After navigating a fiercely competitive West Nile Regional League 2025/26 season, Pakwach Young Stars FC now face another crucial hurdle in their pursuit of FUFA Big League football.
The West Nile representatives will lock horns with Northern Regional League champions Pajule Lions in the first leg of the FUFA Big League promotional playoffs on Sunday 14th June ,2026 at Pajule Grounds in Pader District. The highly anticipated encounter has already been billed as a clash of titans, with both sides eager to secure a place in the 2026/27 FUFA Big League season.
Speaking ahead of the decisive showdown, Pakwach Young Stars FC Chief Executive Officer Ocanda Rogers confirmed that the team is fully prepared for the challenge ahead. He called upon football fans across Pakwach and the entire West Nile region to rally behind the club as they fight for promotion to Uganda's second-tier league.
“We are ready for the task ahead and we urge all our supporters to stand with the team during this important journey. The players are motivated and determined to make the region proud,” Rogers said.
Head coach Samson Caesar Okhuti also expressed confidence in his squad, assuring fans that the team heads into the playoff without any injury concerns. The tactician revealed that the squad has received a significant boost with the return of experienced player Abdul Jailal Adnan, whose presence is expected to strengthen the team's ambitions.
“The mood in camp is positive. The players are focused and ready for the challenge. We have no injury worries, and the return of Abdul Jailal Adnan gives us additional strength as we prepare for this crucial fixture,” Okhuti noted.
The playoff tie will be decided over two legs, with the return fixture scheduled for June 20, 2026, at Luo Grounds in Nebbi Municipality. The second leg is expected to attract a large crowd as football fans from across West Nile gather to support Pakwach Young Stars in what could become one of the club's most historic moments.
With promotion to the FUFA Big League at stake, both teams will leave nothing to chance. For Pakwach Young Stars, the dream of joining Uganda's elite second division is now just two matches away.
Photo credit: Pakwach Young Star Fc Media
