- Bugema Vs Muteesa 1 Royal – Bugema | 3PM
As Bugema University prepares to face Muteesa I Royal University in the Pepsi University Football League quarterfinal return leg today, head coach Medhi Nyanzi is determined to break his team’s quarterfinal curse.
The first leg, played on March 18 at Kirumba Grounds in Masaka City ended in a 1-1 draw with Muteesa’s Busuulwa Akaya opening the scoring in the 23rd minute before Bugema’s Abdul Nyenje salvaged a late 81st-minute equalizer.
Bugema has consistently performed well in the group stages, topping Group D with 13 points this season.
However, they have failed to progress past the quarterfinals for four consecutive seasons, a hurdle Nyanzi is desperate to overcome.
“We had a strong group stage performance. This season, we are determined to go beyond the quarterfinals, and I strongly believe we will achieve it. Our target is to win the competition,” Nyanzi asserted.
His squad boasts key players like Sulaiman Ssentongo, Arthur Jjombwe, Denis Kimuli, and Eric Sawa who will be crucial in today’s decisive match.
On the other hand, Muteesa I Royal University is writing its own history. In their debut season, they have become the first newcomers to reach the quarterfinals.
Head coach George William Ssengabi believes his team, despite being underdogs, has the potential to cause an upset.
“We have no pressure. This is our first season, and we have already made history. Now, we have the chance to go even further,” Ssengabi said.
Key players for Muteesa include captain Eddie Jjunju, Ali Lutwama, Patrick Busuulwa, Nicholas Ssenyonjo, and Geoffrey Sserugo, all of whom will be looking to make an impact.
With the aggregate score tied at 1-1, today’s match is a winner-takes-all showdown. Bugema University will look to capitalize on its home advantage and experience, while Muteesa I Royal University is eager to extend its dream run into the semifinals.
