Pepsi UFL: Goalless but Glorious, The Green Eagles Fly Above Bugema’s Forest as KU Storm Semis
Flying Eagles Soar into Semis as Kampala University Edge Bugema on Away Goals
By Kayiira Jackson
Kampala University secured a hard-fought place in the semifinals of the Pepsi University Football League after eliminating Bugema University on the away goals rule in a tense goalless draw on Monday at FUFA Stadium Kadiba in Mengo.
The quarterfinal second leg ended 0-0, but the aggregate score stood at 1-1 following the first leg in Bugema. Kampala University progressed courtesy of their crucial away goal, avenging last season’s elimination at the same stage against the same opponents.
Dubbed the “Flying Eagles,” Kampala University dominated large spells of the encounter, showcasing fluid passing, confident dribbling, and superior possession from the opening minutes. Despite their control, they struggled to find the decisive finish.
Mark Ebong was at the heart of the hosts’ attacking play, repeatedly unlocking Bugema’s midfield with clever movement and incisive passes. He nearly created the opener in the 21st minute, but Wanuume Gilbert and Kiweewa Raymond failed to connect with his inviting delivery.
Moments later, another sweeping move saw Ebong pick out Nsubuga in space, only for the latter to blaze his effort over the bar. Wanuume came closest before the break, unleashing a powerful strike that was brilliantly kept out by Bugema goalkeeper Kalungi.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Kampala University pushing forward while Bugema remained resilient at the back. Ebong continued to pull the strings, setting up Wanuume once again, but Nyakusinga intervened with a timely clearance.
As the clock ticked down, Kampala University shifted focus to protecting their aggregate advantage. Bugema pressed late on, but the hosts held firm, defending resolutely to preserve the goalless draw that ultimately sealed their progression.
The result sees Kampala University become the first team to book a semifinal slot as they continue their pursuit of a third league title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2013 and 2016.
Attention now turns to Tuesday’s action, where Muteesa I Royal University will host Uganda Martyrs University in a highly anticipated Masaka Road derby. Uganda Martyrs carry a 2-1 advantage from the first leg and will be aiming to complete the job and join Kampala University in the semifinals.