Express FC head coach Jimmy Kintu has called on his players to stay focused ahead of their Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 clash against Red Devo FC on Friday night.
Speaking before the game, Kintu said the team is well prepared and determined to deliver a strong performance.
“We have been preparing for this fixture very well and the camp is in good spirits to fight for the badge. We are to treat this fixture just like any other and not take it for granted,” Kintu stated.
“We shall put up a strong performance so as we qualify to the next round. I call upon our dear fans to come in big numbers and rally behind the boys.”
The match will be played under floodlights at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, with kick-off set for 7:00 PM.
Express FC, also known as the Red Eagles, have shown determination in this year’s competition. Their journey began in Pakwach, where they needed a late equalizer from Henry Wamala to force a penalty shootout against Pakwach Young Stars before progressing.
In the Round of 32, Express put in a solid performance to defeat Ntugasaze FC 2-0 at the Kira Road Police Arena. Goals from Ssenyonga Mikdadi and Henry Wamala secured their place in the last 16.
This will be the second Uganda Cup meeting between Express and Red Devo FC. The two sides last met in the previous edition, where Express edged Red Devo 1-0 in Amorata thanks to an early goal from Steven Timothy Ssenfuma.
Express head into the tie with confidence after a 3-1 victory over URA FC in the Uganda Premier League, a result that has boosted the team ahead of the knockout clash.
Midfielder Elvis Ssekajugo is available for selection after missing the previous round, and the rest of the squad is fit with no injuries reported by the team doctors.
Express FC will now look to use home advantage as they aim to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
