Paidha Black Angels SC face their biggest early-season test when they visit bitter rivals Onduparaka FC at Greenlight Stadium on Sunday, October 11, in the FUFA Big League.
The Blacks have made a perfect start, winning both opening matches 1-0. Michael Ssimbwa has been their difference-maker, scoring in victories over Kaaro Karungi FC at Kyamate Playground and Kiyinda Boys FC at Bar Okoro Stadium.
Coach Twinomatsiko’s side sits top of the table and will be eager to maintain its winning run. However, facing Onduparaka on their home turf presents a different challenge.
The Caterpillars head into the derby looking to recover from a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Kiyinda Boys FC in their opening match at Bertham Recreational Grounds.
Akena Geoffrey’s side has received a boost with Norman Brown returning from international duty and experienced striker Alfred Leku joining the squad. However, Rashid Okocha remains unavailable as his playing licence issues are resolved.
Kaggwa ( PBA ) in action against Onduparaka FC at Green light stadium last season.(Courtesy)
Onduparaka FC Public Relations Officer Toko Karim has urged supporters to turn up in large numbers, stressing the importance of fan support as the club pursues its return to the Premier League.
“It’s a derby. We respect Paidha Black Angels, but they should know we are at home. This is our first home game of the season, and we are not going to laugh until the final whistle,” he said.
Head of Marketing and Communications Owen Ezaga has also called for a peaceful atmosphere, urging supporters to welcome travelling fans and cheer their teams responsibly.
Paidha Black Angels SC PRO Francis Jalmalikiliki rallied the club’s supporters ahead of the derby, describing Arua as a second home for the Bar Okoro-based side.
He confirmed that the return of Jonathan Kisaku, Kasamba and Kadu from injury had boosted the squad, with at least 18 players expected to travel to Arua City on Saturday night ahead of Sunday’s encounter.
Jalmalikiliki urged fans to rally behind the team as they pursue maximum points, insisting that the club’s ultimate mission remains promotion to the Uganda Premier League.
He also called on supporters to paint Arua black and white in a show of solidarity with the team.
Derby atmosphere at Greenlight stadium in Arua. ( Photo Credit:Ma vegas)
The two sides have met six times, with Onduparaka recording their only victory in a 2-1 Uganda Premier League win at Greenlight Stadium on December 8, 2018. Paidha have won twice at Bar Okoro, while three meetings have ended in draws.
Their most recent encounter, on May 17, 2026, finished goalless at Greenlight Stadium.
Neither side has won a FUFA Big League match at the venue, adding another talking point ahead of Sunday's showdown.
Paidha will be chasing a third consecutive win, while Onduparaka are desperate to respond in front of their home supporters.
Form favours the visitors, but derbies have their own rules. At Greenlight Stadium, pride, pressure and West Nile bragging rights will all be on the line until the final whistle.
