The Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) Boys’ Football Championship reached an exciting climax today, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, as the semi-final matches unfolded at the Ngora District playgrounds. The competition, featuring 64 top secondary schools from across the country, has showcased remarkable talent and fierce rivalry, culminating in four teams battling for a coveted spot in the final scheduled for tomorrow.
Semi-final Showdowns
The first semi-final saw Bukedea Comprehensive face off against Buddo Secondary School. Bukedea had impressed fans with their resilience, having edged Kyadondo Secondary School in a nail-biting penalty shootout (8-7) after a 1-1 draw in regular time during the quarterfinals. Buddo SS, on the other hand, earned their place by narrowly defeating Uganda Martyrs Lubaga 1-0 in a closely contested match.
In the second semi-final, Jinja Progressive Academy (JIPRA) took on the formidable St Mary’s Kitende. JIPRA secured their semi-final berth with a slender 1-0 victory over Mentor Secondary School, thanks to a decisive goal from their captain, Richard Okello. Meanwhile, St Mary’s Kitende displayed their dominance by thrashing Kibuli Secondary School 3-0 in the quarterfinals, with goals from Claude Wakenge (penalty), Dennis Kisiriko, and Arafaat Nkoola.
Quarter-final Highlights
The quarterfinal stage, played on Monday, May 12, set the tone for today’s intense battles. St Mary’s Kitende’s 3-0 victory over Kibuli SS was a statement of strength, while Buddo SS’s narrow 1-0 win against Uganda Martyrs Lubaga showed their grit. Bukedea Comprehensive’s dramatic penalty shootout win over Kyadondo SS was a highlight, demonstrating nerves of steel under pressure. JIPRA’s 1-0 win over Mentor SS confirmed their status as serious contenders.
Other Sporting Highlights
Aside from football, the USSSA Ball Games 2025 also featured table tennis finals, where Kibuli SS dominated both boys’ and girls’ categories, defeating Mbogo Mixed and Mbogo High respectively with 3-0 clean sweeps. Earlier rounds in football saw some remarkable performances, including Bishop Comboni College Kambuga’s emphatic 8-0 win over Chemwania High School, the biggest margin recorded so far.
Looking Ahead
Tomorrow’s final promises to be a thrilling encounter as the winners of today’s semi-finals clash for the championship title. The competition has not only highlighted the exceptional football talent emerging from Uganda’s secondary schools but also fostered sportsmanship and unity among students nationwide.
As the tournament nears its conclusion, fans eagerly await a memorable final that will crown the best secondary school football team in Uganda for 2025. The USSSA continues to play a vital role in nurturing young athletes and promoting sports development at the grassroots level.
This year’s USSSA championship has truly been a celebration of youth talent, determination, and the spirit of competition, setting the stage for a bright future in Ugandan football.