The Uganda Premier League 2024/25 returned in September with several teams called in to action and eager to showcase their new signings.
New comer Lugazi FC made their debut, although they suffered their first defeat against Kitara Fc.
In a surprising turn of events, Vipers SC registered a shocking loss to NEC FC, adding to the drama of the leagues opening matches.
Vipers SC fall to NEC FC as Coach Kavazovic faces early challenges
Vipers SC endured a tough start to the 2024/2025 Uganda Premier League season with a 3-1 defeat to NEC FC, at the MTN Philip Omondi Stadium.
This result gave Vipers’ head coach, Nikola Kavazovic, a shaky beginning as he tries to implement his new style of play.
NEC FC took the lead early in the match, with Muzamir Mutyaba scoring the opening goal in the 11th minute. However, Vipers SC managed to equalise in the 25th minute through Livingstone Mulondo, bringing the first half to a 1-1 draw.
In the second half, NEC FC regained control. Formal Vipers player Cromwell Rwothomio scored to put his team back in the lead, and Paul Mucureezi sealed the victory with another goal, resulting in a 3-1 win for NEC FC.
In a media interview after the game, Vipers SC coach Nikola Kavazovic admitted that his team struggled to create enough chances mainly after the 15 minutes of second half. He pointed out that despite leveling the match, the second goal conceded broke down their system.
Kavazovic also criticised the lack of communication among his defenders particularly Patrcik Mbowa and Livinstone Mulondo, leading to poor connection with their goalkeeper. He added that anyone thinking Vipers would easily lift the trophy this season should reconsider whether that is a realistic expectation, given the team’s current performance.
Vipers SC had finished third in the Uganda Premier League last season, while SC Villa took the title after a 20-year drought. Interestingly, just a few months ago, Vipers eliminated NEC FC from the FUFA Super League, only to be beaten by them in this season’s opener.
SC Villa 4- 2 Mbarara City
Defending champions SC Villa began their campaign with an impressive 4-2 home victory over Mbarara City at Mutesa II Wankulukuku Stadium. Patrick Jonah Kakande spearheaded SC Villa’s attack, with additional goals from defender Arnold Odong, Elvis Ngonde, and Hakim Kiwanuka, securing all three points for the team. Mbarara City’s goals came from Seiri Arigumaho and Paul Busolo.
KCCA 1- 0 URA
KCCA kicked off their season on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over visiting URA. Saidi Mayanja scored the lone goal, securing the win for KCCA. This marks a strong start under coach Abdallah Mubiru, boosting the team’s confidence. Meanwhile, URA, also known as the Tax Collectors, will need to work on their finishing to secure points in future matches.
Lugazi FC 0-3 Kitara FC
Kitara FC, the reigning champions of the Uganda Cup, made a triumphant return to the Uganda Premier League with a 3-0 victory over newly promoted Lugazi FC at the Lugazi Stadium Najjembe. Tumwesigye opened the scoring for the Royals, followed by Jude Ssemugabi, who netted a cross from Denis Omedi just before halftime to extend their lead. Ssemugabi struck again in the 64th minute, sealing the win with another assist from Omedi
Police FC 0-0 BUL FC
Newly promoted Police FC managed to secure a goalless draw against last season’s title challengers, BUL FC, despite being down to 10 men. Police’s striker Gerald Ogweti was sent off in the first half, but the team held on for a valuable point in their first match of the season.
Express FC 2-1 Mbale Heroes
In another match, Express FC secured a 2-1 win over Mbale Heroes, joining the race for early-season points. Samuel Ssenyonjo scored both goals for Express, while Ssekajja netted a consolation goal for Mbale Heroe.
By Andrew Gum
