The Stanbic Uganda Cup has reached the Round of 16, with top-tier clubs and surprise contenders securing their places after a fiercely competitive Round of 32.
The final match of the round saw Maroons edge Wakiso Giants 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw at Luzira Prisons Grounds on Wednesday, February 26. Their victory sealed a spot in the last 16, joining a diverse lineup of past champions, FUFA Big League teams, and regional league hopefuls.
Defending Champions and Heavyweights Progress
Reigning champions Kitara stayed on course to defend their title with a 2-1 victory over CATDA (Kampala Regional League) on February 20.
Record ten-time winners KCCA eased past Kuluva Rainbow 2-0 in Arua on February 25, while Vipers, a three-time Uganda Cup winner, dispatched Mbarara City 2-0 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
SC Villa, the most successful club in Uganda Cup history with nine titles, eliminated Simba with a narrow 1-0 win on February 19.
Elsewhere, URA edged Mabira Town Council 1-0, while BUL, the 2022 champions, advanced with a dominant performance. Other Uganda Premier League sides to progress include Police, Lugazi, and UPDF.
NEC Stunned in Major Upset
The Round of 32 delivered its share of surprises, with last season’s finalists NEC crashing out after a shock 2-0 defeat to Blacks Power (FUFA Big League) on February 25 at MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
Diverse Competition as Underdogs Advance
The Round of 16 will see a blend of Uganda Premier League giants, FUFA Big League sides, and regional league teams battling for a quarterfinal spot.
FUFA Big League outfits Blacks Power, Gaddafi, Kaaro Karungi, and Kataka secured passage to the next stage, while regional league underdogs Rwenzori Lions and Total FC continued their fairytale runs.
The FUFA Competitions Department is set to conduct the draw for the next round, with fixtures to be announced soon.
With a CAF Confederation Cup ticket at stake for the tournament winner, the remaining teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for silverware.
Full List of Round of 16 Qualifiers
Uganda Premier League Clubs:
- SC Villa
- Vipers
- KCCA
- URA
- BUL
- Police
- Lugazi
- UPDF
- Kitara
- Maroons
FUFA Big League Clubs:
- Blacks Power
- Gaddafi
- Kataka
- Kaaro Karungi
Regional League Clubs:
- Rwenzori Lions
- Total FC
