ZANZIBAR CITY – After a grueling two-day journey across East Africa, Uganda’s representatives, URA FC, officially landed in the “Spice Island” of Zanzibar on Monday morning.
The “Tax Collectors” opted for the scenic route, arriving via the Kilimanjaro V Ferry to a warm reception. The team has since checked into the Camila Airport Hotel, which will serve as their base of operations as they hunt for their second Mapinduzi Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2016.
Straight to Work
There is no time for tourism for the tax collectors. To shake off the “bus-legs” from their long trek, the team scheduled their first training session for Monday evening at the Breez Training Center.
The focus is squarely on recovery and tactical drills ahead of their opening fixture.
The Group A “Grip”
URA FC finds itself in a challenging Group A, alongside some of the region’s heaviest hitters. The tournament officially kicked off on Sunday, and the group has already seen drama:
Mlandege FC, the local favorites and defending champions, suffered a setback in the curtain-raiser, losing 1-3 to a clinical Singida Black Stars.
This result puts immense pressure on Mlandege ahead of their clash with URA FC on New Year’s Eve (December 31st).
Azam FC, the five-time record winners, complete the formidable Group A lineup.
The Tournament Outlook
While URA battles in Group A, the rest of the 10-team tournament is divided into two other tight groups:
Group B: Featuring Fufuni SC, Muembe Makumbi, and the Tanzanian giants Simba SC.
Group C: Comprising KVZ FC, TRA Utd, and Young Africans (Yanga SC).
For URA FC, the mission is clear: navigate the “Group of Death” and bring the silverware back to Entebbe. With Mlandege already wounded from their opening-day loss, the Tax Collectors will be looking to capitalize on any defensive frailties come Wednesday.
