Bonny LULE
From the Unforgivable (remember this piece by yours truly? If you missed it you can check it out here) to now the unforgettable
On Saturday, May 17th, SC Villa etched a new chapter in their storied history by finally reclaiming the Ugandan Premier League title after an arduous 20-year wait. This monumental victory brought an end to two decades of near-misses, heartbreaks, and perseverance, igniting celebrations among the club’s loyal supporters and the broader football community in Uganda.
The last time SC Villa lifted the coveted trophy was under the guidance of Serbian coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojević. Fittingly, the latest triumph also came under the stewardship of another Serbian, Dusan Stojanovic. The connection between the two coaches runs deep, as Stojanovic previously served as Micho’s assistant at both Zamalek and the Zambian national team, fostering a close friendship and professional camaraderie.
It is actually said that it’s Micho that recommended his fellow countryman to the Villa management, talk about having ‘connections ‘in the real Ugandan sense of it.
Stojanovic’s appointment came with high expectations, following the controversial conclusion to the previous season. Jackson Magera, who led Villa to what should have been a league-winning campaign on the pitch, saw the title slip away in the boardroom due to a point deduction imposed by FUFA for fan violence. This setback only added to the club’s woes and intensified the pressure on Stojanovic to deliver silverware.
Dusan Stojanovic’s hiring was seen as a strategic move, aimed at restoring Villa’s glory. For many fans, his success would only be validated if he could secure the league title that had narrowly eluded Magera. Stojanovic embraced the challenge, and his efforts culminated in a triumphant conclusion that will be remembered for generations.
This 17th league title for SC Villa is not just a number but a symbol of resilience and undying passion. It stands out as one of the club’s most significant achievements, not only because of the long wait but also due to the dramatic and emotional journey to reclaim it. For context, a 30-year-old Villa fan today was merely 10 years old the last time their beloved club was crowned champions. The prolonged drought made this victory all the more sweet and historic.
The scenes at Lugogo on Saturday were nothing short of spectacular. Fans flooded the stadium, their joy palpable, creating an atmosphere of jubilation and relief. It was a day marked by tears of happiness, chants of victory, and an overwhelming sense of pride. For the Villa faithful, it was a moment of redemption and a celebration of their unwavering support through two decades of trials and tribulations.
As the dust settles on this remarkable achievement, it is crucial to reflect on the lessons learned. The previous season’s heartbreak due to off-field issues serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining discipline not only by the players but by the fans too. The Villa fans who engaged in acts of violence that led to the point deduction must remember the consequences of their actions. It is their responsibility to ensure that history does not repeat itself, to protect the club’s future successes.
In conclusion, SC Villa’s return to the pinnacle of Ugandan football is a testament to the club’s enduring spirit and the dedication of everyone involved. From the players and coaches to the fans, to club presidents Haji Omar Mandela in particular together with his team, each played a vital role in this long-awaited triumph. As they bask in the glory of this victory, the club can look forward to a bright future barring an exodus of winning players and the coach himself, hopeful that the lessons of the past will guide them towards continued success.
