Ndejje knock Makerere out of the University Football League

Pepsi University Football League

 
Thursday Results 
Ndejje 2 Makerere 1
Kumi 1 King Ceasor 0

Clement Ebasu emerged as the hero for Ndejje University, scoring the decisive goal in a tense 2-1 victory over Makerere University on Thursday to seal qualification for the quarterfinals of the Pepsi University Football League.

The Group E decider, played on Thursday at the Arena of Vision in Luwero District lived up to its billing with drama both on and off the pitch.

Facing a must-win situation, Ndejje made a bright start and took the lead in the first half through Joel Olupot, who calmly finished Davis Musinguzi's precise through ball to give the hosts a deserved advantage.

However, Makerere who needed only a draw to progress responded early in the second half. Male Musa levelled matters in the 52nd minute with a controversial free-kick that struck the crossbar before bouncing down the goal line. Goalkeeper Fred Onen gathered the ball, but after consultation, centre referee Ibrahim Miiro and his assistant Ivan Lubwama awarded the goal.

The decision sparked furious protests from Ndejje players and fans, who insisted the ball had not crossed the line. Tensions flared, and the atmosphere around the ground turned hostile, with home supporters accusing the officials of biased officiating.

Amid the chaos, Ndejje regained their composure and found the all-important winner in the 71st minute. Ambrose Anyaka delivered a pinpoint corner, which towering defender Ebasu powered home with a commanding header, sending the home crowd into wild celebration.

The match, however, was repeatedly interrupted. A lengthy stoppage saw goalkeeper Onen receive treatment following a heavy collision with Makerere’s Anthlem Agaba, while further delays occurred after referees alleged they had been assaulted by sections of the Ndejje supporters during goal celebrations.

A massive 15 minutes of added time set up a nervy finale, with Makerere throwing everything forward in search of an equaliser. Ndejje, however, stood firm, defending resolutely to preserve their slender lead.

There were further protests from both the Ndejje bench and fans over the length of added time, with the referee eventually bringing the game to an end beyond the indicated minutes.

The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among Ndejje players and supporters, while Makerere players were left crestfallen after narrowly missing out on qualification for a second consecutive season.

The result saw Ndejje finish top of Group E with 11 points, edging Kumi University on goal difference after the latter also reached 11 points following a 1-0 win over King Ceasor University. Makerere settled for third place with nine points and were eliminated.

Kumi University progressed as one of the best second-placed teams, marking a historic first qualification to the knockout stage.

The quarterfinal lineup is now confirmed, with Ndejje University, Kumi University, Bugema University, YMCA Comprehensive Institute, Muteesa I Royal University, St. Lawrence University, Kampala University, and defending champions Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi all advancing.