Mbale Heroes Secure Promotion to Uganda Premier

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Mbale Heroes Secure Promotion to Uganda Premier League After 17-Year Hiatus

After a 17-year absence, Mbale Heroes have successfully secured their promotion back to the Uganda Premier League. The Heroes clinched their spot with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Onduparaka on the penultimate match-day of the 2023/24 FUFA Big League season.

The crucial match featured an impressive opening goal from Shafic Kiberu, who curled a spectacular direct free kick into the top corner just before halftime. Mbale Heroes showed intent more in the second half, with Daniel Shabena doubling the lead in the 70th minute. Onduparaka’s James Jarieko managed to pull one back but it registered only as a consolation goal.

This victory boosts Mbale Heroes to 49 total points, that guarantees their promotion with Kataka nor Onduparaka in the chase for promotion till final match-day. The win highlights the team’s resilience throughout a challenging season, which included significant changes such as the sacking of Head Coach Asaph Mwebaze despite the team being in third place. New coach Simon Ddungu has since taken charge, guiding the side to their top-flight return.

Mbale Heroes’ journey back to the Uganda Premier League is particularly remarkable given their recent promotion from the Regional League (third division) just last season. The last time Mbale Heroes competed in the Uganda Premier League was in the 2006/07 season, which ended in relegation alongside Mukono United, City Lads, and Masindi Town Council. The Heroes finished third from the bottom in a 17-team league, accumulating a total of 31 points.

Joining Police and Lugazi as the three promoted sides to next season’s UPL, Mbale Heroes replace Arua Hill, Gaddafi, and Busoga United, who were relegated from the top division. Mbale Heroes will conclude their campaign next Sunday with an away match against Kiyinda Boys.

Lineups

Mbale Heroes: Paul Mujampwani, Geoffrey Lubanga, Adrian Sserugo, John Ssekyaaya, Abasi Faizal Kiberu, Bahati Ronald Kibalatsi, Fahad Nsamba, Abdallah Sentongo, Isaaya Sabiiti, Shafiq Hakiramu Muzanyi, Abudul Malik Bironse

Onduparaka: Yunus Yasin Dafala, Benard Ndifuna, Sabir Simba, Jonathan Mungufeni, Ibrahim Musa, Swaleh Mahadi, Noah Sabir Mayor, Nelson Mandela, Alex Adriko, Samson Ceaser Okhuti, Ezra Bida