Written By | Alex Mbamanya
The Uganda Cup Trophy
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It has always been a stage for upsets against big sides in the early rounds of the Stanbic Uganda Cup, and this year’s edition seems no different.
Most of these upsets can be traced back to 2020, when giants Vipers SC were eliminated by lower-league side Kajjansi United 8–7 on penalties at the round of 64. In 2017, the same side lost 1–0 to FUFA Big League side Paidha Black Angels at the same stage. In another shock, league giants then Onduparaka FC were eliminated 1–0 by non-league side Rwampara FC.
Full Stanbic Uganda Cup draw
As this year’s round of 64 draw was conducted on Wednesday, the giants will once again have to face lower-tier sides away from home in this knockout stage, with the minors beaming to cause upsets.
Defending champions Vipers SC once again find themselves travelling long distances, and mindful of past experiences, head to the Northern Region to take on regional league side Northern Gateway. Hopefuls SC Villa will also face regional league side Pallisa Hospital away in Pallisa.
League strugglers Mbarara City will travel to Busia to battle Busia Young Stars and will be aiming to avoid further embarrassment after a difficult league campaign, having recently been hammered 6–1 by record winners SC Villa.
Western Region League outfits Six O’Clock and debutantes Bwizibwera United are bracing for a similar show of might in their respective outings.
Bushenyi-based Six O’Clock await former champions Mbale Heroes at their den, Kizinda Playgrounds, while Mbarara-based Bwizibwera United welcome Iganga United in Bwizibwera.
“We have been taking part in this national-level round but not going far, and this time we are coming out all guns blazing to make a statement. We know we are playing a former champion who has just been in the top flight, so our opponent is not simple. However, with home support, we hope to overcome this hurdle,” said Six O’Clock chairman Jonathan Tumuhaise.
Former Express star Umar Ssenoga draws Six O'Clock
This round of the 52nd edition of the competition is scheduled to be played between February 4 and 10, 2026.
There has been a recorded rise in participation numbers over the last four editions. A total of 308 teams featured in the 49th edition, 312 teams took part in the 50th edition, 316 teams participated last year, and this year a whopping 333 teams have entered the competition.
Selected Draws
Six O’Clock vs Mbale Heroes
Bwizibwera FC vs Iganga United
Kabale City vs Onduparaka
Mutolere SC vs Wakiso Giants
Pallisa Hospital vs SC Villa
Northern Gateway vs Vipers SC
Busia Young Stars vs Mbarara City
St George Masindi vs KCCA
Packwach Young vs Express FC
Lugazi Nabugabo vs Kigezi Home Boys
Bwondha Victoria vs Kaaro Karungi
Booma FC vs Bunyaruguru United
