Matchday 18 of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League delivered a mix of emotions, drama, and defining moments as the title race and relegation battle took new turns.
Vipers SC showcased their resilience with a 1-0 victory over Mbarara City at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, securing yet another crucial three points while paying tribute to their fallen teammate, Abubakar Lawal, who tragically passed away earlier in the week.
Before kickoff, a minute of silence was observed across all league venues, setting a somber yet unified atmosphere.
At Kitende, Allan Okello kept his nerve from the penalty spot in the 66th minute, converting after Yunus Sentamu was brought down in the box.
The hard-fought victory cements Vipers’ lead at the summit with 43 points, three ahead of their closest challengers, NEC.
Over in Bombo, UPDF avenged their humiliating 5-0 first-round defeat to SC Villa with a convincing 2-0 triumph.
The army side asserted their dominance early, with Daniel Kitara finding the back of the net in the 13th minute.
A composed finish from Brian Kalumba in the 77th minute sealed the win, marking UPDF’s second consecutive victory and lifting them to ninth place with 24 points level with Villa but boasting a superior goal difference.
For Villa, inconsistency continues to haunt their campaign, as they failed to build on their recent victory over Express. With the league entering a critical phase, the Blues must find stability to avoid further setbacks.
Luzira played host to a cagey contest between Maroons and KCCA, which ended in a goalless draw.
Despite both teams pushing for a breakthrough, solid defensive displays ensured that neither side found the back of the net.
KCCA’s away struggles persist, with their last road victory dating back to December 15, 2024, against Wakiso Giants.
The Kasasiro Boys now occupy seventh place with 25 points, while Maroons sit in tenth with 24 points, adding more intensity to the ever-tightening mid-table competition.
