Uncertainty surrounds one of the places in the Round of 16 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup after Police FC formally challenged the eligibility of a player used by Lugazi FC in their Round of 32 encounter.
Lugazi appeared to have progressed comfortably after securing a 2–1 victory over Police at Kira Road Arena. However, the result has been thrown into doubt after Police lodged a petition with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations, claiming that Lugazi fielded a player who was not eligible to take part in the competition.
The protest centers on forward Umar Kyebatala, who found the net during the match. Police argue that the attacker had already represented another side, Football Classroom, earlier in the same edition of the tournament before later completing a move to Lugazi, which would contravene competition regulations.
The matter is now in the hands of FUFA’s judicial bodies, whose ruling will determine which team advances to the next round of the country’s premier knockout competition.
Meanwhile, the Round of 16 draw has already been conducted at FUFA House in Mengo, setting up several intriguing ties. Depending on the outcome of the pending case, either Police or Lugazi will face NEC FC in the next stage.
Elsewhere, defending giants SC Villa will square off against Maroons, while KCCA take on Onduparaka. Surprise package Happy Boys Kagaba will host Six O’clock, and Kitara will battle Bunyaruguru United.
Express have been paired with Red Devo, Vipers will meet Iganga United, and URA will clash with Tapoh.
The Round of 16 matches of the Stanbic Uganda Cup are scheduled to be played between March 16 and 18.
