The highly anticipated 2023 Victoria Cup is set for an exhilarating finale, bringing to life the dream showdown cherished by East African rugby fans.
This climactic event will take place at the King’s Park Arena in Bweyogerere, Kampala on Sunday, pitting host nation Uganda against their perennial rivals, Kenya, in the championship decider.
Kenya, having seized the inaugural title in 2010, currently leads the standings with 5 points following their commanding 36-12 victory over Zambia at the Kyadondo Rugby Club on November 1. Carrying a +24 points difference, they are resolute in evading a loss against Uganda, aiming to end a 13-year title drought.
Uganda, also off to a strong start with a bonus point win over Zambia, triumphed 30-8 in the tournament’s opening match last weekend. This achievement granted them 5 points and a +22 points difference. They eagerly anticipate confronting their fierce rivals in this match, also heralding the commencement of the Elgon Cup.
Counting on the seasoned leadership of Ivan Magomu and Micheal Okorach, Uganda aims to capitalize on the fervent support of their home crowd in Bweyogerere to clinch a victory.
Kenya’s Simbas boast influential figures like fullback Jone Kubu and captain George Nyambua, set to lead their charge in Kampala for an anticipated electrifying contest. Fly-half Brian Wahinya is also anticipated to play a pivotal role for the team.
In a statement prior to the clash, Simbas Assistant Coach Curtis Aluoch remarked, “Our encounters with Uganda have always been fervent derbies, and fans should not miss this one. Analyzing our performance against Zambia has motivated us for the upcoming showdown with our brothers.”
Nyambua expressed contentment with the victory over Zambia but voiced a need for sharper performances against Uganda, affirming, “I’m pleased with our win against Zambia, but as we approach the Uganda fixture, we must sharpen our play and raise our performance against our opponents.”
This much-awaited match will kick off at 4:00 PM and will be streamed live on the Uganda Rugby Union’s YouTube Channel.
Source: Kenya Rugby Union
