Premier league leaders Vipers are all set to travel to Fufa stadium, Kadiba to face title rivals SC Villa in a thrilling fixture on Wednesday.
The two sides, arguably the best in the season so far face off in an intriguing clash that could be decisive in the destiny of the title this season.
There are a number of key battles spread across the pitch that could prove to be key in determining the outcome of the clash on the night and here are the top picks.
Patrick Kakande vs Ashraf Mandela
When at his best, Kakande is one of the most feared attackers in the league. Following a slow start to the season, the winger cum midfielder appears to be back at his best as witnessed in the win against KCCA. He will be tasked to drive Villa’s attack and faces a challenge from currently, Vipers’ preferred right back Ashraf Mandela.
With his blistering pace, Mandela will be tasked to cover and break Villa’s attacks. However, he must be wary of Kakande’s trickery.
Meanwhile, Kakande will be tasked to track back and help out his fullback when Vipers has possession.
Simon Ssemayange vs Usama Arafat
Usama Arafat represents a serious danger for SC Villa’s backline. His eight League goals and five assists highlight his attacking prowess, and he’ll be targeting Simon Ssemayange. While the Villa left-back’s attacking contributions are undeniable, his susceptibility to explosive wingers is a weakness Vipers will like to ruthlessly exploit especially he goes forward or inside to support the midfield.
Meanwhile, Vipers will have to be switched on against Ssemayange’s attacking outputs. He has the ability to unlock the opponents defence with his vision and alongside Kakande on its left flank can cause serious headaches to the Kitende based side.
Aslam Ssemakula vs Taddeo Lwanga
Lwanga has emerged as a vital cog in Vipers’ midfield since he returned to the club. He’s also an active contributor out of possession, constantly leading the press. However, he be up for a tough battle against Villa’s Aslam Ssemakula, someone who can glide out of pressure and wreak havoc in between the lines as witnessed against KCCA.
To neutralize Ssemakula’s playmaking threat, Lwanga must prioritise close marking and disrupt his influence.
Hassan Mubiru vs Enock Luyima
Vipers’ Luyima will have a tricky task of trying to stop in form Hassan Mubiru from wreaking havoc down the right flank.
The winger has astonishing pace, can shoot and dribble as well but in Luyima, he faces his equal in age and the Vipers’ youngster has proved an asset down the left flank and also contributes going forward and has an accurate cross.
Frank Ssebuufu vs Hilary Mukundane
Ssebuufu and Mukundane are already well acquainted. Their fiery battles during the times at Wakiso Giants and even in the first-round clash at Kitende garnered attention.
The Villa forward came out on top with a goal in the reverse fixture but another battle awaits at Kadiba.
Based purely on current form, the battle will surely be one to enjoy.
Geoffrey Lubangakene vs Milton Karisa
With Barasa Mangoli doubtful for the clash, the onus is on Lubangakene to try and stop Vipers’ captain Milton Karisa.
Karisa’s transformation into a centre forward has yielded fruits with his relentless high press and never give up attitude will test Lubangakene and a foot race between the two is expected to fire up the showdown.
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