The University Football League’s history now includes St. Lawrence University as the first to suffer three final defeats in a four-season span (2019, 2022, 2025). In contrast, Uganda Martyrs University has become the most successful team in the league with three victories (2017, 2022, 2025), leaving Kampala University and MUBS behind with two titles apiece.
The roar of the crowd at the final whistle still echoed in the ears of Okoboi Sadam, Uganda Martyrs University’s dependable number 23. Another year, another University Football League trophy raised high above their jubilant team. For UMU, 2025 marked their third triumph, a record that etched their name deepest into the league’s history books, surpassing the two victories each of Kampala University and MUBS. The memories of their previous wins in 2017 and 2022 flooded back, each victory a testament to their consistent dedication and talent.
Across the field, however, a starkly different scene unfolded. The dejected figures of St. Lawrence University players slowly made their way off the pitch. For captain Ziraba Ronnie and his squad, the 2025 final was a bitter repeat of heartbreaks past. This loss marked their third final defeat in just four seasons – 2019, 2022, and now this. An unwanted record, a shadow that seemed to cling to their otherwise commendable campaigns. Goalkeeper Mubiru Patrick, who had hoped to finally lift the coveted trophy, could only stare blankly ahead.
The starting lineups painted the picture of two determined sides. UMU, with the likes of the agile Obedgiu Ronald leading the attack and the composed Mutebi Patrick marshalling the defense, had once again found the winning formula. Their journey, marked by strategic plays from Agamile Ivan in midfield and the relentless energy of Aguma Wesley on the wing, culminated in this historic victory.
St. Lawrence, boasting the skill of Matege Innocent and the defensive prowess of Agaku Vincent, had fought valiantly. Their journey to the final, fueled by the goals of Kembo Osuman Arafat and the creative sparks of Ssekyanzi Patrick, ultimately ended in disappointment once more.
As the UMU players celebrated their record-breaking achievement, the weight of history pressed down on St. Lawrence. The league’s winners’ list, stretching back to Makerere University’s victory in 2012 and showcasing the intermittent successes of various institutions, now starkly highlighted their repeated near misses. While UMU etched their name in gold for the third time, St. Lawrence found themselves etched in the record books for a different, more painful reason. The beautiful game, in its unpredictable nature, had once again delivered contrasting fates on the same patch of green.
Photo: Kamira Asha
