AFC Leopards Friendly To Highlight Express Day

Watch highlights of Express Day Press conference here:

Express FC is set to host Kenyan giants AFC Leopards in an international friendly on August 16, 2024, at their new home ground, Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

This much-anticipated clash will be the highlight of Express Day, marking a new chapter for the Red Eagles as they prepare for the 2024/25 season.

AFC Leopards, with 12 top-flight league titles, are Kenya’s third most successful club, trailing only Tusker FC (13 titles) and Gor Mahia (18 titles).

The friendly promises to be a thrilling encounter, drawing attention from fans across the region.

The event will also serve as an official unveiling for Express FC’s new signings and the complete squad, including the coaching staff, for the upcoming season. In addition, fans will have the opportunity to interact with the club’s administration, addressing any questions about management and future plans.

Express FC CEO Ashraf Miiro emphasized the importance of the day, noting the presence of former chairpersons, including current Patron Kiryowa Kiwanuka.

Miiro also acknowledged the critical role of former chairman Godfrey Kirumira in securing Nakivubo as the club’s new home, following their departure from Wankulukuku stadium.

“After our match against Villa at Nakivubo, we engaged with our fans about the possibility of moving here permanently,” Miiro said.

“The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, thanks to the great experience at the new venue. We’re not just tenants at Nakivubo; we’re partners. We’ve even been given a shop to sell our merchandise.”

Miiro highlighted the stadium’s prime location in the city center, which offers fans the convenience of attending matches while avoiding traffic delays.

The move to Nakivubo, however, has sparked mixed reactions among fans, particularly with the announcement that entrance fees will double from Sh10,000 to Sh20,000.

This stadium shift marks the end of an era for Express FC at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, their home since 1991.

Interestingly, before their move to Wankulukuku, Express FC had hosted their league games at Nakivubo, making this transition a homecoming of sorts.

Nakivubo Stadium board chairman Rogers Mulindwa revealed that several Uganda Premier League (UPL) clubs expressed interest in making Nakivubo their home, but only two were selected.

“As management, we prioritized at least a team with a historical connection to this venue. Our primary goal is to foster a team’s growth and development, not just provide a hosting space.”

“We aspire to offer players access to top-notch facilities, such as modern gyms, comparable to those admired in international clubs. Ultimately, we aim to enhance the team’s financial resources and capabilities,” Mulindwa stated.