Vipers SC were officially crowned champions of the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League on Saturday, sealing their seventh league title in style before an ecstatic home crowd at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Despite being held to a 1-1 draw by visiting Soltilo Bright Stars, the Venoms finished the season with 69 points—two ahead of their closest rivals NEC FC, who beat URA 1-0 on the final day to finish second.
Bright Stars threatened to spoil the title party when Alou Kokas gave them a 62nd-minute lead, capitalizing on a swift counterattack set up by Nelson Ssenkatuka. However, Vipers’ star man, Okello, restored parity from the penalty spot just six minutes later after a controversial handball call in the box. Though replays suggested otherwise, the decision stood, and Okello made no mistake.
That goal not only secured the vital point needed to clinch the title but also ensured Okello finished as the league’s top scorer with 19 goals—eight of which came from the penalty spot. His closest challenger, Ivan Ahimbisibwe of URA, was unable to add to his 16-goal tally in their loss to NEC.
The trophy presentation was led by FUFA President Moses Magogo, alongside Vipers’ financier Lawrence Mulindwa and league board member Sserebe. Club captain Milton Karisa lifted the new league trophy to rapturous applause from the home fans.
The celebrations continued long into the night, with DJs Ssuuna Ben and Mbaziira Tony headlining the post-match entertainment.
Vipers will now turn their attention to the Stanbic Uganda Cup final on May 31, where they face KCCA at the newly opened FUFA Kadiba Stadium.
Elsewhere on the final day of the season, KCCA FC warmed up for the cup final with a dominant 3-0 win over rivals Express, with Julius Poloto netting twice and Emmanuel Anyama adding another. SC Villa edged Lugazi 1-0 courtesy of a Hassan Mubiru goal, while Maroons beat Mbarara City 2-0 to confirm their top-eight finish.
BUL FC wrapped up their campaign unbeaten in the second round with a 3-2 win over UPDF in a thriller, while Kitara FC recorded the biggest victory of the day, thrashing Mbale Heroes 6-1. Wakiso Giants’ relegation woes were sealed with another defeat—this time 2-0 to Police FC.
