Maroons FC head coach Abdallah Loi Umar believes his side is beginning to show the character and quality required to compete strongly in the 2026/27 Uganda Premier League season.

Umar made the remarks after Maroons responded to their opening-day defeat to URA FC with an impressive 3-1 victory over league newcomers Ntugasaze at Kira Road Police Arena on Wednesday.

The coach said the victory was important not only for the three points but also for restoring confidence within the team after the disappointing result against URA.

“It was time to show the character and believe that we can really challenge this season,” Umar said.

Maroons established control early, with Jackson Nunda scoring twice before the interval. Marvin Oshaba then added a third shortly after the restart.

For Umar, the early advantage was part of a deliberate plan to take advantage of the spaces Ntugasaze would leave behind as they searched for a way back into the game.

He explained that his message at half-time was to remain focused and look to finish the contest.

The task became more difficult after captain Edward Kabona was sent off, forcing Maroons to play the final stages with 10 men.

Umar immediately shifted the team's approach from chasing another goal to managing the game, keeping possession and denying Ntugasaze spaces to attack.

The coach admitted that Ntugasaze's goal raised concern, particularly with the home side having the backing of their supporters and pushing forward for a second.

However, he was pleased with how his players responded.

Building a Stronger Squad

Umar also believes Maroons' improved squad depth is beginning to give the technical team more options.

The coach explained that the club deliberately brought in young players capable of competing for places alongside experienced members of the squad.

According to Umar, this has created healthy competition and increased the number of players available for selection.

“We have now a bigger squad to select from at any one moment,” he said.

The coach also highlighted the challenge created by the league requirement to field two young players in the starting XI, explaining that it can affect tactical changes during matches.

Despite the challenge, Umar believes the young players are adapting well and becoming an important part of the team.

Umar Backs Nunda

The coach was particularly pleased with Jackson Nunda's performance after the forward scored both of Maroons' first-half goals.

Umar described Nunda as an exceptional player who has confidence in his own ability and believes he can consistently deliver when given the right preparation.

He was especially impressed that both goals came through headers.

“Yesterday he showed that quality,” Umar said.

However, Umar called for patience with Marvin Oshaba, who scored the third goal but has yet to reach the level of performance expected of him this season.

The coach noted that Oshaba had enjoyed an excellent Super 8 campaign, scoring in each of Maroons' three matches, and believes the high expectations may have contributed to the pressure on the striker.

Working With Haly

Umar also addressed the growing influence of young midfielder Haly, who has impressed with his energy and involvement across the pitch.

While the coach praised his confidence and work rate, he identified decision-making in the final third as an area that still needs improvement.

Umar believes Haly has the potential to become a dangerous player for Maroons and says the technical team will continue working with him as he gains experience.

“He is a boy that we got almost in the last week to the start of the season,” Umar explained, adding that he expects the youngster to mature with time.

Looking Ahead to Blacks Power

Maroons' next challenge comes against Blacks Power on September 8, with the Hoima-based side having made a perfect start to the campaign.

Umar acknowledged the quality of Blacks Power coach Simon Mugerwa but admitted that he does not yet have detailed information about how his next opponents play.

Nevertheless, the Maroons coach knows the importance of collecting points early in the campaign.

“We will work around to see that we get positive results,” he said.

A Call to the Maroons Fans

Umar concluded by calling on Maroons supporters to turn up in numbers and provide the team with the support it needs throughout the season.

The coach believes the supporters can play an important role in helping the players maintain confidence and momentum.

“I call upon the fans to come out there and be the 12th player,” Umar said.

Following the victory over Ntugasaze, Umar and his players will now look to build on the result as Maroons continue their campaign with ambitions of becoming a competitive force in the Uganda Premier League.

By:

Fred Akena