A thrilling clash is on the cards as St Lawrence University take on Uganda Martyrs University in the finals of the 2024/25 Pepsi University Football League at the Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku.
The match, set for Sunday at 3PM, sees both sides eyeing ultimate glory in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.
St Lawrence head into the final with high hopes of ending a decade-long wait for their maiden University League title.
The Rubaga-based institution has been one of the most consistent teams in recent seasons and will be making their third appearance in the final in the last four editions.
However, they have yet to taste ultimate success, something they are determined to change this time around.
Standing in their way are the two-time champions Uganda Martyrs University from Nkozi, a side known for their discipline, tactical organisation, and experience on the big stage.
The Martyrs last won the title in 2022 and will be eager to reassert their dominance by clinching a third crown.
Both teams have had solid campaigns en route to the final. St Lawrence edged Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) 2-1 on aggregate in the semifinals, while Uganda Martyrs dispatched Bugema University 2-0 over two legs.
The final now sets up a rematch between two familiar foes with a history of tight encounters.
Their head-to-head record reveals how closely matched the teams are. In 2019, both legs ended in 1-1 and 2-2 draws, while Uganda Martyrs claimed a narrow 1-0 victory in 2022.
These results underline just how evenly balanced this rivalry has been, adding even more intrigue to today’s final.
St Lawrence head coach Davis Nnono has exuded quiet confidence ahead of the clash, saying his team is focused and well-prepared.
“We are focused as ever. We’ve had enough days to train and prepare, making sure that we are ready,” he said.
“Our target has remained the same since the first day—we want to win the trophy, and we shall keep fighting to see that we achieve that.”
Nnono emphasized that the team’s presence in the final is a reflection of consistent hard work and ambition.
“We have always said that this is the space we want to find ourselves in, competing against the best. For us to be here means we’ve been doing something right. But winning requires a lot, and we shall keep trying to do the right things till the final whistle.”
On the other side, Uganda Martyrs coach Eric Kisuze is equally optimistic about his team’s chances.
“I am confident by the special grace of God that we will make it,” Kisuze declared. “We started preparation very early, and the boys are in good condition. I believe we are bringing the title back to Nkozi.”
Kisuze emphasized the determination and quality in his squad, noting that everyone is ready to fight for the title. “Everyone will be fighting. Hopefully, our quality will bring us through.”
