Kitara FC were crowned champions of the 2026 Stanbic Uganda Cup after coming from behind to defeat SC Villa 2-1 in a thrilling final played at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru on Saturday, May 30.
The Hoima-based side showed resilience and determination to overturn an early deficit and secure their second Uganda Cup title in three seasons, further cementing their status as one of Uganda’s emerging football powerhouses.
SC Villa made a bright start and took the lead in the 10th minute through Simon Kato Ssemayange, sending their supporters into celebration. However, their advantage lasted only three minutes as Kitara FC found an immediate response. Under pressure from Kitara’s attack, Missi Diego Semugera inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, restoring parity at 1-1.
The remainder of the first half was evenly contested, with both teams creating opportunities while maintaining defensive discipline. Neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval, leaving the match finely balanced at halftime.
Kitara FC emerged from the break with renewed energy and completed the turnaround just two minutes into the second half. Jimmy Kalema struck in the 47th minute to put his side ahead for the first time in the contest.
With the lead secured, Kitara FC displayed composure and organisation as SC Villa pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Despite sustained pressure from the nine-time Uganda Cup winners, Kitara held firm through the closing stages to preserve their advantage and seal victory at the final whistle.
The triumph marks Kitara FC’s second Uganda Cup success, having previously won their maiden title in 2024 with a 1-0 victory over NEC FC. The latest achievement highlights the club’s continued rise in Ugandan football and adds another major trophy to their growing collection.
For SC Villa, the defeat comes despite another impressive run in a competition where they remain one of the most successful clubs. The Jogoos have won the Uganda Cup nine times, with only Express FC and KCCA FC, who have ten titles each, boasting a better record in the tournament.
Kitara FC’s Frank Zaga Tumwesigye was named the FlexiPay Man of the Match for his outstanding performance in the final.
Individual honours also went Kitara’s way, with Meddie Kibirige named Best Goalkeeper, while Gadafi Wahab claimed both the Most Valuable Player and Best Midfielder awards. SC Villa’s Davis Owori was recognised as the Best Defender of the tournament.
Kitara complete comeback against SC Villa to lift Uganda Cup
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