Buffaloes powered their way into the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership final with a commanding 28-12 win over Makerere Impis at Kyadondo, sealing a dominant 48-23 aggregate victory and extending their stronghold on a season defined by discipline and clinical finishing.
Coming into the return leg with a 20-11 first-leg advantage, Buffaloes knew the job was only half done. They started with intent, and Yassin Waswa set the tone early, crossing for the opening try before adding the conversion for a 7-0 lead.
Impis, unfazed by the pressure, responded through scrum-half Robert Ssentongo, who finished off a powerful passage of mauls and pick-and-go play. Darren Aine added the conversion to level the contest.
But Buffaloes quickly regained control. Hector Twinomugisha crashed over for their second try, and Waswa was again accurate from the tee to restore the cushion.
After the break, Impis briefly reignited hopes when they cut the deficit with an unconverted try, closing the gap to just two points and hinting at another famous comeback. Their quarterfinal heroics against Kobs were still fresh, and belief flickered again.
That hope did not last long. Buffaloes responded with authority. Meddie Abdullah went over for a crucial third try, and Waswa converted to stretch the lead. From there, the home side never looked back.
Daniel Otim sealed the result with a well-taken fourth try, and the final conversion completed a comfortable 28-12 win on the day.
The victory was built on more than just attacking power. Buffaloes had laid the foundation in the first leg at Makerere, where they recovered from a halftime deficit to win 20-11, with Waswa starring through a mix of kicks, control, and a try of his own.
At Kyadondo, they showed maturity, managing the tempo, defending strongly, and shutting down Impis whenever momentum threatened to shift. Scrum-half Hussein Shein helped steady the game, while Otim’s pace repeatedly stretched the visitors.
Impis exit the competition with pride after a breakthrough season. Promoted only months ago, they reached their first semifinal and shocked defending giants Kobs with a memorable quarterfinal comeback.
Despite their elimination, they leave with milestones, most notably captain Darren Aine’s record 131-point season and strong leadership from Pius Mpoza, alongside key contributions from Edgar Akimanzi, Ivan Kirabo, and Lamote Maggali.
Action will continue on Saturday June 13, when Heathens RFC host Black Pirates in their first-leg Semi-final at 4 pm on the same grounds.
