Steven Bogere takes helm at Lugazi FC as new head coach

Lugazi FC has appointed experienced tactician Steven Bogere as their head coach on a one-year contract, aiming to help the team remain in the Uganda Premier League.

Bogere’s appointment follows the club’s recent struggles, which led to the dismissal of former head coach Sadiq Ssempigi after a five-match winless run.

Interim coach Oliver Mbekeka stepped in and made history by guiding Lugazi to their first-ever Uganda Premier League win with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Express FC at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, earlier this week. Mbekeka’s achievement was groundbreaking not only for Lugazi but also for Ugandan football, as she became the first female coach to lead a men’s football team in a Uganda Premier League match.

While many anticipated that Mbekeka would retain the head coaching role, the club management, led by proprietor Abdu Kawuulu, opted for the experience of Bogere to ensure the club begins an early battle to survive relegation. Kawuulu expressed his gratitude to Mbekeka for the historic victory and requested her to remain as assistant coach to Bogere.

Bogere brings a wealth of experience, both as a former player and coach. Famous for his skills as an attacking midfielder with SC Villa and the Uganda Cranes in the 1980s, he has also held coaching stints with his former club Villa, Onduparaka, Proline, UPDF, and notably led Buddu to their first Masaza Cup title in 2016.

Tasked with the huge responsibility of helping Lugazi stay in the league, his immediate focus will be on strengthening the team’s standing on the table, where they currently sit with five points from six matches. His debut match as Lugazi coach is set for next Wednesday at Lugazi Stadium in Najjembe, where they will host high-flying NEC FC.