Uganda Premier League 2024/25: Full Team Preview and Predictions
Time has moved fast, and here we are; it is that time of the season, the Uganda Premier League (UPL) 2024/25. With all the drama, the coaching changes, and the player movements, a lot is expected this year. From the defending champions SC Villa to the regular challengers Vipers SC, the scenario in Ugandan football keeps on changing. Here’s a rather detailed breakdown of all 16 teams, and their key players and aims for the season.
SC Villa: Defending Champions Looking for More
The Jogoos surprised everyone last season by clinching their first title in over 20 years. However, they head into this campaign under new management, with Morley Byekwaso replacing Dusan Stojanovic, and several key players departing. This sets up a tough challenge for Villa as they seek to defend their crown.
- Key Player to Watch: Patrick Jonah Kakande
- Season Objective: Defend the Title: A tough ask, given the changes, but Villa will aim for another title and their first Uganda Cup win in over a decade.
BUL FC: Can They Go the Distance?
After a strong first half last season, BUL fell short of the title. This season, Abbey Kikomeko has bolstered his squad with new signings like Isaac Wagoina and Ramsey Kawooya, giving them hope to challenge for the Uganda Premier League 2024/25 title.
- Key Player to Watch: Jerome Kiirya.
- Season Objective: Challenge for the Title: Building on their performance in the Super 8, BUL aim to be genuine contenders this season.
Vipers SC: New Coach, New Perspective
Vipers Sports Club succumbed to humiliation, losing the championship on the last and decisive day, and in need of rejuvenation recruited Serbian Nikola Kavazovic. The Venoms have a youth team with exciting talent but also experienced professionals such as Yunus Sentamu and Nicholas Wadada on hand.
- Key Player to Watch: Allan Okello
- Season Objective: Reclaim the Title: After going trophyless last season, Vipers are determined to return to the top of the Uganda Premier League 2024/25 and qualify for continental football.
Kitara: Ready to Challenge Again
Kitara is ready to make another title push, having reinforced their squad significantly. The lethal duo of Denis Omedi and Jude Ssemugabi will lead the charge, with a strong defense marshaled by Ronald Otti and Benjamin Nyakoojo.
- Key Player to Watch: Denis Omedi
- Season Objective: Compete for Trophies: After winning the Stanbic Uganda Cup, Kitara is hungry for more trophies, such as the Uganda Premier League 2024/25.
KCCA FC: Is Mubiru Worthy Enough To Win It All?
During the previous season, KCCA suffered a bad start to the competition but managed to turnaround after the management hired Abdallah Mubiru. However, the loss of top scorer Muhammad Shaban is a significant blow. Derrick Nsibambi, an experienced forward, will need to step up.
- Key Player to Watch: Ashraf Mugume
- Season Objective: End the Trophy Drought: The Kasasiro Boys are perennial contenders, and this season is no different.
NEC FC: Second Season Syndrome?
Following an impressive first season, NEC has enhanced their squad with seasoned players such as Paul Mucureezi and Muzamir Mutyaba. Will they really avoid the feared second-year syndrome?
- Key Player to Watch: Allan Mugalu
- Season Objective: Push for a Top-Four Finish: NEC will look to build on last season and aim for the top positions in the Uganda Premier League 2024/25.
Maroons FC: Time for a Rebuild
Maroons FC ended the previous season on a low note, achieving three points in their last five league matches. However, with numerous new faces and mixing young and older players, they will be up for the challenge.
- Key Player to Watch: Ronald Orombi
- Season Objective: Top Eight Finish: Aiming for a top-eight spot would be a realistic goal for Maroons this season.
URA SC: Aiming for Glory Under Isabirye
URA SC has gone through several coaching changes in recent seasons, but there’s optimism that new boss Alex Isabirye can deliver. The taxmen have retained most of their key players and added reinforcements.
- Key Player to Watch: Isma Mugulusi
- Season Objective: Compete for the Title: URA SC is determined to win their first league title in years.
Soltilo Bright Stars: Striving for Improvement
Bright Stars had a mixed campaign last season, finishing just outside the top eight. Nelson Ssenkatuka’s form will be key if they are to push for higher honors.
- Key Player to Watch: Nelson Ssenkatuka
- Season Objective: Top Eight Finish: Securing a place in the top eight is the bare minimum for Bright Stars in the Uganda Premier League 2024/25.
