All-new final as YMCA, Muteesa battle for University League title

Kampala, Uganda: The 2025/26 Pepsi University Football League reaches its climax this Saturday with a historic final as YMCA Comprehensive Institute face Muteesa I Royal University at the iconic Hamz Stadium Nakivubo.

Both sides are first-time finalists, guaranteeing a new champion will be crowned in what promises to be a defining moment for university football in Uganda.

Muteesa I Royal University booked their place in the final with a commanding 3-1 aggregate victory over St Lawrence University, ending the Saints’ remarkable six-year unbeaten home run. YMCA, meanwhile, edged Kampala University 6-5 on penalties after a tense semifinal battle to secure their maiden final appearance.

The final also marks a milestone for the competition, becoming the first title decider to be hosted at Nakivubo since its redevelopment—adding further prestige to an already high-stakes encounter.

Muteesa’s road to the final has been particularly impressive, having eliminated defending champions Uganda Martyrs University in the quarterfinals before dispatching St Lawrence in the last four. YMCA’s journey has been equally resilient, overcoming Kumi University in the quarterfinals and Kampala University in a dramatic semifinal.

Meanwhile, St Lawrence University will take on Kampala University in the third-place playoff earlier on the same day.

The University Football League, organised by Red Rhino Group and sponsored by Crown Beverages Limited, continues to expand its footprint in Ugandan sport. This season saw participation grow from 23 to 29 universities, including newcomers such as King Ceasor University, Mountains of the Moon University, African Renewal University, Soroti University and Lira University.

With both finalists chasing history, all eyes will be on Nakivubo as a new name is set to be etched onto the University League trophy.