Umar Lutalo Relives Derby Delight and Sets Sights on Greater Heights
cityzens-stories—14 October 2025
I knew I would score. I have scored from a similar distance before. The distance from the ball to the goal was perfect
KCCA FC’s midfielder, Umar Lutalo, is still relishing the spectacular free kick that sealed victory for KCCA FC against his former club, SC Villa, in the Kampala derby.
The goal, a moment of individual brilliance, was more than just three points for Lutalo but one that has fueled the player’s motivation for the future.
Speaking to the KCCA FC TV about the decisive strike, Lutalo exuded confidence, stating,
I knew I would score. I have scored from a similar distance before. The distance from the ball to the goal was perfect. I looked at the position of the goalkeeper, and I knew if I hit the ball over the defense wall, then it was definitely a goal.
Lutalo quickly likened his free-kick goal in the Kampala derby to arguably that of the greatest footballer that ever lived, Lionel Messi’s free kick against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League in 2019.
The free kick reminded me of Messi’s goal against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. Liverpool’s wall and keeper Alisson could do absolutely nothing as Messi curled home a stunning 25-yard free kick.
Umar Lutalo gestures after scoring against SC Villa in the Kampala derby held at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole
Lutalo had just been introduced for Shafik Kwikiriza in the 84th minute, five minutes later, his sensational strike from a free kick sailed over the wall and nestled into the net to win the derby for KCCA FC.
The knowledge that his family was watching back home made the occasion even more special.
The goal was a proud moment for me, as I had my mom and family watch the game back at home. I spoke to them after the match, and they were so happy and proud.
Lutalo joined KCCA FC in January 2025 from Kitara FC on an initial short contract until the end of the season. Before Kitara, he spent three seasons at SC Villa, where he won the 2023/24 Uganda Premier League title.
Umar Lutalo
Lutalo has represented the Uganda U20 side (Hippos) at the AFCON U20 in Egypt in 2023 and has been part of the senior Uganda Cranes squad for the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifier games against Somalia (home), Guinea (away), and Botswana (home).
The splendid goal against SC Villa is a catalyst, Lutalo said with belief.
This goal will push me to achieve more
The midfielder recently committed his future to the club, putting pen to paper on a new two-year contract until the end of the 2026/27 season.
As Umar Lutalo settles into his long-term future with KCCA FC, the club and its faithful will be hoping that the spectacular free kick against Villa is only the first chapter in a story filled with more great moments and silverware.
KCCA FC will return to action this Thursday, 16th October, with a home fixture against Lugazi FC at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, at 8pm.
Umar Lutalo | Training
