SC Villa continues to take bold steps toward building a sustainable future, with a clear focus on nurturing young talent and strengthening its football structure over the next five years under the stewardship of Hajji Omar Mandela.
The Junior Joogos lineup on Sunday against Police Fc JT
As part of this vision, the club has prioritized the development of a strong youth and reserve system that will serve as the foundation for the next generation of Jogoo stars.
Head Coach Nebojsa Kapoor
To lead this initiative, Nebojsa Kapoor has been appointed Head Coach of the Young Jogoos and the reserve side, Wembly FC, who compete in the Kampala Regional League. His role will be central in identifying, developing, and preparing emerging talents for the senior team.
Goalkeeping Coach Benjamin Ochan
Further strengthening the technical setup, former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan has joined the youth structure as the club’s goalkeeping tactician. Ochan, who earned 23 caps for Uganda national football team, retired from active football in January after a stint with NEC FC. A former SC Villa player during the 2011/12 season under Mike Mutebi, he also enjoyed a successful spell with KCCA FC, where he won three league titles. His experience, combined with his role on the FUFA Academies League Organising Committee, adds immense value to the club’s youth development agenda.
Sula Matovu during a game during his playing time
Also joining the technical team is Sulaiman Matovu, who takes on a dual role as a trainer within both the youth setup and the senior team. Popularly known as “Malouda,” Matovu brings a wealth of experience from a career that saw him rise through Proline FC to represent the Uganda national football team, before playing internationally for St. George SC, Erbil SC, BK Häcken, and Kaizer Chiefs. He joined SC Villa in January 2025 on a one-year contract and has since transitioned into coaching following his retirement earlier this year.
Sula Matovu During his active days with the Uganda Cranes.
Together, Kapoor, Ochan, and Matovu begin a new chapter on the touchline—tasked with guiding, mentoring, and shaping the future of SC Villa, as the club builds a strong pipeline of talent to sustain success for years to come.
On 10th March 2026, our Electoral Committee Chairman, Brian Kajubi, officially declared Hajji Omar Ahmed Hussein—whom we all know as Mandela—as President of Sports Club Villa for the next five years after he emerged unopposed.
For us as SC Villa, this moment is not just about a new mandate. It is about continuity. It is about a relationship that has been built over decades—one that mirrors our own journey as a club.
Mandela’s story with SC Villa is, in many ways, part of our story.
Born in 1960 in Kampala and raised in Kisenyi, Mandela grew up in an environment not far removed from where our roots were first planted. Like many young football fans of his time, his earliest loyalties were elsewhere, but the events of 1977 reshaped the football landscape—and, in time, brought him closer to us.
His connection to SC Villa was never sudden. It grew naturally, influenced by his surroundings and the people closest to him. His father, a humble supporter, played his part in our early days—offering what he could, even purchasing footballs for the Nakivubo Boys when resources were scarce.
Those acts of quiet support would go on to define the spirit Mandela himself carried into our club.
As a young boy, he spent evenings watching our players train at Nakivubo. Even then, he found ways—however small—to contribute, sometimes treating players to tea in Kisenyi. These were simple gestures, but they reflected something deeper: a sense of belonging that would only grow stronger with time.
As we evolved, so did he.
In the early 1980s, Mandela began building his business career, eventually establishing the Mandela Group of Companies. As his capacity grew, so did his ability to support us—not loudly, but consistently. During the 1980s and early 1990s, when we needed stability, he was among those who quietly ensured that we remained strong.
His official leadership journey with us began in 1993, during a time of transition. He stepped in as Treasurer under President Francisco Mugabe, and from that point, his influence became clear.
He helped shape teams that defined our dominance, playing a central role in strengthening our squad and reinforcing our competitiveness. Many of the decisions taken during that period carried us through one of the most successful eras in our history.
By 1998, when he became Vice Chairman – Administration, it was evident to many that he was part of our future leadership. His commitment, discipline, and understanding of the club made him one of the key figures within our structure.
Like any long journey, ours has not been without difficult moments.
In 2004, after a painful incident with sections of our fanbase, Mandela stepped away from official responsibilities. It was a moment that affected him deeply—and, in many ways, it was also a moment of reflection for us as a club.
But even in his absence, the connection never truly broke.
He remained close to us, offering support when needed and standing by the club during uncertain times, even if from a distance. That bond—formed over years—endured.
In 2021, when we found ourselves at another critical point, Mandela returned. Once again, he stepped forward—not for recognition, but because the club needed stability. His unopposed election as President reflected a shared belief: that he understood what SC Villa needed.
