| Date | R | Home v Away | - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 05/24 12:00 | 30 |
URA v Wakiso United
|
View |
| 05/24 12:00 | 30 |
Bright Stars v Mbale Heroes
|
View |
| 05/24 12:00 | 30 |
BUL FC v Maroons
|
View |
| 05/24 12:00 | 30 |
Kitara FC v Vipers SC
|
View |
Teams
Vipers SC
KCCA
Express FC
SC Villa
BUL FC
URA
Bright Stars
Busoga United FC
Mbarara City
UPDF FC
Uganda Police FC
Onduparaka FC
Maroons
Wakiso United
Tooro United
Kitara FC
Gaddafi FC
Proline FC
Arua Hill SC
NEC FC Bugolobi
Kyetume FC
Mbale Heroes
Paidha Black Angels
Lugazi FC
Nyamityobora FC
Ndejje University
Masavu FC
Blacks Power
MYDA FC
Sadolin Paints
Lweza FC
JMC
Kaaro Karungi FC
Kiyinda Boys FC
Buhimba United Saints FC
Wikipedia - Uganda Premier League
The Ugandan Premier League, also known as the StarTimes Uganda Premier League for sponsorship reasons, is the top division of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations. The league was previously known as the Uganda Super League but changed in the 2014–15 season after new management taking over. The league's roots date back to 1968 when the National First Division League was established.
History
Original concept
The genesis of club football in Uganda was an idea copied from England by Balamaze Lwanga and Polycarp Kakooza. The objective was to improve Uganda's performances in the Africa Cup of Nations after disappointing results in the finals in 1962 (fourth-place finish) and 1968 (lost all three group stage matches), both held in Ethiopia. The intention was to start a Uganda National League (the forerunner of the Uganda Super League) to create the foundation for a strong national team. At the same time, the identification of players from the grassroots would be made easier and systematic.
Because there were no clubs to form a league, institutions and districts were contacted to form teams. The 1968 inaugural top-flight league was composed of Prisons, Army, Coffee, Express, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, and Mbale. There were three institutions and four districts and one club. The league was known as the National First Division League, and the first league champions were Prisons FC Kampala (now known as Maroons FC).
After four seasons, the political turbulence in Uganda impacted on the league. The 1972 and 1973 championships were not completed because of civil unrest. In 1974, the league became known as the National Football League and this title was used until 1982 when the league was trimmed to ten teams and was renamed the Super League (shortened to Super Ten in that inaugural season).
Super League advent
The emergence of the Super League in 1982 saw the development of SC Villa as the country's leading club. Through the 1980s and a good part of the 1990s, competition between Express, KCC FC and SC Villa lit up the league and fans attended in hoards.
SC Villa won the league for the first time in 1982 and over the next 22 years totalled 16 league titles. KCC FC and Express won the championship title in the intervening years.
Match-fixing
In 2003, football in Uganda hit its lowest ebb as SC Villa put 22 goals past Akol FC when the league title went down to goal difference with Express. This was one of the biggest scandals in Ugandan football and thereafter, there was a complete media shutdown in all matters pertaining to local football. Fans became increasingly disillusioned and deserted the stadia thus affecting the teams financially. The episode represented one of many that has plagued Ugandan football.
The Uganda Premier League (UPL) stands as the pinnacle of professional football in Uganda, showcasing the nation's top talent and fostering a vibrant football culture. Established in 1968, the league has evolved into a highly competitive platform that attracts passionate fans, skilled players, and dedicated clubs from across the country.
**Format and Structure:**
The UPL features a league format where teams compete in a round-robin system, with each club playing home and away matches against every other team. The season typically runs from August to May, culminating in a thrilling climax as teams vie for the coveted championship title. The league not only determines the national champion but also influences qualification for continental competitions, adding an extra layer of excitement and prestige.
**Clubs and Rivalries:**
The UPL is home to some of Uganda's most storied clubs, including KCCA FC, SC Villa, and URA FC, each boasting a rich history and a loyal fan base. Fierce rivalries, such as the Kampala Derby between KCCA FC and SC Villa, electrify the atmosphere, drawing thousands of supporters to stadiums and creating unforgettable moments on the pitch.
**Development and Impact:**
Beyond the competition, the Uganda Premier League plays a crucial role in the development of football in the country. It serves as a breeding ground for emerging talent, with many players going on to represent the national team, the Cranes, or securing opportunities in international leagues. The UPL also emphasizes community engagement, promoting grassroots initiatives and inspiring the next generation of footballers.
**Fan Experience:**
The league's matches are a spectacle of passion and excitement, with fans donning their team colors and creating an electric atmosphere in stadiums across Uganda. The UPL embraces modern technology, offering live broadcasts and digital engagement to connect with fans both locally and globally.
**Conclusion:**
The Uganda Premier League is more than just a football competition; it is a celebration of Ugandan culture, unity, and the love of the beautiful game. As the league continues to grow and evolve, it remains a vital part of Uganda's sporting landscape, inspiring pride and passion in fans and players alike. Join us in celebrating the spirit of football in Uganda!