The new season of the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League (2025/26) kicks off this Friday with a high-profile opener between five-time champions Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC and reigning champions Kampala Queens FC. The much-anticipated clash, set for 4pm at the Kawempe Muslim Ground, brings together the league’s two biggest powerhouses in what has become one of Ugandan women’s football’s fiercest rivalries.
Kawempe and Kampala Queens have faced each other eight times in the league, with the Warriors holding a slight edge—five wins compared to the Queens’ three. Both clubs have gone through significant squad changes, adding fresh talent as they bid to strengthen their title credentials.
At Wednesday’s official season launch held at Finance Trust Bank head offices in Kampala, both camps were bullish about their chances. Kawempe coach Ayub Khalifa was quick to highlight the addition of striker Latifa Nakasi, a signing he believes solves last season’s biggest challenge—scoring goals.
“Our scoring rate was low last season. We only depended on Agnes Nabukenya for goals. We decided to go for Latifa Nakasi and we are a better team now. We want to win all 22 games while playing entertaining football for the fans,” said Khalifa.
The Warriors also secured defenders Amina Nakato and Asia Nakibuuka to replace Jolly Kobusingye, who controversially crossed over to Kampala Queens.
On the other side, Kampala Queens enter the campaign without several of last season’s stars. Player of the Year Zainah Nandede left for Simba Queens in Tanzania, while Most Valuable Player Shamira Nalugya signed for Belarusian side FC Minsk. Goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro, who kept 16 clean sheets last term, is also out.
Still, Queens assistant coach Sharon Kizza remains confident, stressing that recruitment has been strong and the team is still set on winning a second consecutive title.
“Good players are made by coaches. We have recruited well and we are ready to pick maximum points from the Valley like we did last season. We respect Kawempe but we do not fear them,” Kizza said.
Their squad has been bolstered by striker Joanita Ainembabazi, defenders Catherine Wujja and Marion Amangat, Zambian duo Precious Phiri and Square Maiwase, plus goalkeeper Sharon Kaidu.
Both teams, however, will have to contend with injuries. Kawempe midfielder Shakira Nyinagihirwa is not fully fit, while the Queens are missing Wayodi Merciline and Kwatulira Winfred. Last season, the sides traded away wins—Queens thumped Kawempe 4-1 in the Valley before the Warriors claimed a 2-1 revenge victory at Lugogo.
