The race for the Uganda Cup reaches its decisive stage on Saturday as league champions Black Pirates host Kobs, while Heathens clash with Buffaloes in a Kyadondo derby.
In 26 years of the competition, only three sides Heathens (14 titles), Kobs (7) and Pirates with two titles have ever lifted the trophy.
Buffaloes are the only semifinalists yet to win it, but their hard-fought victory over league finalists Hippos has underlined their growth into a genuine contender.
At Kings Park, Pirates arrive in blistering Cup form. They have overpowered every opponent in their path, highlighted by a commanding 68-20 quarterfinal demolition of Impis which was the biggest score line of the stage.
Captain Isaac Massa has been the heartbeat of this run with 74 points, combining four tries with precision off the boot but the skipper insists their momentum is a product of collective discipline rather than individual brilliance.
‘It’s a gradual process where everyone has been pulling in the same direction,’ Massa said. ‘But it’s another big game that we take minute by minute. We’ll go and review the quarters and see what we’ve to improve in the next match.’
Pirates’ firepower is further boosted by Haruna Mohammed (38 points) and leading try scorer Jeremiah Okello, who has crossed seven times.
Their opponents Kobs, although disrupted by cancellations throughout the tournament, appear to be finding their tempo again.
They posted a massive 102-3 win over Fort Portal Tyrants and edged Buffaloes 16-14 in a gritty contest at Legends.
Head coach Timothy Mudoola is unfazed by Pirates’ form. ‘Pirates are looking good beating everyone but that doesn’t move us,’ he said.
‘This is the only remaining trophy to close the season and we want it. We’re going in there to give a fight.’ With seven Uganda Cup titles already, Kobs’ pedigree remains undeniable.
Across at Kyadondo, fourteen-time champions Heathens are showing renewed bite under coach Tolbert Onyango.
Their physically imposing style powered them past Impis, Kitgum Lions and a solid 35-17 win over Victoria Sharks. Onyango expects a bruising semifinal.
‘We expect it to be a fast-paced game with lots of tackles,’ he warned. ‘We shall stay in the fight to the last whistle because where you snooze, you lose.’
Buffaloes, however, believe their moment is coming. ‘It’s always tough to face Heathens but we have grown and matured enough to handle any opponent now,’ said coach Andrew Owor who has been handling the team in the absence of Charles Onen.
‘The squad has grown and we’re ready to give a fight in the remaining fixtures.’
2025 UGANDA CUP
Semifinal fixtures – Today
Pirates vs. Kobs, Bweyogerere – 4pm
Heathens vs. Buffaloes, Kyadondo – 4pm