Simba versus Mbale Heroes. Photos from Stanbic Uganda Cup X.
In a stunning upset, Uganda Premier League side Mbale Heroes were eliminated from the 2025 Stanbic Uganda Cup after a 3-2 defeat to Buganda Regional League team Simba (Uganda Wildlife Authority) at the Namulonge Ground in Gayaza on Sunday.
The Round of 64 encounter saw Mbale Heroes take an early advantage when Katumba Edgar scored in the 20th minute. However, Simba’s Oyet Patrick equalized five minutes before halftime ensuring a tightly contested first half.
Katumba struck again three minutes into the second half, restoring Mbale’s lead but Simba showed remarkable determination. Kayemba Umar’s equalizer set the stage for a thrilling finish.
The decisive moment came in the 64th minute when Kenneth Ssebaduka fired Simba into the lead, sealing a memorable victory for the hosts and stunning the visitors. Mbale Heroes became the first UPL team to bow out of the competition, a result that underscores the unpredictability of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
UPL teams Kitara FC, NEC FC, Bul FC, Express FC, Mbarara City, Police FC, Maroons, UPDF, Lugazi, Wakiso Giants, Vipers SC, Bright Stars and URA FC advanced to the Round of 32 while KCCA FC and SC Villa are yet to play.
Additionally, debutants Simba, CATDA, Bushenyi Veterans, Blacks Power, and Pakwach Young Stars have joined the mix, setting up an intriguing next stage in this year’s tournament.
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