The 2025 University Football League (UFL) semifinal draw has delivered a spectacle in the making, with St. Lawrence University (SLAU) set to battle the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) in a thrilling two-legged contest. The draw, held on Friday morning at Kati Kati, has set the stage for an intense clash as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the final. With history beckoning, SLAU seeks to break their semifinal curse, while IUIU aims to capitalize on their resurgence after a six-year absence from this stage.
SLAU, a perennial semifinalist, has reached this phase four times but remains in pursuit of its maiden UFL title. The stakes are equally high for IUIU, who last graced the semifinals in 2018 and now stand on the brink of making history. The first leg will be hosted in Mbale on Thursday, April 3rd, before the decisive return leg at SLAU’s fortress in Kavule on April 10th. With both teams boasting tactical prowess and hunger for success, the encounter promises to be a fierce and unrelenting battle.
Speaking ahead of the showdown, SLAU’s head coach, Davis Nnono, acknowledged the gravity of the challenge, describing the tie as “tricky.” He remained steadfast in his belief that his team has the mettle to prevail. “IUIU is a formidable opponent, and Mbale is never an easy place to visit, but we are prepared to play our way and fight for our place in the final,” Nnono stated. Despite his wealth of experience at this stage, he noted that his squad is relatively new to high-stakes encounters, adding an intriguing layer of unpredictability to the clash.
Meanwhile, the other semifinal will see Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), Nkozi, take on the winner of the unresolved quarterfinal between Bugema University and Muteesa I Royal University. Their second-leg encounter was halted under unforeseen circumstances, with a final verdict expected in the coming days. As anticipation builds, the UFL’s legacy continues to grow, with past champions including Makerere University, Kampala University, MUBS, Kyambogo University, Uganda Christian University, and Nkumba University, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the competition.
With the semifinals poised to deliver football of the highest caliber, all eyes will be on SLAU and IUIU as they chase their dreams of UFL glory. Will SLAU’s experience finally propel them to their first title, or will IUIU’s relentless determination see them etch their name in history? The next two weeks will decide their fate in what promises to be an unforgettable chapter in university football.
