Pepsi UFL: No Petition, And Absolutely the Loser is Out as Nkumba Breaks Eight Year’s Jinx of No Final Show
Pepsi University Football League
Semifinal two results:
Nkumba University 1-1 Kampala University [agg 2-1]
A draw at home was just enough for the Beach Boys, Nkumba University to progress to the final stage of the 11th edition of the Pepsi University Football League.
The two sides, Nkumba University and Kampala University shared spoils following a one all draw in the second leg encounter honored at Nkumba University grounds on Tuesday afternoon.
Kampala University first got the lead in the 35th minute of first half, thanks to classic finish from Odeke Joshua and the first stanza ended 1-0 in favor of the two time champions.
However, with only three minutes into second half, Balyawo Ishaque leveled the matters with a powerful header, he converted from the well calculated free kick from the left flank, squared in by Lubega Ismeal.
Kampala University at two occasions tried to reclaim it’s lead but Nkumba’s defense was smart enough to deny any attacking threats from the visitors.
Obwana John Andrew, arguably the best player for Nkumba University this season and their custodian asserted that they were ready and prepared for this game and that’s why they made it to the final for the first time since 2016.
“It has been awhile for us not reaching there but I thank my players that we worked together, the players have been training with love and zeal to see that we reach here and I hope we are going to win the trophy and it’s coming home. I thank the technical team and the University administration because they gave us all the support we needed.” Said Obwana John Andrew, Nkumba’s custodian.
Nkumba University won the first leg 1-0 and that goal advantage helped them to propel to the final.
The last time Nkumba University reached final in 2016, they lost it 3-2 against Kampala University but this time they will be facing another opponent in Uganda Christian University, the champions of 2019.
The final is slated to take place on 20th April, 2024 at Phillip Omondi Stadium.
Nkumba University list: Obwana John Andrew (GK), Opio Reagan, Lubega Ismeal, Kalule Lukman, Ssewankambo John Kennedy ©, Irivia Mamur, Musuga Isaac, Balyawo Ishaque,Kikoyo Aaron, Nsubuga Joel, Ssebadduka Kenneth
Substitutes: Okiring Samuel,Kizza Kassim,Nabil Iddi, Mukiibi Saad,Kavuma Abbey, Byaruhanga Timothy, Ssempijja Justus.
Coach: Sulaiman Bbosa
Kampala University list: Ozelle Brian (GK), Ssembatya Sharif, Nsubuga Benjamin, Saka Vincent,Kisa Yosia, Odeke Joshua, Lakomakech Bill, Lubanga Raymond, Ndase Tony, Wanume Gilbert, Kalema Nuhu
Substitutes: Ssekamanya Badiru GK,Muhindo Brian, Namono Collins , Ssenyonjo Nicolas,Mugabo Paul, Abbey Mulamba, Ssali Faisal, Kiwewa Raymond, Wabomba Emmanuel.
Coach: Vincent Tumusiime aka Titi Kamara