Pepsi University Football League:Tech Boys Break the Curse, ISBAT Finally Win at Home

By: Lawrence Mubiru| Kayiira Jackson

ISBAT University finally ended their long wait for a home victory with a commanding 3–1 triumph over Busitema University in the Pepsi University Football League on Friday afternoon at the Phillip Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.

After several near misses in recent seasons, the “Tech Boys” produced a spirited and tactical masterclass to register their first-ever home win in the competition — a moment that will be etched in the university’s football history.

Winger Katende Bahira was the star of the night, scoring a sensational brace that electrified the ISBAT fans and showcased his dazzling pace and composure in front of goal.

The hosts broke the deadlock in the 41st minute after Daniel Akantambira’s clever cutback from the right flank found Katende unmarked inside the box. The winger made no mistake, rifling the ball into the roof of the net to send the crowd into raptures.

ISBAT maintained their dominance into the second half despite a strong response from the “Baboons.” Their resilience was rewarded again on 59 minutes when substitute Brian Obai weaved through Busitema’s defense before setting up Katende, who calmly tapped in his second goal of the evening.

Captain Allan Onekgiu, nicknamed “The Midfield Bulldog,” put the icing on the cake with a stunning solo effort in the 83rd minute, bulldozing his way past defenders before slotting home to seal a memorable win for the home side.

Busitema managed a late consolation through Oola Gerald in the 87th minute after ISBAT’s goalkeeper fumbled a free kick from Awasi Emmanuel, allowing Gerald to tuck in the rebound.

After the game, Busitema head coach Musisi Abdunoor attributed the loss to his team’s lack of experience on artificial turf, saying it played a key role in their struggles.

“The lack of familiarity with artificial turf affected our rhythm, but the boys played well. We wll take this as a lesson and come back stronger,” Musisi said.

For ISBAT, the result was a culmination of teamwork, discipline, and steady improvement. Head coach Ssekiziyivu Juma praised his side for their persistence and commitment.

“This win is a product of collective effort. The players have shown great improvement, especially in the attacking department. We have been working on execution, and today it paid off,” Ssekiziyivu noted.

The victory lifts ISBAT to fifth place in their group, marking a huge morale boost as they continue their UFL campaign. It is also their second straight win against Busitema, following a 4–0 triumph last season in Busitema.

The Pepsi University Football League will take a short break over the weekend and resume on Tuesday when IUEA hosts Bugema University in Kansanga.