Mandela National Stadium reopens with exciting UPL doubleheader

StarTimes Uganda Premier League 
Vipers 0-1 BUL FC 
KCCA 2-0 SC Villa 

Kampala, (UG):- Tens of thousands of fervent football fans Thursday descended upon Mandela National Stadium, affectionately known as Namboole to witness the eagerly anticipated reopening of the iconic venue after a prolonged closure for extensive renovations since 2019.

The day’s festivities kicked off with a thrilling Uganda Premier League (UPL) doubleheader, featuring BUL FC versus Sports Club Vipers, followed by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC against Sports Club Villa.

In the first match of the doubleheader, BUL FC clinched a hard-fought victory against Sports Club Vipers with Jeromy Kirya’s decisive goal proving to be the sole difference-maker. 

Kirya’s strike not only secured the win for BUL FC but also etched his name in history as the scorer of the first goal at the refurbished Namboole stadium, igniting jubilant celebrations among the home faithful. 

With this crucial win, BUL FC surged to the top of the UPL standings with 49 points, edging past Kitara by a narrow margin.

However, for SC Vipers, the defeat dealt a blow to their title aspirations as they slipped to third place in the standings with 46 points, albeit with a game in hand, following their disappointing performance against BUL FC.

In the second match of the doubleheader, KCCA FC squared off against Sports Club Villa in a fiercely contested encounter. 

It was Usama Arafat who stole the spotlight with a spectacular brace, propelling KCCA FC to a commanding 2-0 victory over their opponents.

Arafat’s clinical finishing, with goals in the 83rd and 88th minutes respectively, dashed SC Villa’s hopes of a comeback, sealing a resounding win for KCCA FC in front of their passionate supporters.

Amidst the pulsating action on the pitch, Mandela National Stadium showcased its newly renovated facilities, including meticulously prepared seats and beautifully manicured sprinklers.