Ugandan football is in mourning following the death of SC Villa captain David Owori, who died on Wednesday after being attacked by unknown assailants in Kampala. He was 27.

The midfielder was reportedly ambushed on Tuesday evening as he approached his home in Makindye, Kampala. He was rushed to Case Clinic while still conscious, but his condition deteriorated overnight, and he succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday morning.

"It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of our captain, David Owori, who had been receiving treatment at Case Clinic following an attack by suspected thugs. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace, Captain," SC Villa said in a statement.

The club described Owori as an outstanding leader whose death is a devastating loss to both SC Villa and Ugandan football. It also called on security agencies to ensure those responsible are brought to justice, saying the "senseless act" must not go unpunished.

Owori's death has sent shockwaves through Uganda's football community, with players, fans and football officials paying tribute to the midfielder while calling for justice and improved security.

A key figure for SC Villa, Owori captained the record Ugandan champions and recently signed a contract extension that would have kept him at the club until January 2027.

He also represented the Uganda national team, featuring during the Cranes' 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

His final appearance came on August 1, when he captained SC Villa in a 1-1 draw against Maroons FC in the first leg of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Super 8 quarter-finals.