Waisana's spectacular corner seals IUIU's 1-0 win over Metropolitan

Eric Waisana scored a spectacular direct corner kick as Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) edged Pepsi University Football League (UFL) debutants Metropolitan International University 1-0 in their opening match of the 2026/27 campaign on Thursday at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

Waisana, making his UFL debut, curled a teasing corner kick into the penalty area in the 47th minute.

The delivery evaded everyone in the box before finding the back of the net to hand the Mbale-based institution all three points in memorable fashion.

The goal, an Olympic goal (scored directly from a corner kick), proved the difference in a closely contested encounter in which clear-cut scoring opportunities were limited.

IUIU's Eric Waisana (right) celebrates his goal against Metrpolitan International University with teammates during a University Football League at the Hamz Stadium, November 4, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Despite fielding a largely new-look squad, IUIU looked the more composed side, with the few players retained from last season, including captain Sudaisi Masogoi, Faraj Mugambe and Jimmy Mpande, providing valuable guidance to their less experienced teammates.

Both teams were defensively disciplined, but IUIU showed greater confidence on the ball and eventually found the breakthrough to begin their campaign with maximum points.

IUIU captain Masogoi described the away victory as a major confidence boost, particularly after their struggles to collect points on the road last season contributed to their failure to reach the quarter-finals.

IUIU's Eric Waisana celebrates his goal against Metrpolitan International University during a University Football League at the Hamz Stadium, November 4, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“It was a difficult game. We struggled in the first half but remained focused, believing that a goal would come. Thankfully, we got it and managed to win,” said Masogoi.

“Starting with an away win is a big motivation for us because last season we struggled to win away matches, and it contributed to our elimination from the competition,” he added.

Meanwhile, Metropolitan coach Mubarak Ssali admitted that his players lacked the experience and composure of their opponents but remained encouraged by aspects of their performance.

Ssali acknowledged that mistakes proved costly against a more organised IUIU side but believes his team can learn from the defeat ahead of Sunday's encounter against Uganda Martyrs University (UMU).

“It is a learning experience for us. It is true we made some mistakes that cost us the game. Credit to our opponents; they were more experienced and organised,” said Ssali.

“We are going to use today's lessons to prepare better for our next game,” he added.

A total of 31 universities are competing in this season's tournament. The top two teams from each of the three groups, alongside the two best third-placed sides, will advance to the quarter-finals.

Pepsi University Football League

Thursday Result

Metropolitan 0 IUIU 1

Friday, 3pm

ISBAT v Bugema

Saturday

World Mission v Soroti

Sunday

Metropolitan v UMU