Lwanga’s stellar performance earns him ForteBet Real Stars award

Despite SC Villa’s mixed performance in the Uganda Premier League this season, forward Charles Lwanga has emerged as a standout player.

He has netted seven goals in 10 matches and is determined to add more to his tally as the campaign progresses.

Lwanga’s impressive form earned him the ForteBet Real Stars award for November, recognizing him as the best football player during an awards ceremony held yesterday at Lazio Restaurant in Kololo, Kampala.

His remarkable performance included six goals in November, highlighted by four in a single match against UPDF in Villa’s 5-0 victory and a brace during the 6-1 triumph over Wakiso Giants. Both matches were played at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku.

After receiving the award from Isaac Mukasa, CEO of ForteBet Real Stars awards, Lwanga shared that his drive to join Uganda Cranes’ Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) squad has fueled his recent performances.

“I am so happy to win this award. Hard work pays, and I thank my teammates and SC Villa for providing me the platform to shine. I have been working hard because I want to play in CHAN. If I keep scoring and helping my team, I’m confident the national coach will notice me,” Lwanga said.

Lwanga has set ambitious goals for the season. Initially targeting 15 league goals, his strong start has inspired him to aim for 20. Beyond individual achievements, he is focused on helping SC Villa defend their league title.

“I initially targeted 15 goals, but after a good start, I believe I can score 20. My priority is also to help my team win matches because our goal as a squad is to retain the league title,” he added.

Currently, SC Villa sits fifth on the table with 14 points, eight points behind leaders NEC after 10 matches. Villa has struggled on the road, failing to win any of their five away games, losing four and drawing one. Interestingly, all of Lwanga’s goals have come at their home ground in Wankulukuku.

“Our away form has been poor, and we understand the fans’ disappointment. As players and coaches, we are determined to improve. Defensive strength is our main area of focus, and we are training hard to defend better in our next matches,” Lwanga noted.

Villa’s next fixture is against Lugazi FC at Wankulukuku on Friday. The match will see them face a familiar face in Lugazi’s head coach, Steven Bogere, a former SC Villa player.

Lwanga edged out Vipers’ Allan Okello and Milton Karisa for the football award. The event also recognized athletes from other disciplines. Jas Mangat, the National Rally Championship winner, took home the motor rally award following his Kabalega Rally victory. Lydia Namabiro won the rugby category, while Riazat Ali Shah was honored for his achievements in cricket.

Additionally, veteran sports journalist Hassan Badru Zziwa received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his 35 years of dedication to sports journalism.