Since then, together, we have rebuilt.
We have restored structure, discipline, and belief. And in the 2023/2024 season, we celebrated a moment that meant so much to all of us—winning our first league title in 20 years. It was not just a victory on the pitch, but a reflection of the work that had gone into bringing us back to where we belong. Earlier this Season 2025/26 , the Jogoos also clinched their first Super 8 silver ware.
Now, as he begins another five-year term as our President, and continues to serve on our Board of Trustees, we do so with a shared understanding: this is not a new chapter—it is a continuation of a long journey.
From the early days at Nakivubo to where we stand today, Mandela has grown with SC Villa, just as SC Villa has grown with him.
His story is not separate from ours. It is part of who we are.
SC Villa (the Jogoos) will take on Maroons FC this Thursday night in a crucial Stanbic Uganda Premier League Round of 16 clash. The Jogoos need a full-time victory to secure progression to the next stage of the competition.
This will be the third meeting between the two sides, with both teams having won once in their previous encounters. SC Villa heads into the match in strong form at home, boasting an impressive unbeaten run they will be eager to extend.
The team has a nearly full squad available, with only young left-back Merrickzedek Mangeni and midfielder Geoffrey Gaganga ruled out. New addition Andrew Okumu is likely to debut tomorrow.
New Addition Andrew Okumu
Midfielder Isaac Mpagi expressed confidence ahead of the game:
The coaches have prepared us well tactically. Maroons is a tough team, but playing at home gives us confidence. We haven’t been beaten here, and we want to keep that record. I’m fit and ready, and if given the opportunity, I will give my best for the team.
SC Villa (the Jogoos) will take on Maroons FC this Thursday night in a crucial Stanbic Uganda Premier League Round of 16 clash. The Jogoos need a full-time victory to secure progression to the next stage of the competition.
This will be the third meeting between the two sides, with both teams having won once in their previous encounters. SC Villa heads into the match in strong form at home, boasting an impressive unbeaten run they will be eager to extend.
The team has a nearly full squad available, with only young left-back Merrickzedek Mangeni and midfielder Geoffrey Gaganga ruled out. New addition Andrew Okumu is likely to debut tomorrow.
New Addition Andrew Okumu
Midfielder Isaac Mpagi expressed confidence ahead of the game:
The coaches have prepared us well tactically. Maroons is a tough team, but playing at home gives us confidence. We haven’t been beaten here, and we want to keep that record. I’m fit and ready, and if given the opportunity, I will give my best for the team.
The Jogoos will be eager to return to winning ways when they visit PCCP FC at Bugonga Fisheries Grounds in Entebbe on Saturday afternoon.
Previous Match team photo
Match Statistics
Both teams have shown a tendency to share the spoils in recent matches. PCCP FC has drawn 50% of their last six games, while SC Villa has also recorded three draws in their previous six outings.
Looking at the head-to-head record, PCCP FC has struggled against the Jogoos, losing four of their last six meetings.
Team News
Young talent Martin Mamer, a 16-year-old midfielder from the SC Villa U17 side, has been added to the squad and is available for selection ahead of today’s match.
U17 player Martin Mamer
Pre-Match Reactions
We have corrected the mistakes from our previous away loss. We need the points to keep our dream of reaching the top of the table alive, and that means we must fight for them on the pitch.”
— Farouk Matovu
Farouk Matovu
“They are just a point behind us, so they need the points as much as we do. It’s going to be a very competitive match. The squad is ready and we believe we can get the points on the road.”
The Jogoos will be eager to maintain their momentum as they continue their push to stay competitive at the top end of the Uganda Premier League table.
Following a goalless draw at home against Express FC in the derby, SC Villa travel to face Uganda Police FC on Tuesday afternoon at Kira Road Police Grounds in Kamwokya.
The Linglong Boys currently sit fourth on the league table, and victory could see them climb as high as second place depending on other results.
Charles Lwanga in action against Police fc
Meanwhile, Police FC have experienced a mixed run of results this season. The Cops have shown resilience in several matches but have struggled to find consistent form.
Recent meetings between the two sides have often ended evenly. In their last ten encounters, seven matches have finished in draws, while SC Villa have won three. Police FC are still searching for their first win in that run.
Team News SC Villa could welcome back striker Charles Lwanga to the squad, with the rest of the team available for selection.
Diego Semugera in team training.
