UCU crush Kabale 5-1 to boost quarterfinal hopes

Pepsi University Football League 
Thursday Result 
UCU 5 Kabale 1
Saturday, 3pm
Gulu v KIU 
Sunday, 3pm 
Muni v UMU 

Uganda Christian University (UCU) secured their first victory of the season in the Pepsi University Football League in spectacular fashion, defeating Kabale University 5-1 on Thursday in Mukono.

The 2019 champions delivered a dominant performance from start to finish, leaving no doubt about their superiority on the pitch.

UCU got off to a flying start, with Geoffrey Oyaka opening the scoring in just the second minute. Marvin Wambuga quickly added a second goal four minutes later, setting the stage for a commanding display.

Kabale University struggled to contain UCU’s relentless attack, and in the 35th minute, Harry Abiti unleashed a stunning long-range volley to make it 3-0, sending the home crowd into raptures.

The hosts carried their momentum into the second half, with Abiti completing his brace in the 67th minute. He rose to meet a perfectly delivered cross from Isaac Apenyo, heading home to extend UCU’s lead to 4-0. Kabale’s defensive woes continued as a poor clearance allowed Peter Kyomuhendo to capitalize and slot in UCU’s fifth goal.

Kabale managed to salvage some pride in the 83rd minute when Jovin Agaba converted a penalty after Wambuga fouled Mark Natwijuka in the box, but it was little more than a consolation.

The emphatic win lifted UCU to second place in Group C with five points, just two behind leaders St. Lawrence University (SLAU). YMCA, UCU’s next opponents, are also on five points but trail on goal difference, while Kabale remains at the bottom of the group with four points. With each team having played four matches, only the group winner will advance to the quarterfinals.

Speaking after the match, Harry Abiti expressed optimism about UCU’s chances of progressing beyond the group stage and making another deep run in the tournament. Last year, UCU finished as runners-up to Nkumba University, and Abiti believes the team is finding its rhythm after a slow start to the season.

"We didn’t begin the season strongly due to changes in the squad after several experienced players graduated. However, under Coach Jimmy Kintu’s guidance, we’ve been integrating new players and building better chemistry. We’re determined to fight our way out of the group," Abiti said.

The action continues tomorrow in Group D, where Gulu University will host Kampala International University (KIU) in Gulu City. As the competition heats up, UCU will look to build on their momentum and stake their claim as serious contenders for the title.