Buffaloes, Impis set for muddy battle at Kyadondo

The matches between the Buffaloes and Impis have always been a fiery contest, with the former taking home the win in the last encounter, but not without any bruises.

In that 17-11 Buffaloes’ victory at the Graveyard, Impis went ahead through Benjamin Mukisa, but his efforts were cancelled out by a penalty try for the visitors. Buffaloes then went on the offensive once again and scored a converted try to settle matters comfortably ahead at the break. 

Impis then tried to mount a comeback in the second half through Michael Musiimenta’s try in the corner, but those hopes were once again dashed through Daniel Kateregga’s penalty. A late penalty from fullback Jerome Tasiku wasn’t enough for the Makerere side.

Today, that rivalry is going to be renewed, but the difference this time around is that both teams are in a better place than they were back in 2024. The Buffaloes are at the summit of the men’s championship, unlike fighting for the mid-table spots, while the Impis are almost clear of the relegation positions, where they battled the Buffaloes in their last league encounter.

A closer look at the Squads

Buffaloes named a 23-man squad that comprises Kennedy Muhumuza starting and Godfrey Ayebale coming off the bench, two former Impis stalwarts. Ayebale was a key player for Impis on that last occasion, starting at his favourite hooker position against his current employers. On the other hand, Muhumuza was largely unavailable in that period, but was a willing and loyal Impi whenever he donned the green.

For Impis, only Harrison Ssejemba, Pius Mpoza, Guma Arinde and Brian Ngabo featured in 2024, and have been selected to play once again in 2026. It comes as no surprise that all the aforementioned players are forwards, as Impis has ushered in a new generation of backs led by the exciting Darren Aine, who reverts to his preferred fullback position.

Whereas the Buffaloes have equally introduced new and young players to the scene, they still possess the same threats they did over two years ago. Players like Douglas Musoke and Aaron Tukei are still holding it down for the Kyadondo side and have only grown from strength to strength. The younger players like Daniel Baddo and Hussein Shein, and mercurial signings, Yasin Waiswa and Moses Olweny, will be featuring for the first time in this encounter, taking home memories of a lifetime.   

Whichever way this game goes, every fan should look out for the set piece. In the lineout, Titus Oyoo has been impressive for the Buffaloes, while Impis captain Clarence Muhumuza has had some good throws and, on most occasions, found his jumpers. However, the sauce is at the scrum!