ZANZIBAR CITY – The stakes for Uganda’s representatives, URA FC, have reached a fever pitch at the Amaan Stadium following Azam FC’s clinical 2-0 victory over defending champions Mlandege FC on Friday evening.
The “Tax Collectors,” who began their campaign with a spirited 1-0 win over Mlandege, now find themselves in a three-way battle for the top spots in Group A.
Azam’s victory not only solidified their own title ambitions but also officially ended Mlandege’s hope of defending their crown on home soil.
Azam Dominates as Mlandege Bows Out
Azam FC, five-time winners of the tournament, showed no mercy to the hosts. The Tanzanian giants took the lead just five minutes into the game when Zidane AlinSereri rose highest to meet a cross from Kibeku with a superb header.
Despite Mlandege’s efforts to claw back into the game, Azam’s captain and former midfield general Himid Mao sealed the result in the 54th minute with a trademark clinical free-kick.
The loss leaves Mlandege with zero points from three games, making them the first team to exit the 2026 edition.
The Implications for URA FC
For Hussein Mbalangu and his URA side, the group standings have become a tight squeeze. Both Singida Black Stars and Azam FC currently sit on 4 points, though URA follows closely with 3 points and a crucial game in hand.
Group A Standings as of Jan 2nd:
- Singida Black Stars 4 points.
- Azam FC 4 points
- URA FC 3 points
- Mlandege FC 0 points.
The Big One: URA vs. Singida Black Stars
The focus now shifts to Saturday’s blockbuster clash at the Amaan Stadium, where URA FC will face Singida Black Stars. A win for the Tax Collectors would catapult them to the top of the group with 6 points, effectively putting one foot in the knockout stages.
Coach Mbalangu is expected to rely on the pace of Fred Amaku, the hero of the opening match, and the creative spark of skipper Aliro Moses. However, Singida—who drew 1-1 with Azam on New Year’s Eve—are known for their physical presence and tactical discipline. “We know the task ahead. Seeing Azam win today puts the pressure on us to perform tomorrow,” a source from the URA camp noted. “The boys are ready to represent Uganda and secure that top spot.”
