Yobo Yobo set to defend Chaapa League in Mbarara

Yobo Yobo FC, the reigning champions, will face CHOGM FC in a highly anticipated Season 11 quarter-final at Mbarara High School grounds on September 19.

The draw at Inspire Africa Coffee Café in Kampala on Wednesday confirmed this match-up.

The other quarter-final matchups will see SC Rwizi take on Dingiswayo FC, See Far FC meet Bulls OldTimers, and CF Burdizo battle Rugabo City. The finale will also have a special women’s football fixture, with Holistics, an alumni team from Maryhill High School, taking on a select side from the Maryhill Old Girls Association (MOGA). 

This year’s edition returns to its roots under the theme “Back to the Kraal.” Like last season, the league brought together different alumni cohorts through football, friendship, and a shared Chaapa heritage. 

The regular season was played in Kampala, with the top eight teams earning a place in the finale. At the draws held at Inspire Cafe in Kampala on September 9, organisers and partners promised a day of competitive football, fan engagement and celebration. The winners will progress to the semifinals before the final showdown, where the Season 11 champions will be crowned.

 Chaapa League Chairperson Kenedy Gumisiriza said preparations are well underway for what he expects to be an exciting climax, while thanking the league’s sponsors and partners for their continued support. He said 21 teams, including one girls’ team, participated this season. 

He said teams will set off for Mbarara on September 18 from UMA Show Grounds in Lugogo and storm Mbarara by 3.00 pm before a ‘Kasiki’ at Soho Bar and before the quarter-final matches the following morning. For Guinness, the finale is an opportunity to take the experience beyond the football pitch. 

“We want everyone who comes to the finale to enjoy great football, great company and great Guinness moments. Most importantly, we want everyone to have a lovely day for a Guinness,” she said. Nazzinda added that last year’s finale showed the kind of atmosphere the partnership can create but promised an even bigger experience this time.

“The last finale was an exciting celebration, with the Guinness touch adding to the atmosphere and overall experience. This year, we are going even further. Guinness is big on football and passionate about creating experiences that live beyond the game,” she said. 

Holistics Captain Sheeba Ahereza noted that participating in the Chaapa League has allowed the team to connect with the broader alumni football community and support the competition’s growth.

“We are proud to be part of the Chaapa League, which has grown into one of the key alumni football leagues. We are looking forward to the finale and the chance to share the weekend with old students, families and football fans,” Ahereza said.