Pepsi UFL: Scientists Fail to Find Nsubuga, Kimera’s Cure as Kampala University Edge MUST

By Kayiira Jackson 

Kampala University staged a spirited comeback to defeat Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) 2-1 in a hard-fought Pepsi University Football League encounter honored on Thursday in Mbarara.

The visitors recovered from an early setback to secure three vital points, maintaining their strong start to the campaign.

MUST drew first blood in the 18th minute when Ainamani Richman fired home with a strike that left Kampala University custodian Wafula David with little chance.

The hosts nearly doubled their advantage in the 40th minute after Bigirwa Isaiah rose unmarked to meet a cross, but his free header sailed wide of the target. Kampala University also came close to leveling matters before the break when Mulwana Joel unleashed a long-range effort three minutes to halftime, only to see his strike crash against the crossbar.

The two-time league champions returned from the break with renewed urgency. Kampala University made a double substitution before the start of the second half, introducing Wanume Gilbert and Kimera Raymond for Azabo Kevin and Muloki Mubarak respectively — a move that quickly changed the tempo of the game.

Eight minutes into the second half, Kampala University earned a corner kick from the left flank. Nsubuga Gideon stepped up and delivered a curling effort that flew directly into the net to level the match. It was a memorable debut goal for Gideon.

Kampala University continued to pile pressure and introduced midfield sensation Kimera Joseph in the 50th minute for Ebong Mark. The talented midfielder quickly asserted his influence, dictating play and controlling the tempo in the middle of the park.

His impact proved decisive late in the game. In the 88th minute, Kimera Joseph latched onto a well-timed assist from Wanume Gilbert before swerving the ball into the back of the net with a brilliant finish to seal the comeback victory.

The win moves Kampala University to 10 points from four matches, keeping them top of Group A. Meanwhile, MUST registered their second defeat of the season and remain fourth with four points.

Action in the Pepsi University Football League continues on Friday when three-time champions Uganda Martyrs University host Mountains of the Moon University in Nkozi.

MUST Lineup

Tukwatanise Gad (GK), Ronald Atuhairwe, Atuhaire Criscent, Kevin Ayebare, Ahikiriza Shebamu, Kategaya Jonathan, Shafic Bekunda, Aturira Harold, Ainamani Richman, Bigirwa Isaiah, Marvin Ssebaggala.

Substitutes: Isaac Mugisha (GK), Enerst Musinguzi, Okongo Moses, Kalema Joseph Benjamin Aineomuchunguzi, Ainemugisha Koleb, Wako Doka Givens.

Coach: Kyagambidwa M. K

Kampala University Lineup

Wafula David (GK) ©, Mulwana Joel, Owawu Simon Peter, Epaja James, Nsubuga Benjamin, Nsubuga Gideon, Ebong Mark, Okema David, Ayebare Samuel, Muloki Mubarak, Azabo Kevin.

Substitutes: Kizito Adiri, Mohammad Okogeu, Opio Mark, Kimera Joseph, Kiwewa Raymond, Wanume Gilbert, Abdul Kiwana.

Team Manager: Vicent Tumusiime.