In a night that will live long in the memory of Ugandan football fans, Ibrahim Sekagya, Ibrahim Kasule, and Steven Sserwadda were at the heart of New York Red Bulls II’s historic triumph, as the side lifted the MLS Next Pro Cup with a thrilling 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Colorado Rapids 2 on Sunday.
The match had everything football lovers crave: tension, resilience, and a breathtaking comeback. Red Bulls II seemed destined for heartbreak at halftime, trailing 2-0 thanks to early goals from Billio Diop and James Cameron. But the team, led by Sekagya’s tactical brilliance and fighting spirit, staged a remarkable turnaround in the second half.
Rafael Mosquera ignited the revival with a crucial strike just after the hour mark, and Roald Mitchell followed with a composed finish to level the scores at 2-2. The drama escalated when Antony Garcia restored the Rapids’ lead in the 78th minute, yet the Red Bulls refused to surrender. Moments later, Mosquera calmly converted a penalty to make it 3-3, forcing the match into a high-stakes shootout.
From the penalty spot, the Red Bulls held their nerve, edging out their opponents 4-3 and securing their first-ever MLS Next Pro Cup. The victory etched a historic milestone for the club and underscored Sekagya’s rising reputation as a coach capable of inspiring young talent.
YOUR @MLSNEXTPRO CUP CHAMPIONS 🏆 pic.twitter.com/rFIy8SEfPR
— New York Red Bulls II (@NYRBII) November 9, 2025
For Uganda, the triumph was more than just silverware. Sekagya, a former national team captain, masterminded the victory from the sidelines, while Kasule and Sserwadda collected their maiden trophies on American soil. From the dusty pitches of Kampala to the bright lights of the United States, the trio’s journey is a testament to skill, determination, and belief.
The win not only adds a glittering chapter to Red Bulls II’s story but also shines a global spotlight on Uganda’s emerging football stars, signaling that the nation’s talent is capable of leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.