Midfielder Diego Semugera emphasized the importance of the fixture:
“We understand the task ahead. We know we need to win tomorrow’s game to close the points gap at the top. They are playing at home and it will be a tight fixture, but we need the points more
Head coach Zeljko Kovacevic also stressed the need to bounce back after dropping points in the previous match:
We dropped points at home in our previous game, which means tomorrow’s game is the one to go for.
SC Villa will host their archrivals Express FC in the return leg of the Uganda Premier League, renewing one of the fiercest rivalries in Ugandan football — the famous Kampala Derby.
The Jogoos currently sit fourth on the league table and will be determined to secure maximum points in front of their supporters as they continue their push for a stronger finish this season. The derby has always carried more than just three points, with pride, history, and bragging rights in Kampala at stake whenever the two giants clash.
The rivalry between Villa and Express dates back several decades and has produced some of the most memorable moments in Ugandan football. Both clubs are among the most decorated in the country, with Villa dominating the late 1980s and early 2000s while Express enjoyed historic success in earlier years. Their encounters have consistently drawn massive crowds and intense atmospheres, making the Kampala Derby one of the most anticipated fixtures in the domestic calendar.
Frank Sebuufu scored in the first leg
In recent meetings, however, Villa have held the upper hand. In the last ten encounters, the Jogoos have registered seven victories, while Express have managed just two wins, with the remaining match ending in a draw.
Charles Lwanga Returned to training this week
Ahead of the clash, Villa could be boosted by the possible return of Charles Lwanga and Najib Yiga. Aside from those potential additions, the Jogoos are expected to maintain the same squad that has featured in recent matches.
Head coach Kovacevic Zeljko emphasized the importance of the encounter, highlighting the magnitude of the derby and the motivation it brings to the team.
Head Coach Zeljko Kovacevic
It’s a derby and one of the biggest matches in Ugandan football. Games like these naturally motivate the players, and they always give their all to make sure we get a positive result. Playing at home adds even more responsibility, so the boys must push harder to secure maximum points.
Winger Hassan Mubiru also shared his thoughts ahead of the derby, stressing the significance of the clash and calling on supporters to rally behind the team.
Hassan Mubiru celebrating at Kadiba recently
It’s a derby and both teams have a rich history in Ugandan football. We have prepared well and the players are ready to give everything on the pitch. I call upon our fans to come in large numbers and support us as we fight for the three points.
SC Villa will host BUL FC on Wednesday, 25th February 2026, in the Round of 32 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
This will be the third meeting between the two sides in all competitions this season, with each team having claimed one victory so far. The last time BUL FC visited Kadiba was during the FUFA Super 8, where the Jogoos emerged victorious.
Team News
Charles Lwanga on the left celebrate his Goal with Mpande
The Jogoos will be without forward Charles Lwanga, who is sidelined through injury, as well as Simon Semayange. Jeans Braddy Wokorach will also miss the match as he serves a suspension.
Abdul Muwonge during last training.
Youngster Abdul Muwonge could make his first appearance in a matchday squad, while new signing Farouk Matovu is also in contention.
Norman Angufindri during a game in Bombo
Speaking ahead of the fixture, goalkeeper Norman Angufindri said:
The coaches have prepared us well for the game. Every department is ready to fight for a place in the next round. We know BUL FC is not an easy team, but we are at home and we will do everything possible to secure the win.
SC Villa have completed the signing of defender Farouk Matovu, popularly known as “Musota,” from UPPC FC.
The experienced center-back joins the Jogoos as the club continues to reinforce its defensive department, with anticipation also surrounding the situation of defender Arnold Odong.
Matovu is widely recognized for his physical strength, composure on the ball, and sharp game-reading ability. His arrival is expected to add stability and leadership at the back.
“I am loving everything here at Villa,” Matovu said. “The coaches have shown faith in me by giving me this opportunity, and I am ready to repay that trust. I am optimistic about playing here for the next two years.”
The 29-year-old defender has previously featured for several clubs, including KCCA FC, BUL FC, Express FC, and Kiyinda Boys FC, in addition to his most recent stint at UPPC.
Matovu arrives fit and ready for selection, with everyone at SC Villa welcoming him and wishing him a successful spell at the club.
SC Villa return to action as they host Maroons FC in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, with the Jogoos determined to secure maximum points on home soil. As they continue their push near the top of the table, Villa will be eager to turn recent draws into a vital victory and maintain pressure on the teams above them.
Team in Talk during Uganda Cup game.
