Calvary, Gaddafi and Buhimba Saints seal Uganda Premier League promotion in dramatic Big League Finale

The curtains have officially closed on the 2024/25 FUFA Big League season, culminating in a dramatic and emotional final day that saw Calvary FC, Gaddafi FC, and Buhimba United Saints earn promotion to the Uganda Premier League.

Yumbe-based Calvary FC emerged champions with 52 points after a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over Paidha Black Angels in front of a jubilant home crowd.

The victory capped off a season of consistency and determination for the Northern Uganda side, who will now feature in the top flight for the very first time.

Joining them are Gaddafi FC, who sealed second place with 50 points after a commanding 3-0 away win over Kataka FC in Mbale. Goals from Jonathan Mbula, Thomas Kakaire and veteran striker Frank Kalanda ensured the Publishers bounced back to the top tier just a season after relegation.

The final promotion slot was secured by Buhimba United Saints, who played out a tense 0-0 draw with Kiyinda Boys in Kiwenda. Though the result wasn’t glamorous, the single point proved decisive, lifting the Hoima-based outfit to third place — also on 50 points and edging out Blacks Power by the slimmest of margins: one point.

There was heartbreak for Blacks Power despite their 2-0 win over Busoga United in Lira, with Innocent Maduka netting a brace. They finished fourth with 49 points, narrowly missing out on promotion after a strong finish to the campaign.

Paidha Black Angels, who began the day with hopes of promotion, fell short following their loss to champions Calvary, ending a tense run-in in disappointment.

This year’s Big League season will be remembered as one of the most fiercely contested in recent times, with five teams vying for promotion heading into the final match day.

While it’s a historic moment for both Calvary and Buhimba United Saints who are set to make their Uganda Premier League debuts, it’s also a redemption story for Gaddafi, who are back among the elite after a brief stint in the second tier.

Meanwhile, the relegation battle ended in despair for MYDA FC, Busoga United, Arua Hill SC, and Booma FC, all of whom drop to the regional leagues after underwhelming campaigns.

The stage is now set for a fresh chapter in the Uganda Premier League, with three ambitious sides ready to test themselves at the highest level.