UPL: Vipers edge UPDF to stay top, KCCA thrash Express and URA grind past Lugazi

League leaders Vipers SC continued their strong push for the Uganda Premier League title with a hard-earned 2–1 victory over UPDF FC at the Bombo Military Barracks Stadium on Wednesday, 11th March 2026.

The Venoms secured their 14th win in 20 matches thanks to goals from Arafat Usama Kiza and Abdul Karim Watambala, a result that stretches their lead at the top of the table to four points ahead of second-placed Kitara FC.

Abdulkarim Watambala restores Vipers’ lead!#StarTimesUPL | #UPDVIP pic.twitter.com/pH1Rdd6HmR

— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) March 11, 2026

Vipers made a lively start to the contest and nearly struck within the opening minutes. A dangerous cross from winger Chukwuma caused panic in the UPDF defense, but defender Da Silva reacted quickly to head the ball clear before it could cause damage.

The hosts gradually settled into the match and began to threaten on the break. Promising midfielder Enrique Lubwama produced a dazzling run that saw him glide past left-back Enock Luyima, but his final delivery into the box lacked precision and failed to find a teammate.

UPDF continued to search for openings, and in the 13th minute Emmanuel Ochen attempted to craft an opportunity with a cross into the area, though the ball sailed beyond the intended target.

The army side’s persistence eventually paid off late in the encounter when Lubwama struck the equaliser with ten minutes remaining, briefly reviving hopes of a comeback. However, Vipers held firm to ensure maximum points from the difficult away fixture.

The defeat leaves UPDF deep in relegation trouble with just 13 points and a daunting task ahead to preserve their top-flight status after suffering their 13th loss of the campaign.

Elsewhere, KCCA FC produced a commanding display to dismantle rivals Express FC 3–0 under the floodlights at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

⚽️ Saidi Mayanja#StarTimesUPL | #KCCEXP pic.twitter.com/z1BjosguDH

— FUFA Tv (@fufatv1) March 11, 2026

The hosts opened the scoring in the 13th minute when Sammy Ssebaduka rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Herbert Achai. The momentum remained with KCCA, and Ivan Ahimbisibwe doubled the advantage before halftime after capitalising on a defensive lapse from Express.

After the restart, Said Mayanja put the result beyond doubt in the 61st minute, nodding in from Shafik Nana’s delivery to seal Kasasiro’s fourth consecutive victory. Ssebaduka’s influential display earned him the Man of the Match accolade.

At the Hamz Stadium, URA FC secured a narrow but important 1–0 win against Lugazi FC to keep their momentum in the league.

The decisive moment arrived in the 63rd minute when Isma Mugulusi found the breakthrough, finishing calmly to hand the Tax Collectors all three points in a tightly contested encounter.

Both sides made numerous tactical substitutions as the match wore on, but URA maintained their slender lead until the final whistle. Midfielder Moses Aliro delivered an impressive all-round performance and was deservedly named Man of the Match.