The Uganda Rugby Cranes are preparing for an important match against the Kenya Simbas in the second leg of the 2024 Elgon Cup. The game will take place on Saturday, November 16, at Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere. This match will determine who wins the Elgon Cup this year.
Isaac Lutwama, the CEO of Uganda Rugby Union, spoke at a press conference on Friday about the significance of the match, as it marks 20 years since the Elgon Cup started in 2004.
“This competition is very special to us as it celebrates two decades of rivalry,” he said.
Lutwama expressed the team’s hope to take advantage of their home crowd after losing 27-25 in the first leg in Nairobi.
“We are determined to make a comeback and use our home support to win the Elgon Cup in 2024,” he added.
This match is the last major tournament for Uganda Rugby Union in 2024. Lutwama encouraged fans to come out and support the team.
“I invite all fans to join us in celebrating this tournament this weekend,” he urged.
On the other hand, Kenya’s head coach, Jerome Paarwater, expects a challenging match. He admired Uganda’s performance in Nairobi.
“The game was tough, and Uganda played very well. Our boys managed to handle the pressure,”
Paarwater mentioned that his team had limited time to prepare before the first match but felt they were better prepared after spending extra days in Kakamega.
“We were not fully ready, but the extra days in camp should help us,” he explained.
He anticipates a more strategic game this time. “Both teams have seen each other’s game footage, so it will be a tactical battle. Set pieces and discipline will be very important. I expect a hard-fought match that could be decided in the final minutes,” he said.
The match is highly anticipated, as Uganda aims to reclaim the Elgon Cup while Kenya hopes to maintain their title. The game will be broadcast live on NBS Sport, with the kickoff set for 4 p.m.
