By John Baptist Opua
The Northern Regional League playoff final will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Apac Boma Ground, where Young Elephant Academy FC will face Northern Gateway SC in a decisive battle for advancement to the FUFA Big League.
The announcement was made by Eron Lalah, Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Regional Football Association, confirming that the match will feature the top teams from each group, as per tradition.
Northern Gateway SC returns to the playoff final for a second straight season after topping the Rhino Group with 39 points from 17 games.
Last year, the Galadiators were knocked out by Paidha Black Angels in the semifinal, losing 2-0 on aggregate. Under the leadership of head coach Anthony Odongo and assistant Isaac Ojok, the team is aiming to go one better this time and secure promotion after finishing ahead of Lira City Council FC.
Meanwhile, Young Elephant Academy FC had a dominant campaign in the Elephant Group, amassing 55 points in 22 matches.
This marks the club’s debut appearance at this stage, and the team is optimistic about making history with a maiden promotion to the FUFA Big League.
The winner of Sunday’s final will face Nebbi Central FC, champions of the West Nile Regional League, in the inter-regional promotion playoff.
Nebbi Central earned their spot after edging Odramachaku FC 3-0 in a penalty shootout.
