Kataka Earns Premier League Promotion After Years of Near Misses

Kataka Football Club has officially earned a coveted spot in the 2026/27 Uganda Premier League, ending a decade-long tenure in the second tier and a 22-year wait for top-flight football. The Mbale City side achieved this dream on the final day of the 2025/26 FUFA Big League season, overcoming previous near-misses.

On Sunday, Kataka secured their promotion with a 2-0 victory over Soltilo Bright Stars at the Bugolobi Coffee Grounds. This win, their second away from home in the concluded season, propelled them to third place in the standings with 51 points. This was sufficient to claim one of the four promotion slots, an increase from the previous three under FUFA’s updated competition format.

The crucial opening goal came in the 41st minute when Ali Ssentamu converted a penalty, awarded after Isaac Owiny was fouled by Sharif Nsereko. Kataka’s historic victory was sealed in the 87th minute by Usama Khayemba, a goal that appeared to be from an offside position based on replays.

Meanwhile, Blacks Power were crowned champions of the FUFA Big League. The Lira-based club secured the title with a goalless draw against Onduparaka in Arua, finishing the season with 55 points. Ntugasaze finished second with 53 points, also earning promotion. Kigezi Homeboyz completed the promoted quartet, finishing fourth with 51 points.

The defeat proved dire for Soltilo Bright Stars, who, along with Nebbi Central, Wakiso Giants, and Mbale Heroes, face relegation to the Regional League. Mbale Heroes concluded a difficult campaign at the bottom of the table.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.