• Big League qualification first leg playoff
• Gladiators’ Comeback Mission
• Gateway’s relegation from the FUFA Big League last season
• Paidha Black Angels trying to climb back
• Road to final playoff stage
• #UgSportsNow
Northern Gateway SC will clash with Paidha Black Angels this Sunday at the Gates Stadium – UTC Lira, at 15:00 EAT. The first leg playoff of the final FUFA Big League qualification stage will be hosted by the gladiators (Northern Gateway SC) before visiting the West Nile based side (The Blacks) in a week’s time at the 6,000 capacity Stadium (Bar Okoro) in Paidha, Zombo district. The stakes are high for both teams as they seek redemption and a return to the second tier League after facing relegation in the previous season.
Also read: Northern Gateway, the only Club in Play Offs – Four were Relegated from Big League
Gladiators’ Comeback Mission
Northern Gateway SC, the champions of the Northern Regional League, are on a mission to make a strong comeback to the FUFA Big League. They are the sole club among the four relegated teams from the second tier League last season that is vying to earn their spot back. Despite only spending one season in the third division, Northern Gateway SC has shown resilience and determination to rise up the ranks once again.
Gateway’s relegation from the FUFA Big League last season
Last season was tough for several teams in the FUFA Big League, including Soroti City FC, Luweero United, Adjumani Town Council, and Northern Gateway SC who got axed and dropped to the 3rd division of their respective regions. However, while the other teams settled for their positions, Northern Gateway SC is determined to fight their way back to the second division, showcasing their ambition and desire to compete at a higher level once again.
Also read: NRFA Playoff: Gladiators Stubbed Lions FC at Halftime
Paidha Black Angels, former UPL side trying to climb back to where it belongs
On the other side, Paidha Black Angels Football Club, a former Uganda Premier League entity, faced a disappointing season in the second division (2020/21 season), leading to their official relegation to the West Nile Regional League. Their fate was sealed with a crushing 6-2 defeat at the hands of Gaddafi in a match that took place at the Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe, Jinja on June 6th, 2021.
Road to final playoff stage
Northern Gateway SC emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter with Pajule Lions FC, securing a 2-1 win at the Elephant Stadium in Olwiyo, located in the Nwoya district. The narrow win earned the Gladiators Northern Regional League Championship.
The game kicked off with Northern Gateway SC seizing an early lead, setting the tone for their dominant performance. The Gladiators further solidified their lead by doubling the score in the first half, showcasing their prowess on the field. However, Pajule Lions FC displayed resilience and determination, managing to pull one goal back just a minute before the halftime break, keeping the game intense and competitive.
Despite Pajule Lions’ valiant efforts and their late first half consolation goal, it was Northern Gateway SC who emerged victorious, clinching the Northern Regional League Championship title. The Gladiators’ stellar performance throughout the match highlighted their commitment, teamwork, and skill, ultimately securing their well-deserved victory and cementing their position as the champions of the league.
Also read: Northern Gateway Clinches Championship, Sets Playoff Date with PBA
In another exciting match in the West Nile Regional League, Paidha Black Angels staged a remarkable comeback after initially trailing by a goal to beat Araka FC with a score of 2-1 at The Greenlight Stadium in Arua City. The victory in the final secured the championship title for Paidha Black Angels in the West Nile 3rd division.
As champions of the West Nile 3rd division, Paidha Black Angels have now earned the opportunity to compete in the play-offs for promotion to the Big League, tussling it out with Northern Gateway SC, Northern Regional League Champions.
The upcoming clash between Northern Gateway SC and Paidha Black Angels promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams aim to secure a crucial victory in the first leg playoff.
The winner of the two legged playoff on aggregate will earn automatic promotion to the BetPawa Big League comes 2024/25 season.
The matchup will not only be a test of skill and strategy but also a battle of determination and perseverance as these teams strive to revive their fortunes and reclaim their status in the FUFA Big League. Football fans can expect an intense and competitive game as the two sides give their all to secure a place in the prestigious second tier League.
