The 2025/26 season of the FUFA Big League, Uganda’s second-tier football competition, is set to kick off on Sunday, September 28, 2025, with fixtures released and eagerly anticipated across the football fraternity. This season marks renewed excitement with 16 competing clubs aiming for promotion to the elite Uganda Premier League.
Overview of the 2025/26 FUFA Big League Season
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Start Date: September 28, 2025
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Number of Clubs: 16 (expanded from 15 last season)
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Promotion Format: Top 2 teams gain automatic promotion; 3rd place enters a playoff with the 14th placed Uganda Premier League team
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Significance: The FUFA Big League remains a vital platform for emerging talent and clubs aspiring for top-flight football in Uganda
Notable Opening Fixtures (Sunday, September 28, 2025)
| Home Team | Away Team | Venue | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paidha Black Angels | Nebbi Central FC | Bar Okoro Stadium, Zombo | West Nile |
| Blacks Power FC | Onduparaka FC | Ebenezer University Playground | Lira City |
| Ntugasaze FC | Kiyinda Boys FC | Ssaza Ground, Mityana | Central Region |
| CATDA FC | Kigezi Homeboyz FC | Bugolobi Coffee Grounds | Kampala |
| Iganga United FC | Mbale Heroes FC | Iganga Ssaza Grounds | Eastern Region |
| Wakiso Giants FC | Young Elephant FC | Kabaka Kyabagu Stadium | Central Region |
| Kaaro Karungi FC | Bunyaruguru United FC | Kyamate Playground, Ntungamo | Western Region |
| Kataka FC | Soltilo Bright Stars | Mbale City Stadium | Eastern Region |
Fixture Insights and Season Format Changes
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The season opener features the West Nile derby with Paidha Black Angels SC hosting Nebbi Central FC, a match expected to set a fiery tone for the league.
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Several newly promoted teams such as CATDA FC and Iganga United FC will test their mettle against established clubs, adding unpredictability to the league.
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The change in the promotion format where only the top two teams gain direct promotion increases the competitiveness at the top of the table, while the third-place team’s playoff chance adds drama to the relegation and promotion battles.
FUFA Big League 2025/26: Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Kickoff | Sunday, 28th September 2025 |
| Total Clubs Competing | 16 (expanded from previous 15 teams) |
| Promotion Spots | 2 automatic, 1 via playoff with 14th Uganda PL team |
| Opening Match Highlight | West Nile derby: Paidha Black Angels vs Nebbi Central |
| Important Venues | Bar Okoro Stadium, Ebenezer University Ground, Kabaka Kyabagu Stadium, Mbale City Stadium |
Significance for Ugandan Football
The FUFA Big League plays a crucial role in the football ecosystem in Uganda by:
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Serving as a developmental league for players, coaches, and clubs.
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Providing a competitive environment to elevate clubs to the Uganda Premier League.
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Offering thrilling regional rivalries and new storylines each season.
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Enhancing visibility for emerging football talent across Uganda.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 FUFA Big League season promises excitement, high drama, and fierce competition as 16 ambitious clubs embark on their quest for promotion. With important derbies scheduled from the very first matchday and a new promotion format in place, fans can expect a captivating season full of surprises. The league’s fixtures will be closely followed across the country, as clubs like Paidha Black Angels, Onduparaka FC, Kigezi Homeboyz, and others aim to secure their promotion to Uganda’s top-tier football.
Fans should mark their calendars for the official kick-off on September 28, 2025, and look forward to a thrilling showcase of Ugandan football talent and passion.