Game Week Six of the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League (UPL) brought unforgettable moments, particularly from newly promoted Lugazi, who made headlines with their historic victory.
Lugazi Secure First-Ever Win
Lugazi clinched their first-ever UPL win by defeating Express 1-0 at Nakivubo Stadium. Sam Ssemugugu was the hero of the day, scoring the decisive goal and etching his name in the club’s history.
This victory marked a significant turning point for Lugazi, who had struggled early in the season, leading to the sacking of head coach Sadiq Ssempigi.
Interim head coach Oliver Mbekeka made history as the first female head coach to win a UPL game, achieving this milestone in her debut match but Lugazi has since named Steven Bogere as Ssempigi’s permanent replacement for head coach.
The win not only brought joy to the Lugazi faithful but also resulted in the departure of Express head coach Baker Mbowa, who left the club following the disappointing performance with Badru Kaddu taking over as interim head coach.
Title Race Intensifies with Frequent Changes at the Top
The competition for the UPL title is heating up, with the top spot changing hands multiple times over the weekend.
Vipers initially took the lead after a 2-1 victory against Police at Kitende on Friday, only for KCCA to temporarily ascend to the top with a narrow 1-0 win over Mbale Heroes in Mbale on Saturday afternoon.
However, NEC reclaimed the top position later on Saturday by defeating Wakiso Giants 2-0 at Lugogo.
By the end of Game Week Six, NEC led the standings with 15 points, closely followed by KCCA with 14 points and Vipers in third place with 13 points.
Other Highlights from Game Week Six
BUL registered their second consecutive win, defeating Kitara FC 3-1, marking Kitara’s third straight home loss.
Mbarara City’s Seiri Arigumaho continued his scoring spree, netting his fifth goal of the season from a free kick in a 1-0 victory over Bright Stars.
KCCA’s Bright Anukani scored his first goal in his second stint with the club, while Vipers’ Derrick Ndahiro made a successful league debut.
Allan Okello of Vipers was a standout performer, scoring a brace and significantly contributing to his team’s attacking prowess with three goals in two games now.
KCCA’s defensive duo of Mustafa Mujuzi and goalkeeper Mutwalib Mugoolofa have been exceptional, maintaining five clean sheets in six matches and conceding just one goal in a 1-1 draw away to BUL.
With thrilling performances and significant developments in the title race, the UPL continues to capture the attention of fans as the season unfolds.
The anticipation for the next round of matches is palpable, with teams vying for crucial points in what is becoming a highly competitive league.
