Stanbic Uganda Cup: Magogo Survives Villa Fans’ Fury As Kitara Lifts Second Trophy
By Kayiira Jackson
Kitara FC lifted the Stanbic Uganda Cup for the second time in their history after edging Sports Club Villa 2-1 in a thrilling final played on Saturday at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, Buikwe District.
However, the highly entertaining encounter was overshadowed by ugly scenes after the match when angry SC Villa fans hurled bottles and stones at FUFA President Moses Magogo during the trophy presentation ceremony.
The final lived up to expectations with both sides displaying attacking football from the opening whistle. SC Villa struck first in the 10th minute through Kato Simon Ssemayange, whose finish handed the Jogoos an early lead and sent their supporters into wild celebrations.
But Villa’s advantage lasted only four minutes as Kitara FC drew level in the 14th minute through an own goal by defender Diego Misi. Misi accidentally diverted Patrick Kaddu’s dangerous delivery into his own net, restoring parity in a tense contest.
The first half ended 1-1, with both teams creating several chances in an evenly balanced affair.
Kitara FC returned from the break with renewed energy and needed just one minute into the second half to find what proved to be the winning goal. Jimmy Kalema unleashed a thunderous strike that beat the Villa goalkeeper and sent the Kitara bench into celebration.
Despite late pressure from SC Villa, Kitara held firm to secure a historic victory and claim their second major trophy.
Drama unfolded after the final whistle during the trophy awarding ceremony. FUFA President Moses Magogo faced hostility from sections of the SC Villa supporters, who insulted him and accused him of unfairness before chaos erupted.
Bottles and stones were thrown toward Magogo as he and other officials walking towards the podium to hand over the trophy to the champions. Security personnel quickly intervened and also escorted the FUFA boss and other guests to safety, with no serious injuries reported immediately after he awarded the trophy.
Meanwhile, tournament sponsors Stanbic Uganda awarded Kitara FC UGX 50 million as winners, while runners-up SC Villa received UGX 25 million.
Plascon Uganda also rewarded individual performers with 50-inch Smart TVs following their outstanding displays throughout the competition.
Kitara FC dominated the individual accolades, with Gaddafi Wahab winning both the Most Valuable Player and Best Midfielder awards. Ssenkaaba George finished as the tournament’s top scorer, while Meddie Kibirige was named Best Goalkeeper.
SC Villa’s David Owori walked away with the Best Defender accolade.
Individual Award Winners
MVP & Best Midfielder: Gaddafi Wahab (Kitara FC)
Top Scorer: Ssenkaaba George (Kitara FC)
Best Goalkeeper: Meddie Kibirige (Kitara FC)
Best Defender: David Owori (SC Villa)