Nakulabye, a bustling neighbourhood in the Rubaga Division of Kampala, is known for its vibrant nightlife and is home to some of the most passionate football fans in the city. On weekends, that passion comes alive as football culture swings into full gear.
That passion was evident on Premier League Matchday 23 on Sunday, January 25, when Guinness Matchday took over Supremacy Lounge, a popular hangout spot in the area. Fans, donning their jerseys, filled the venue to capacity to enjoy the live Premier League action on giant screens.
After Chelsea secured a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace earlier in the evening, attention shifted to the headline clash where Manchester United shocked league leaders Arsenal with a dramatic 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal took the lead when Lisandro Martínez turned the ball into his own net, but a mistake from Martín Zubimendi allowed Bryan Mbeumo to equalise for United before the break.
United went ahead early in the second half through a stunning long-range strike from Patrick Dorgu. Arsenal briefly thought they had rescued a point when Mikel Merino scored late on, but substitute Matheus Cunha curled in an 87th minute winner to hand United a famous victory and deal Arsenal a major blow in the title race.
Inside Supremacy Lounge, in-house MCs guided revellers through the action with their own live commentary delivered in the local language. The blend of humour, insight and local banter kept fans engaged throughout the match and ensured a lively matchday atmosphere.
Guinness, the official beer of the Premier League, elevated the matchday experience, with revelers savouring every sip as they followed the action.
Dressed in Manchester United’s iconic Sharp retro kit, fan Jeff Ssebagala described the win as massive, noting that back-to-back victories against Manchester City and Arsenal within one week were a strong statement of progress under current manager Michael Carrick.
“For most of the season we have been a laughing stock, but the second half of the season seems to be ours. It is not too late to play catch up and I believe we will secure Champions League football next season. I believe good times are ahead,” he said.
Arsenal supporter Tony Mwine expressed disappointment in his team’s performance but maintained that the season is still within their control.
“The league is not a one off, it is a race. Along the way there will be ups and downs, but I am confident the boys will bounce back,” Mwine, a fan of over three decades, stated.
Denise Paula Nazzinda, the Guinness Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited, said the activation, just like the previous ones, showed how Guinness Matchday can turn any ordinary weekend into a proper football celebration.
“The Guinness Matchdays are all about bringing fans closer to the game, and judging by the turnout here today, it is clear that football lovers have fully embraced the experience,” she said.
The Guinness Matchday experiences will run throughout the rest of the season across select bars and different venues around the country.
