The race for supremacy in the 2026 Uganda Handball Super League continued to gather momentum over the weekend as Matchday 17 served up two compelling encounters at Old Kampala Sports Hall.
With the season entering a critical phase, every point carries greater significance, and both UPDF Handball Club and Prisons Handball Club responded with impressive victories that reinforced their ambitions for a strong finish to the campaign.
The atmosphere inside the Old Kampala Arena venue reflected the growing intensity of the league. Players, coaches, and supporters understood what was at stake as teams sought to position themselves favourably ahead of the final stretch of the season. The result was a weekend characterised by fast-paced attacks, physical defensive battles, and individual brilliance that kept spectators engaged from the opening whistle to the final buzzer.
UPDF overcome Police in high-intensity battle
The headline fixture of Matchday 17 saw UPDF HC secure an important 38-31 victory over Police HC in a contest that lived up to expectations.
From the outset, both sides demonstrated why they remain among the league’s most respected teams. UPDF showed greater efficiency in attack, finding openings in the Police defence and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. By halftime, the soldiers had established a 21-17 advantage, giving them a four-goal cushion heading into the second half.
Police HC refused to back down and continued to push forward after the break. Their offensive unit remained active, with several players contributing to the scoresheet and ensuring the contest remained competitive. However, every time Police threatened to close the gap, UPDF found answers.
A major factor in the victory was the outstanding performance of Francis Ongom, who emerged as UPDF’s leading scorer with nine goals. His ability to convert chances at crucial moments provided the backbone of the army side’s attack. He was ably supported by Bruhan Bogere, who added six goals, while Vincent Tibamwenda contributed five. Medard Twine also delivered an influential performance with four goals as UPDF maintained pressure throughout the encounter.
The depth of UPDF’s squad was evident as multiple players contributed offensively. Jonathan Atandu added three goals, Bashir Kirani Mumbere netted three, while Allan Simiyu Munialo, Felix Mukunzi, Ivan Mwesigye, Gerald Pirwoth, Abel Winta Mukiibi and others chipped in to ensure a balanced attacking display.
Police HC, meanwhile, showed resilience despite the defeat. Geoffrey Ssekamanya and Daniel Bongomin each scored seven goals to lead the Police attack. Shakib Nyanzi Ssentamu added four goals, while Emmanuel Lukenge and Badru Opio each contributed three. Their efforts kept Police within touching distance for long periods, but UPDF’s superior consistency in both attack and defence ultimately proved decisive.
The seven-goal margin at full-time reflected UPDF’s ability to manage the game in key moments and convert pressure into goals. As the season progresses, victories of this nature could prove invaluable in the battle for league positions.
Ruthless Prisons dominate Uzalendo
If the UPDF-Police clash was a tactical battle, the encounter between Prisons HC and Uzalendo HC was a statement of dominance.
Prisons HC produced one of their most complete performances of the season, cruising to a convincing 36-22 victory over Uzalendo. The foundation for the win was laid during a remarkable first half in which Prisons overwhelmed their opponents on both ends of the court.
By halftime, Prisons had built a commanding 19-7 lead, effectively placing one hand on the victory before the second half had even begun. Their defensive organisation limited Uzalendo’s scoring opportunities, while their transition play and finishing efficiency repeatedly punished defensive lapses.
Victor Obedmoth was the standout performer for Prisons, finishing as the game’s top scorer with nine goals. Mark Okwakol provided excellent support with four goals, while Dan Aboku and Denis Okwer also contributed four goals apiece. Umar Okello and Collins Twinamasiko each added five goals, underlining the attacking depth that made life difficult for Uzalendo throughout the afternoon.
The scoring spread highlighted the collective nature of the Prisons’ performance. Sharifu Lukwago, Walter Okot, Edgar Ssemirimu, Solomon Okwir and Ibrahim Koire all played their part in ensuring the team maintained momentum from start to finish.
For Uzalendo, Prince Awachango Nyeko led the scoring with five goals, while Derrick Anguzu and Aaron Odongo each added three. Erica Ahmed Ntege, Emmanuel Kayomtho, Kenneth Ayebale and Yashir Hassan also found the net, but they struggled to match the intensity and efficiency displayed by Prisons.
The fourteen-goal victory demonstrated Prisons HC’s growing confidence and highlighted their credentials as one of the league’s strongest contenders. Their ability to dominate from the first whistle and maintain concentration throughout the sixty minutes will undoubtedly encourage the coaching staff as the season enters its decisive stages.