Legends Cup returns to RFUEA Grounds with nostalgic clash between Kenya and Uganda

The RFUEA Grounds will this Saturday, 27 September play host to the much-anticipated return leg of the Legends Cup, an annual fixture that rekindles old rivalries and celebrates rugby’s rich heritage.

The competition, which brings together retired greats of Kenyan and Ugandan rugby, has quickly grown into one of the most colorful events on the veterans’ rugby calendar.

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Brimming with nostalgia, the match provides an opportunity for fans to relive the glory days of their heroes, many of whom now hold managerial roles in top clubs.

Kenya Legends enter the contest as the dominant force in the fixture, having won both legs of the 2024 edition: 24-15 in Nairobi and 26-15 in Kampala, sealing a 50-30 aggregate victory.

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The triumph followed an emphatic 69-18 aggregate win in 2023, stretching their winning streak over Uganda to four consecutive matches.

Earlier this year, the Legends edged Uganda 19-17 at Kyadondo Rugby Club in Kampala during the first leg of the 2025 edition.

That narrow win means Kenya carries momentum into Saturday’s return leg as they chase a fifth straight triumph.

The Kenyan side retains a strong core from the Kampala trip, with the likes of Joel Nganga, Edwin Machanje, Eddie Omondi, Vincent Mose, and Darwin Mukidza in the lineup.

Excitingly, new faces such as former Kenya Sevens star Collins Injera, Frank Mutuku, Sean Edwards, and Victor Sudi add further depth and flair.

Uganda Legends, meanwhile, are determined to break their duck in the competition.

Captained by the vastly experienced Alex Mubiru, the squad includes stalwarts such as Asuman Mugerwa, Tony Okello, Robert Aziku, Victor Wadia, and Mohammed Athiyo.

A key talking point is the inclusion of newly appointed South Coast Pirates head coach Tony Khadambi, whose presence brings both leadership and grit to the Ugandan pack.

The visitors know that a first-ever victory would not only end Kenya’s dominance but also inject new energy into the cross-border rivalry.

The Legends Cup will headline a packed day of rugby at the RFUEA Grounds.

Proceedings begin at 9:00 a.m. with age-grade matches, before the Stephanie Rose Memorial Cup takes center stage at 11:00 a.m.

The women’s competition will feature Mwamba, Impala, Kenya Harlequin Queens, and Northern Suburbs in what promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent.

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The Legends clash between Kenya and Uganda kicks off at 4:00 p.m., capping off the day’s action.

Beyond the competition, the Legends Cup has become renowned for its vibrant atmosphere.

The 2024 edition will be remembered not only for the on-field rivalry but also for its lighthearted moments, including comical water breaks that had fans laughing.

The event concluded with a lively afterparty featuring the Maroon Commandos and award-winning artist Nyashinski, who lit up the crowd.

This year’s return leg promises more of the same.

©Tabby Nashipae

How it all began

The Legends Cup traces its roots back to Nondies veterans’ tours across Southern Africa, Dubai, and Europe.

After fizzling out, former Nondies star Eddie Omondi partnered with Auka Gacheo, then Nondies chairman, to revive the veterans’ side in 2016.

Reborn as Kenya Legends, the team impressed at the 2019 Dubai Sevens before Mwamba and Quins joined to strengthen the squad.

Their performances at Dubai in 2022 and 2023 laid the groundwork for the cross-border series against Uganda, officially birthing the Legends Cup.