UPL: UPDF Seek First League Win of 2026 in Relegation Battle

Matchday 22 | Thursday Fixtures
UPDF FC vs Mbarara City FC – 4pm, Bombo
NEC FC vs URA FC – 8pm, Lugogo

UPDF FC will be aiming to secure their first league victory of 2026 when they host Mbarara City FC in Bombo on Thursday.

Currently in the relegation zone with 14 points, UPDF FC have not won a league match since 5 December 2025. A victory today would see them climb out of the drop zone.

Their last win came at home, and the fixture presents another opportunity to collect maximum points against a side they have historically dominated.

In 10 league meetings, UPDF FC have won seven matches, drawn two, and lost just once to Mbarara City. The latter’s only victory over UPDF dates back to 2017, nine years ago.

In the reverse fixture, a 10-man UPDF FC edged Mbarara City 1-0, with Samuel Ssekamate, now at NEC FC, scoring the decisive goal.

Both teams come into this match following goalless draws in their previous league outings.

Historically, this fixture has often been decided by fine margins, with the team that scores first usually going on to win or at least secure a draw.

A win for UPDF FC would see them complete a league double over Mbarara City for the second consecutive season, while defeat for the visitors could push them into the relegation zone.

In the late kick-off, URA FC will visit NEC FC in Lugogo, with Mbalangu set to face his former side.