The StarTimes Uganda Premier League has temporarily taken a back seat as attention shifts to the Stanbic Uganda Cup, following the conclusion of an enthralling first round of the season.
At the halfway stage, the championship picture is finely balanced. Defending champions Vipers SC sit comfortably at the summit with a six-point cushion, but the chasing pack is tightly bunched.
KCCA FC, SC Villa and surprise contenders Entebbe UPPC remain firmly in the title conversation, with just two points separating second from sixth place. A single winning run could dramatically reshuffle the standings.
The battle at the opposite end of the table is just as intense. Seventh-placed sides are separated by a mere seven points, with only Calvary FC cut adrift at the foot of the standings on four points.
With the first chapter of the campaign now written, analyst Bbosa Ibrahim has selected a combined Best XI drawn from performances across all 16 league teams—rewarding consistency, influence and impact.
Goalkeeper
Alfred Mudekereza (Vipers SC)
A custodian cut from a different cloth. Mudekereza has cemented his place between the sticks at Kitende, displacing Denis Kigundu with authority. In 14 league outings, he has conceded just seven goals, underlining his sharp reflexes, vocal leadership and command of his backline. A standout presence and a natural choice for the number one jersey.
Defence
Right Back – David Owori Colgate (SC Villa)
A former attacker reinvented as a fullback, Owori has thrived in his new role. His offensive instincts remain intact, making him a constant outlet down the flank while also contributing decisively from set pieces. Add his leadership qualities, and it is easy to see why he stands out as the league’s premier right-back.
Left Back – Herbert Achai (KCCA FC)
Reliable defensively and fearless going forward, Achai has been a mainstay in Brian Ssenyondo’s setup. The KCCA FC junior team graduate has chipped in with three assists and continues to offer balance on the left side through his work rate and positional discipline.
Centre Back – Kevin Bady Dasylva (Vipers SC)
The Congolese defender wasted no time winning over the Kitende faithful. Calm, intelligent and assertive, Dasylva has muscled his way ahead of Rogers Torach and added an aerial threat during dead-ball situations. A cornerstone of Vipers’ defensive solidity.
Centre Back – Barasa Mangoli (SC Villa)
Graceful yet authoritative, Mangoli has been one of the season’s most composed defenders. Comfortable under pressure and confident in possession, the MUBS student has been instrumental in Villa’s ability to build from the back, exuding assurance whenever he steps onto the pitch.
Midfield
Central Midfield – Isa Bugembe (Entebbe UPPC)
Once known for his attacking tendencies, Bugembe has flourished in a deeper anchoring role under Abdallah Mubiru. He is the heartbeat of Entebbe UPPC—dictating tempo, recycling possession and launching attacks with precision. His consistent excellence has earned him multiple Man of the Match awards.
Central Midfield – Karim Watambala (Vipers SC)
Power, energy and end product rolled into one. Watambala has been relentless in midfield, combining tireless work with an eye for goal. His seven strikes—one shy of the league’s top scorer—include a thunderbolt against Police FC that remains a strong goal-of-the-season contender.
Attacking Midfield – Denis Kalanzi (Police FC)
The league’s leading assist provider with five, Kalanzi has been the creative engine for Police FC. His vision, close control and ability to unlock defences have been central to keeping the Cops within touching distance of the title contenders.
Attack
Right Wing – Usama Arafat (Vipers SC)
Arafat has adapted seamlessly to life at Kitende, delivering match-winning moments with remarkable consistency. With nine goal contributions (five goals and four assists), he boasts the best attacking return in the league, blending flair with ruthless efficiency.
Left Wing – Samy Raynald Ssebaduka (KCCA FC)
A product of the KCCA junior system, Ssebaduka has enjoyed a breakout campaign. His pace, bravery and dribbling ability have tormented defenders, while his four goals underline his growing end product. A winger playing with confidence and fearlessness.
Centre Forward – Ambrose Kigozi (Entebbe UPPC)
The revelation of the season so far. Kigozi has been clinical in front of goal, netting eight times in his last nine matches. Blessed with a sharp first touch and natural finishing instinct, he has drawn glowing praise from his coach Abdallah Mubiru, who hails him as “one of the best finishers” he has ever worked with.
Manager
Zeljko Kovacevic (SC Villa)
Perhaps an unexpected pick, but a deserved one. Kovacevic has injected identity and intensity into SC Villa, implementing a clear playing philosophy while elevating individual performances. Players such as Ibrahim Kasinde, Najib Yiga, Aslam Ssemakula, Misi Diego Ssemugera and Hassan Mubiru have all thrived under his guidance. Few coaches would keep Villa in a title race with such a squad—and that speaks volumes of his impact.
Honorable Mentions
Kato Ssemayange (SC Villa), Samuel Ssekamatte (UPDF), Hassan Mubiru (SC Villa), Hassan Ssenyonjo (Entebbe UPPC), Aslam Ssemakula (SC Villa), Patrick Kaddu (Kitara FC), Mungudit Freedom (Lugazi FC) and Kizito Ryan “Figo” (Police FC) all delivered commendable first-round performances that narrowly missed out on a place in the final XI.
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