Kiryandongo, Uganda: Kigumba Intensive Secondary School were crowned champions of the inaugural TTK Kiryandongo Cup 2025/26 after edging rivals Kigumba FC 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in a thrilling final played on Easter Sunday.
The hosts lifted the trophy in front of an electric home crowd at the school playground, capping off a tournament that delivered both competition and community excitement in equal measure.
Kigumba Intensive took the lead in the first half through a moment of brilliance from Franco Walter, whose curled corner kick sailed directly into the net to stun their opponents.
Kigumba FC responded strongly after the break, equalising through Stephen after a well-delivered free kick from Amori created the opportunity, forcing the match into a tense penalty shootout.
With nerves on edge, Kigumba Intensive held their composure to convert five spot-kicks and seal a 5-3 victory, sparking celebrations among players and fans.
The final showcased standout individual performances, including Emmanuel’s impressive saves for Kigumba FC, Walter’s decisive goal, and Stephen’s equaliser, all contributing to one of the most memorable matches of the tournament.
Individual accolades were also awarded, with Lubangakene of Kigumba Intensive named Best Goalkeeper, Tabuga of Kigumba FC finishing as Top Scorer, and Komakech Edmon Olum of Nyakatugo SA earning the Most Valuable Player award.
“This victory is a testament to our hard work, dedication, and teamwork,” said the victorious captain. “We faced tough challenges but persevered as a unit. Our fans were the 12th player on the pitch, and this triumph belongs to the entire school and Kiryandongo community.”
Tournament sponsors praised the initiative for going beyond sport to promote youth empowerment and community cohesion, urging more teams to participate in future editions.
“Football should unite us all irrespective of tribe, religion, or political affiliation,” the Guest of Honour noted. “Let’s come together to develop the game in the district and extend gratitude to the sponsors and all participating clubs.”
Organisers from TTK Football Foundation Uganda highlighted the tournament’s broader impact in fostering talent development, strengthening social cohesion, and boosting local economic activity through sports.
The competition also recognised various contributors, awarding medals and accolades to referees, legends, organisers, and participating teams, alongside prize money of UGX 1,200,000 for the champions, UGX 650,000 for runners-up, UGX 300,000 for third place, and UGX 200,000 for fourth.
Led by Founder and CEO Kisembo Juma (Tata Kuyt), the foundation described the maiden edition as a major success that has laid a strong foundation for grassroots football growth in Kiryandongo District.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
