)
Kochi Urban, a Yumbe Town-based team, is on the verge of setting up thrilling West Nile derbies in the upcoming FUFA Big League season if they can advance past Young Elephants in the second leg of the qualifying round.
In the first leg held on Sunday, June 10, at Yumbe Boma Grounds, Kochi Urban secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Nwoya-based Young Elephants.
Bashir Asraf was the hero, scoring the solitary goal with a perfectly curled shot from a direct corner kick.
Before this match, Kochi Urban overcame Nebbi Central with a 1-0 victory in the zonal playoffs, while Young Elephants emerged victorious against Lira City FC in their respective regional championships.
With the first leg win, Kochi Urban holds an advantage heading into the second leg, scheduled for June 17 at Anaka Primary School in Nwoya.
If the West Nile Zone winners progress to the Big League, it will set the stage for exciting local derbies.
)
"We share a close bond with them [Onduparaka FC and Calvary]," Simon Matua, the Kochi Urban captain, noted.
"However, Young Elephants is a challenging team, especially since we're going to their home."
"God was on our side. We got the goal [in the first leg]. It will not be easy, but God willing, we shall get the qualification," he added.
Calvary FC, another Yumbe-based team and a renowned talent feeder for West Nile giants, could emerge as fierce rivals in the battle for local bragging rights.
Calvary FC finished in a respectable mid-table position last season, securing the ninth spot with 40 points from 30 matches.
Additionally, the return of Onduparaka Football Club, based in Arua, to the second-tier league adds further anticipation for intense derby clashes in the upcoming season.
For Kochi Urban, the task at hand is crucial to avoid joining relegated Adjumani Town Council in the regional league.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)