KCCA FC's unsettling start: A crisis of commitment?

KCCA FC players warm up before a training session at St Mary's Stadium in Kitende | KCCA FC Image

FOOTBALL KCCA FC's unsettling start: A crisis of commitment?

Clive Kyazze • 11:06 - 04.10.2023

The Kasasiro Boys are going through a rough patch. Their opening two losses in the 2023/2024 Startimes Uganda Premier League paint a bleak picture.

One would have to flip the pages of history back to their debut season in 1974 to find a similarly dismal start.

First, a 1-0 defeat in Njeru against BUL, and then, adding insult to injury, a 2-1 loss at their fortress, Lugogo, against Maroon.

Add to the mix their disappointing exit from the CAF Confederation Cup at the hands of Libyan squad Abu Saleem, and you have a recipe for discontent.

The current squad is eclectic - a blend of youth and experience, native talent and foreign flair. With a new coach at the helm, Sergio Tranquil, the expectations were high.

His initial promises felt like a fresh wave of optimism. However, the ground reality paints a different picture.

Perhaps it's not just about Traguil's tactics, formations, or strategies. There seems to be a deeper issue: the attitude of Ugandan players.

Historically, coaches have been held accountable for failures that, more often than not, can be traced back to a lack of commitment from the players. This pattern isn't exclusive to KCCA FC.

At Lugogo, the faith in Tranguil remains unshaken, but there's an urgent need for introspection within the dressing room.

The senior players especially in Moses Waiswa, Muhammed Shaban, Julius Poloto, Derrick Ochan, Peter Magambo, Filbert Obenchan, Herbert Achai, Usama Arafat and others, must shoulder the responsibility and lead by example.

Sergio Traguil has started his KCCA career on a slow note, losing the opening two games of the season | KCCA FC Image

Victory on the pitch demands passion, commitment, and an unwavering desire to excel.

The recent match against Maroons is a testament to the lack of hunger. Barring Shaban's solitary goal, one would be hard-pressed to recall significant attacking threats from KCCA FC.

The midfield seemed devoid of ideas, the flanks lacked creativity, and goal-scoring opportunities were a rarity.

The potential in these players is evident. But talent without the right attitude can never yield results.

If they wish to contest for the championship, a significant shift in mindset is mandatory. They need to approach each game with the diligence and dedication that their profession demands.

If the current trend continues, Lugogo might witness yet another season without silverware.

And as history suggests, the blame might fall on the coach. But, for those who've seen the story unfold, it's clear that the players who chose complacency over commitment would be the real culprits.

The ball is in their court now. Will they rise to the occasion, or will another coach be made the scapegoat? Only time will tell.

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