Kitara coach Wasswa Busa unfazed by Al Ahly threat ahead of CAF Confederation Cup clash

Kitara FC head coach Wasswa Busa insists his team are capable of securing a positive result against Egyptian giants Al Ahly when the two sides meet in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup Round of 32 tie on Saturday.

The Ugandan side will welcome the record African champions to Hoima City Stadium, with Busa expressing confidence in his players’ ability to compete despite the significant difference in continental experience between the two clubs.

Kitara head into the encounter in encouraging form after overcoming Somalia’s Mogadishu City Council in the previous round. They won both legs to progress with a convincing 4-1 aggregate victory, setting up a challenging test against one of Africa’s most decorated clubs.

Despite Al Ahly’s reputation and achievements on the continent, Busa insists his players will not be intimidated by the occasion, stressing that their attention is firmly on delivering a strong performance in front of their home supporters.

According to Ugandan media outlet Kick Off, the Kitara coach believes his side have the quality to challenge the Egyptian giants and fight for victory on home soil.

Busa also confirmed that his entire squad is available for selection, providing the technical team with a full complement of players as they prepare for the crucial first-leg encounter.

While acknowledging the significance of hosting a club of Al Ahly’s stature, the coach urged his players to concentrate on their own game rather than become distracted by their opponents’ history and continental accomplishments.

He believes a disciplined display and the support of the home crowd could help Kitara secure a favourable result before travelling to Egypt for the return fixture.

Busa has consequently appealed to Kitara supporters to turn out in large numbers at Hoima City Stadium, describing their backing as an important source of motivation for the players. He also highlighted the financial importance of fan attendance to the club and expressed hope that the team would reward its supporters with an impressive performance.

Kitara assistant coach Andrew Lawley has also expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, while acknowledging the quality of their Egyptian opponents. Lawley believes his players can rise to the occasion and produce an entertaining performance in what promises to be a significant continental test for the Ugandan club.

The first leg is scheduled for Saturday at 4:00 p.m. in Uganda, with the return fixture set for October 25 in Egypt. The two matches will determine which side advances to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.

For Kitara, the tie represents an opportunity to make a statement on the continental stage, while Al Ahly will be keen to avoid an upset and take a decisive step towards qualification.