After two decades of waiting, SC Villa fans finally had a reason to party! On a sunny Saturday evening at MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, SC Villa grabbed the 2023/24 Startimes Uganda Premier League title with a decisive 2-0 win over NEC FC.
In a game full of excitement, the second half saw SC Villa’s Charles Lwanga and Hakim Kiwanuka score the crucial goals. Lwanga’s header came in the 67th minute from a perfect cross by Umar Lutalo. The crowd erupted, but the celebrations were far from over. Patrick Jonah Kakande set up Kiwanuka for the second goal, and he coolly slotted it past NEC’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Ochan, sealing the victory and sparking wild celebrations.
Despite strong performances from BUL and Vipers SC, who won their matches 3-0 and 4-1 respectively, it was SC Villa’s day. The Jogoos finished with 57 points, just one point ahead of both BUL and Vipers SC. Villa’s win meant the results of their rivals were irrelevant to the title race.
As the final whistle blew, Villa supporters flooded the pitch in joy. The jubilant atmosphere continued with the trophy presentation, where the 2023/24 championship trophy arrived in grand style via helicopter.
This championship marks SC Villa’s record-extending 17th league title, their first since their legendary captain Paul Hasule’s passing 20 years ago. The emotional victory brought tears and cheers, uniting fans and players in celebration.
Under the guidance of Serbian coach Dusan Stojanovic, Villa played attractive and effective football all season and the team has not only broken their 20-year title drought but also set the stage for a promising future.
