Paidha United unveil squad, land Messi from Black Angels ahead of regional league kick-off

Full report

By Mike Rwothomio

West Nile outfit Paidha United SC have officially unveiled their 2026/27 squad as they prepare to launch their FUFA First Regional League campaign at the historic Bar Okoro Stadium in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District on Saturday against Okokoro united from Maracha district .

The Friday october 23rd unveiling ceremony that attracted hundreds including key figures like Alur Kingdom executive director Vincent Orach Ocaya, veteran sports journalist Wolenga slot, management of Paidha Black Angles SC, and other football lovers, kicked off with a friendly match between management of Paidha United SC and their partner Rest Inn Hotel at Bar Okoro stadium

The Comrades, who have built steadily since 2017, presented a mix of retained core players and fresh blood designed to strengthen every department.

Goalkeepers Derrick Sadeni and Alfred Mungu Acel lead the line between the posts, while a solid defensive unit featuring Abdul Aziz, Denis Abiwekango, Innocent Oyeny, Jerry Kumakech and others provides the backbone.

In midfield, Bosco Ajaruva, Brian Okethwengu, Saviour Oyergiu and new arrivals such as Ronald Bahati and Felix Oneguromo offer energy and creativity.

Up front, the attack has received a significant boost.

Star forward Benjamin Opakrwoth, widely known as Messi, has crossed from local rivals Paidha Black Angels SC to bolster Paidha United’s striking options.

He joins fellow frontmen including Ramadan Nenungo (Rama), Francis Oyirwoth, Franco Ronny and David Uwechi, giving the side greater lethal and firepower for the campaign ahead.

With key reinforcements secured and a spirit of local collaboration in place, Paidha United head into the 2026/27 season aiming for progressive performances as The Comrades look to make their mark in the regional league.

CEO and PRO Levious Ofoymungu confirmed that 25 players have been registered in the system, with 25 set to be selected for licences.

He praised the club’s management for the milestone and singled out the strong cooperation with Paidha Black Angels SC.

“We commend the management of Paidha Black Angels for their support and for offering a platform for the exchange of players, including star Benjamin Opakrwoth aka Messi,” Ofoymungu said, underlining the constructive relationship between the two Paidha-based sides in the build-up to the new season.

Several other new faces have also arrived, including John Bright Pirwoth, Charles Odongo, Francis Japyem, Stephen Thomwa and Richard Rimorach, while a number of players have moved on to other clubs.

Meanwhile new signing and Captain Ramadhan Nenungo assured that “we have a committed team and management, I see us in the big league come next season”

Club chairperson Robert Orombi thanked supporters for turning out for the unveiling and called for continued backing throughout the campaign.

Looking ahead to the opening fixtures at the intimidating Bar Okoro Stadium, he urged the squad to stay resilient.“We need to be strong-hearted and know Bar Okoro Stadium is not easy. The noise can also scare, but we need to prepare,” Orombi said.

Recently, Paidha United SC reappointed club legend Abraham Nega Ogusi as their new head coach for the 2026/2027 season. The West Nile Regional League side brought back the CAF C-licensed tactician for a third stint to help steer the club toward promotion to the FUFA Big League. He will be assisted by Dickson Oyirwoth