despite their promising position in the standings, Express has endured a turbulent campaign off the pitch, with financial struggles reportedly affecting player morale. However, captain Emmanuel Wasswa remains optimistic about their chances.
“We want to start the second round with three points, and as players, we are ready,” Wasswa affirmed.
Interim head coach Badru Kaddu, who replaced Baker Mbowa in October, will be determined to lead his side to a strong start in the second round.
BUL, currently ninth with 20 points, will be desperate to improve their standing after an inconsistent first half of the season. The team has been a tough opponent for Express in recent seasons, remaining unbeaten in their last four meetings in all competitions (two wins, two draws).
Head coach Abbey Bogere Kikomeko will hope that new signings Viane Ssekajugo and Karim Ndugwa provide the attacking edge BUL has lacked, having scored just 13 goals in 15 matches.
A victory for BUL could propel them to sixth place if Maroons, who host Bright Stars in an earlier fixture, fail to win.
For Express, tonight’s match is not just about three points—it’s about snapping their winless run against BUL and setting the tone for a successful second round.
Kickoff is set for 7 PM at the Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
