Wakiso, Uganda: Vipers SC clinched their seventh StarTimes Uganda Premier League (UPL) title on Saturday evening following a dramatic 1-1 draw against Soltilo Bright Stars at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, capping off a season marked by tactical revival and individual brilliance.
Allan Okello’s equalizing penalty not only salvaged a point but sealed his place as the league’s top scorer with 19 goals, capping off a stellar campaign that redefined the Venoms’ season after a shaky start.
The title triumph was Vipers’ first under the joint stewardship of John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza, who took over managerial duties from Serbian Nikola Kavazovic midway through a turbulent season.
Under their watch, Vipers regrouped, reorganized, and reasserted dominance, eventually finishing with 69 points, narrowly edging NEC FC by just two.
The day’s biggest spectacle came after the final whistle, when FUFA President Hon. Moses Hassim Magogo unveiled and handed over the newly commissioned league trophy, christened Margherita, after the highest peak of the Rwenzori mountains, to Vipers captain Milton Karisa. Fireworks erupted as fans filled the Kitende sky with chants and cheers in a ceremony officiated by Vipers legend Tonny Odur.
Okello, Watambala Lead Vipers’ Title Charge
Star forward Allan Okello was central to Vipers’ title run. His composure from the spot in the final game highlighted a season in which he delivered when it mattered most.
The Venom’s midfield dynamo, Abdul Karim Watambala, anchored the team’s rhythm throughout the campaign, blending energy with precision to maintain control in crucial matches.
The duo’s partnership offered stability, flair, and resilience, key ingredients in Vipers’ late-season push that saw them overtake early leaders NEC and KCCA.
Prize Money Controversy Overshadows Celebrations
Despite the jubilant scenes at Kitende, concerns were raised across the football fraternity regarding the league’s underwhelming prize money. Vipers, as champions, will receive only UGX 60 million, a figure widely criticized as insufficient in proportion to the rigors and commercial demands of top-flight competition.
In stark contrast, the Tanzania Premier League awards its champion the equivalent of UGX 948 million, despite both competitions featuring 16 teams. The disparity has reignited debates around FUFA’s commercial priorities and the structural support available to Ugandan clubs.
Even more glaring is the payout for lower-ranked sides. Bright Stars, who held Vipers to a draw on the final day, will receive just UGX 700,000, while Mbale Heroes, who finished bottom, walk away with UGX 500,000.
Critics argue that without significant investment in club incentives and marketing, Ugandan football risks stagnation even as talent and competitiveness continue to grow.
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