The 2025 UFL semifinal draw, held on Friday morning at Kati Kati, has pitted St. Lawrence University (SLAU) against the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) in a highly anticipated two-legged clash. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams seeking to make their mark in UFL history.
SLAU, a consistent semifinalist, has reached this stage on four previous occasions but has yet to lift the elusive trophy.
In contrast, IUIU is returning to the semifinals for the first time since 2018, presenting an opportunity to make history and push for a first-ever UFL title.
The first leg of the matchup will take place on Thursday, April 3rd, in Mbale, with the return leg scheduled for Thursday, April 10th, at Kavule, SLAU’s home ground.
SLAU’s head coach, Davis Nnono, acknowledges the challenges ahead, describing the tie as “tricky” but expressing optimism about his team’s chances.
“We are going to handle it as it has come,” Nnono said.
“IUIU is tricky, and Mbale is not the perfect place you would choose to go, but we are going to play our way.”
The coach also highlighted the experience gap between his team and the players, noting that while he has been at this stage four times, his squad is relatively new to high-pressure games.
The other semifinal will feature Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), Nkozi against the winner of the Bugema University and Muteesa I Royal University matchup.
Their second-leg quarterfinal match ended prematurely due to unforeseen circumstances, and a final verdict is expected in the coming week.
The UFL has a rich history, with past winners including Makerere University, Kampala University, MUBS, Uganda Martyrs University – Nkozi, Kyambogo University, Uganda Christian University, and Nkumba University.
The stage is set for a new champion to emerge, and both SLAU and IUIU are determined to make their mark.
