Mbalangu sees positives despite URA’s Mapinduzi Cup

Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) FC head coach Hussein Mbalangu has taken positives from his side’s Mapinduzi Cup campaign despite their elimination, saying the tournament has sharpened his team ahead of the resumption of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.

URA’s journey in the 2026 Mapinduzi Cup ended with a painful 2-1 defeat to Tanzanian giants Azam FC in their final Group A match on Monday, January 5, a result that denied the Tax Collectors a place in the semi-finals.

“We have learnt a lot from this Mapinduzi tournament. The boys have seen that hard work delivers results, and we have also talked a lot about confidence,” Mbalangu said.

URA started the decisive match brightly, knowing only a win would secure qualification. Their early pressure paid off in the 10th minute when striker Nelson Ssenkatuuka clinically converted a well‑timed assist from Moses Aliro to give the Ugandan side the lead.

Azam responded swiftly. In the 20th minute, Congolese forward Japhet Kitambala Bola punished a defensive lapse to level the scores and shift momentum back to the Tanzanian side.

The game remained tense throughout the second half, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert. Just when a draw seemed inevitable, and enough for Azam to progress, young midfielder Alobogast Kyobya struck in the 94th minute, netting a dramatic winner that sent Azam into the semi-finals and broke URA hearts.

Reflecting on the campaign, Mbalangu remained upbeat and praised the level of competition.

“We gave our best in this tournament, but this is what has happened. It has sharpened us ahead of the Uganda Premier League that resumes this week,” he said.
“It was a good tournament. We faced strong teams like Azam and Singida, who play hard football. We shall go with what we have learnt. The boys’ attitude was good.”

The URA coach stressed that his focus has now fully shifted to the league.
“URA is very structured. I am going to implement my knowledge. I want intensity and aggressiveness in the team. We need to compete, and my target is winning. All my mind is on the league now,” he added.

In Group A, Azam FC finished top with seven points, followed by Singida Black Stars with five. URA placed third with four points, while Mlandege FC exited without a point.

Despite the disappointment, URA defender Ronald Otti was recognized for his discipline and performance, scooping the Fair Play Award and a cash prize of 500,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately sh750,000).

The Tax Collectors now turn their attention to domestic football. URA return to StarTimes Uganda Premier League action on Sunday, January 18, when they face Entebbe UPPC at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo. They currently sit 10th on the league table with 11 points.