Villa currently sit on 31 points from 16 matches, while Maroons occupy mid-table with around 18 points. The Jogoos have been formidable at home this season, winning the majority of their matches in front of their fans. In contrast, Maroons have found life difficult on the road, losing four of their last six away league fixtures.
Historically, the contest has been closely fought. In the last 15 meetings, SC Villa have claimed six wins compared to Maroons’ two, with seven matches ending level. However, the most recent encounter saw Maroons edge Villa 1–0 in December 2025, adding extra motivation for the hosts heading into this clash.
Isaac Mpagi back to fitness
Team news sees Villa miss the services of left back Simon Semayange due to injury, while Isaac Mpagi has returned to full fitness and is available for selection. The rest of the squad is fit and ready for the challenge.
Aslam Semakula during team training.
Midfielder Aslam Semakula acknowledged the importance of the fixture, saying:
We’ve drawn our previous two games and the pressure is high, so we just have to get all the points and get into a much better position on the log.”
Assistant head coach Peter Onen emphasized the need to sharpen up in attack, noting
We’ve not been scoring, so it’s been our focus during training. We need to score more and win our games. We understand Maroons FC is not an easy team, but the points are all that we need.”
Kick-off is set for 8pm at FUFA Stadium Kadiba, where Villa will look to make home advantage count.
The Jogoos are back in action this Saturday as SC Villa travel to face URA FC in the opening game of the second round of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
SC Villa will be targeting maximum points as they look to close the gap at the top of the table, currently sitting 6th in the standings.
Since 2016, the two sides have met 16 times in the league. URA FC have won 5 of those encounters, SC Villa have won 4, while 7 matches have ended in draws—setting the stage for another competitive clash.
All eyes will be on Saturday’s showdown as the Jogoos aim to start the second round on a strong note. The camp has also received a boost with the return of Diego Semugera to full fitness, while the rest of the squad is available for selection.
Speaking to club media, head coach Zeljko Kovacevic said:
Every game in the second round is a hard game because teams want to collect maximum points in the next four months. We’ve prepared well ahead of this match. I urge all the fans to come in big numbers because with them comes the energy for us as a team.
Left back Simon Semayange added:
I believe the coaches have given us the tactics, so it’s work on the pitch now and we get the points on the road. As defenders, we look forward to keeping a clean sheet, it being the first game in the second round. The fans have always given us the energy to go forward, so we will need them in Nakivubo Stadium.
SC Villa travel East to face Pallisa Hospital FC in the Round of 64 of the 52nd Stanbic Uganda Cup. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides.
Frank Sebuufu in last training.
Team News: The Jogoos will be without goalkeeper David Lukwago, while Hamis Diego Semugera returns to the squad for coach Zeljko Kovacevic’s selection.
Diego during team training
Barasa Raymon Mangoli expressed the team’s readiness, saying:
We’ve prepared well for this fixture and everyone is fit and ready to feature in Pallisa. We need to win this so that we move on to the next round.
HeadCoach Zeljko Kovacevic
Speaking to the club media, coach Zeljko Kovacevic emphasized the importance of the competition:
We need this tournament as much as the Premier League. Winning it means qualification to represent the nation at a top tournament. We’re not taking any chances—we have to win our games and keep the silverware in sight.
The match will be played at Pallisa Hospital Grounds on Friday, kicking off at 3PM.
SC Villa host Lugazi FC at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, on Saturday 31st in the final fixture of the first round of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
A victory for the Jogoos would move them closer to a top-three finish on the league table as the season heads into its second phase. This will be the fourth meeting between the two sides, with SC Villa enjoying the upper hand in previous encounters — recording three wins and one draw against Lugazi FC.
David Lukwago will be Out tomorrow
Team News
SC Villa will be without first-choice goalkeeper David Lukwago, who is sidelined with a mild fever. Hassan Mubiru is suspended after accumulating yellow cards, while Diego Semugera continues his recovery. Apart from these absentees, the rest of the squad is available for selection.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Assistant Coach Peter Onen emphasized the importance of finishing the round strongly:
We know what is at stake in this match. It’s the last game of the first round and we want to end it on a high. The players are focused, motivated, and ready to give everything for the badge. Our target is clear — to keep pushing ourselves into the top positions.
Frank Sebuufu
Forward Frank Sebuufu echoed the same determination, calling on the team to deliver a strong performance:
Every match is important, but this one means a lot to us. We want to finish the first round strongly and give our fans something to smile about. We have prepared well and we are confident of getting a positive result.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba.
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