Acholi Province managed a narrow 2-1 win over Buganda Province in the first leg of their FUFA Drum encounter.
Norman Ogik and Francis Onekalit scored for the home side while Frank Ssebufu netted for the visitors at Boma Grounds in Kitigum district.
Utility player Fred Agandu of the Acholi Province was named the Nile Special Man of the Match.
The first edition winners, Buganda will host the defending champions – Acholi, in the return leg next week and the winner on aggregate will progress to the semifinals.