Uganda Premier League second half kicks off with exciting clashes

Photo Creit: Ronald Lusulire

The Uganda Premier League (UPL) is set to resume with a bang as the second half of the 2024/25 season kicks off Tuesday. The mid-season break has only intensified the excitement and fans can expect a thrilling race for the title, survival battles, and standout individual performances as teams return to action.

The highly anticipated restart features two must-watch fixtures. Wakiso Giants will host SC Villa at Kabaka Kyabbagu Stadium at 4 PM, setting the stage for an exciting evening showdown at St. Mary’s Stadium where Vipers SC will take on URA FC under the floodlights at 7 PM.

As the second leg unfolds, competition heats up with several key encounters lined up. One of the most anticipated clashes will see NEC FC face KCCA FC at MTN Omondi Stadium, a fixture that has drawn significant attention as both sides aim to strengthen their title credentials.

Mid-season transfers and team strengthening

The January transfer window has been a hive of activity with teams reinforcing their squads for the crucial second round. Some clubs have added fresh talent while others have seen key departures, setting the stage for a dramatic end to the season. Lugazi FC, sitting 13th with 14 points, has made notable signings in a bid to escape the relegation fight. Mbale Heroes, currently bottom with just 9 points, have gone all out with eleven new signings to revive their survival hopes.

Wakiso Giants, who struggled for goals in the first round and sit 14th with 12 points, have brought in three attacking reinforcements—Fazil Tumwine, Godfrey Omoki, and Moses Oloya. Coach Steven Bengo and Tonny Mawejja will be tasked with improving their team’s attacking threat in the second half of the season.

More than just the league

Beyond the league action, teams will also have to balance their commitments in other competitions. The Uganda Stanbic Cup and the FUFA Drum tournament will run alongside the league, adding another layer of excitement and a test of squad depth. Managing fixtures across multiple tournaments will be crucial for clubs hoping to challenge on all fronts.

Golden Boot race

The battle for the top scorer award is heating up. Allan Okello leads the race with 11 goals, but URA FC’s Ivan Ahimbisibwe is close behind with 9. With the second round underway, both will be eager to outscore each other and claim the coveted Golden Boot.

As the Uganda Premier League enters its decisive phase, the pressure is on clubs to hit the ground running. Can the new signings make an instant impact? Will the title race take a new twist? The answers will begin unfolding as the battle resumes.

Matchday 16 Fixtures

Tuesday, February 11

Wakiso Giants vs SC Villa – 4 PM

Vipers SC vs URA FC – 7 PM

Wednesday, February 12

Lugazi FC vs Police FC

Maroons FC vs Soltilo Bright Stars

Express FC vs BUL FC – 7 PM

Thursday, February 13

Mbale Heroes vs Mbarara City

UPDF FC vs Kitara FC

NEC FC vs KCCA FC – 7 PM