London – Zanzibar emerged victorious at the African Nations Cup UK (ANCUK) 2025, clinching the championship title after a nail-biting penalty shootout win over Gambia.
The final, held at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Dagenham, London, ended in a goalless draw before Zanzibar triumphed 4-2 on penalties, sealing their status as champions of this year’s prestigious diaspora football tournament.
The competition, held from June 21–22, brought together teams representing African nations in a spirited celebration of football, culture, and unity across the diaspora. Teams battled fiercely in both group and knockout stages, delivering thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.
Tournament Highlights:
Uganda fell to Benin 1-3 in the group stage and later to Ghana 0-2, missing out on a semi-final spot.
Madagascar dominated Benin with a 5-0 thrashing, but later lost 0-3 to Gambia in the semi-finals.
Zanzibar edged past Ghana after a 0-0 stalemate, winning 4-2 on penalties to book their place in the final.
In the youth category, Zimbabwe displayed exceptional talent, defeating Somaliland 4-1 to claim the youth championship title.
In a tournament that featured not only top-tier football but also vibrant cultural expressions, Equity Bank Uganda stood out as the main sponsor and proud partner of Team Uganda. The Bank’s sponsorship of ANCUK 2025 underlined its commitment to fostering cross-border relationships and empowering African communities within the diaspora.
“We are proud to be the main partner of the African Nations Cup UK 2025. Football unites us, and this partnership underscores our continued dedication to Africa’s socio-economic transformation,” said Gift Shoko, Managing Director of Equity Bank Uganda. “It aligns with our African Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), which seeks to accelerate the continent’s recovery and growth post-COVID-19.”
The Bank leveraged the event to showcase its diaspora banking solutions, promote investment opportunities in Uganda, and engage with East Africans living abroad. On-site activations during the tournament allowed the diaspora community to explore tailored financial services, investment options, and reconnect with home through business and cultural exchange.
Equity Bank Uganda’s continued investment in diaspora events—including past engagements in Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the US—has played a pivotal role in empowering Ugandans abroad through financial literacy, bespoke banking, and community support.
The African Nations Cup UK has grown into a premier platform that blends competition with celebration, pride with progress. As Zanzibar hoisted the championship trophy and Zimbabwe’s youth team earned top honours, the tournament closed on a high note, once again proving the power of football to unite, inspire, and uplift the African spirit globally.
