- University Football League | SF – 2nd Leg
- Bugema 0-0 Uganda Martyrs (Agg 0-2)
History is repeating itself in the 2025 University Football League (UFL) as Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) is set to face off once again with St. Lawrence University (SLAU) a rematch of the memorable 2022 final where UMU clinched their second title with a narrow 1-0 victory, courtesy of a Sunny Kaija goal.
UMU booked their place in the final after a gritty goalless draw against Bugema University on the road. With a 2-0 aggregate lead from the first leg in Mpigi, the Saints needed only to avoid defeat and they did just that with composure, tactical discipline and sheer resilience.
From the first whistle, Uganda Martyrs looked to protect their unbeaten run in the 2024/25 UFL season. Early threats came from Bugema, particularly through a dangerous break by Opio Azizi, only for Kayondo to recover just in time to deny Ssentongo a chance.
Bugema’s Ssentongo Suleiman continued to be a thorn in UMU’s defence, testing their backline with runs and chances throughout the first half.
However, despite their energy, Bugema couldn’t convert pressure into goals. UMU’s Patrick Mutebi and goalkeeper Okoboi Sadam stood tall, closing down threats and calmly defusing moments of panic.
As the second half began, Bugema intensified its attacks, hoping to reduce the aggregate deficit.
Male Joseph found space to shoot but again, Okoboi was equal to the task. Kayondo Joseph’s powerful free kick around the hour mark nearly extended UMU’s aggregate lead but Kalungi in Bugema’s goal kept hopes alive.
But time wasn’t on Bugema’s side. Even as a sudden downpour soaked the pitch and the fans held their ground in the 70th minute, UMU’s defence remained impenetrable.
With five minutes to play, Bugema had a golden chance through Kimuli Dennis but his shot lacked conviction. UMU, with backs to the wall, paraded their bodies on the line and successfully defended their two-goal cushion.
With St. Lawrence University eliminating IUIU in Kavule, the 2025 UFL final now promises fireworks, a repeat of the classic 2022 title clash.
Back then, UMU edged out SLAU to secure their second championship. Now, the two footballing titans will square off once more with bragging rights, redemption and legacy all on the line.
Meanwhile, Bugema University will take on Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) in the third-place playoff.
University Football League Champions (2012–2023)
- 2012: Makerere University
- 2013: Kampala University
- 2014: MUBS
- 2015: MUBS
- 2016: Kampala University
- 2017: Uganda Martyrs University
- 2018: Kyambogo University
- 2019: Uganda Christian University
- 2020: Season Cancelled
- 2022: Uganda Martyrs University
- 2023: Nkumba University
