By Andrew Gum
The 2024/25 Startimes Uganda Premier League season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
With only five points separating the top three teams after 13 matches, the battle for supremacy is fierce, and upcoming fixtures hold the potential to reshape the standings drastically.
Vipers SC sit at the top of the table with 31 points, boasting nine wins, four draws, and just one defeat. Their dominance is evident in their goal difference of 15, with 24 goals scored and only nine conceded.
However, their position faces a challenge in the upcoming clash with Maroons FC, following a narrow 1-0 victory over UPDF, secured by Allan Okello’s goal. This fixture is a must-win for Vipers to hold off the pressure from NEC FC, who are closing in fast. Star striker Allan Okello, leading the league with 11 goals, will need to shine once more, while Milton Karisa, with seven goals, remains a vital attacking threat.
NEC FC, trailing Vipers by just four points, are set to face Mbarara City FC. With Mbarara City languishing near the bottom of the table, NEC FC have a prime opportunity to claim all three points. A victory in this match would reduce the gap to just one point, tightening the race at the top
KCCA, currently in third place with 24 points, will aim to narrow the gap at the top as they take on Mbarara City following a goalless draw against Police FC. This match is pivotal in keeping their title aspirations alive. Despite the absence of a standout goal scorer, KCCA’s well-rounded team effort could prove crucial in securing a favourable result.
Upcoming
Mid-table teams like URA FC, Express FC, and Maroons FC have vital matches coming up. URA FC, currently fourth with 21 points, will clash with SC Villa. This fixture is pivotal, as SC Villa’s high-scoring attack will test URA’s defense. Ivan Ahimbisibwe, URA’s leading scorer with nine goals, must step up to guide his team to victory and keep them in the hunt for a top-three finish.
Express and Maroons have both faced defensive struggles, conceding 20 and 18 goals respectively, a weakness they must improve to stay competitive. Despite this, Express recently secured a 2-1 victory over Soltilo Bright Stars, with Conrad Ssenjogera scoring both goals, though their defence was still tested by conceding once. Similarly, Maroons earned a narrow 1-0 win over Mbale Heroes, thanks to a goal from Ivan Mayanja.
Struggles
SC Villa and Kitara FC both tied on 17 points, have shown flashes of brilliance but lack consistency. SC Villa’s attack, which boasts 25 goals, the highest in the league, contrasts starkly with their defensive frailties, having conceded 16 goals. Similarly, Kitara FC, also on 17 points, has showcased an exhilarating attack with a league-leading 27 goals but suffers from a porous defence.
With every match carrying weight, the upcoming fixtures will be a litmus test for title contenders and mid-table aspirants alike. The league’s top scorers, such as Allan Okello, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, and Jude Ssemugabi, are expected to play pivotal roles in deciding these outcomes. Fans can expect nothing less than high drama and intense competition as the season progresses.
