Pepsi UFL: Ten-Man Kampala University Hold Nerve for Crucial Away Goal at Bugema

By Kayiira Jackson 

Kampala University showed resilience and tactical discipline to secure a vital 1-1 draw against Bugema University in the first leg of their Pepsi University Football League quarterfinal clash on Tuesday afternoon.

Heading into the encounter, Kampala University were keen to avoid a repeat of last season’s setback, where they fell 2-1 to the same opponents in the first leg. This time, they made an early statement, taking the lead in the 20th minute through Nsubuga Gideon, who calmly converted from the spot after Raymond Kiweewa was brought down in the area.

Played on a difficult, bumpy surface, the match offered little room for Kampala University’s usual passing rhythm, with long balls and aerial duels dominating proceedings.

Bugema University pushed for a response before the break, with Jjumbwe Arthur coming close, only to be denied by a stunning save from goalkeeper Wafula David, ensuring the visitors carried a slender lead into halftime.

The game took a dramatic turn nine minutes into the second half when Kampala University were reduced to ten men. Owawu Simon Peter received a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Mwandha Jonah, handing the hosts a numerical advantage.

Bugema capitalized on the extra man, piling pressure on the visitors and eventually finding the equalizer in the 75th minute. Mwandha Jonah unleashed a thunderous strike to level the score and ignite the home crowd.

Despite the setback, Kampala University tightened their defense and held firm under sustained pressure, ensuring they left Bugema with a valuable away goal ahead of the return leg.

Attention now shifts to Wednesday’s second quarterfinal, where three-time champions Uganda Martyrs University will host Muteesa I Royal University in a highly anticipated Masaka Road derby at Nkozi.