St. Lawrence University (SLAU) secured their place in the 2024/25 University Football League quarterfinals after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Uganda Christian University (UCU) on Thursday evening at Kavule.
The result saw SLAU top Group C with 10 points, two ahead of UCU, ensuring their progression into the knockout rounds.
The match began at a high tempo, with SLAU showing early intent. Just 10 minutes into the game, Matege Innocent surged into UCU’s box but saw his effort blocked by Wambunga Marvin Praise. Ziraba pounced on the loose ball but fired his shot over the bar.
UCU responded five minutes later, pressing for an early goal, but SLAU’s goalkeeper, Mwidu Elton, produced a fine save to deny them. The hosts continued to push forward, winning a corner that ultimately led to nothing.
By the 25th minute, SLAU dominated possession, with Matege once again testing the UCU goalkeeper from distance.
However, it wasn’t until first-half stoppage time that the deadlock was finally broken. Haruna Nyanzi unleashed a thunderbolt at the near post, giving SLAU a well-deserved 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
SLAU resumed the second half on the front foot, creating early chances through Osuman Arafat and Kalanda Julius, both of whom came close but failed to convert.
At the hour mark, UCU ramped up their efforts to get back into the game. Their persistence paid off three minutes later when Mugerwa Lawrence calmly converted a penalty, bringing the score level at 1-1.
However, SLAU responded with determination. In the 70th minute, Kembo Arafat rose highest to meet a Ziraba cross, powering a header past Mwidu to restore the visitors’ lead at 2-1.
With time running out, UCU threw everything forward, desperately seeking an equalizer that would secure their quarterfinal spot. But SLAU’s defence stood firm, holding on to claim a crucial victory.
With this result, SLAU finished as Group C winners and joined five other teams in the quarterfinals.
The other group game saw YMCA put three past Kabale with a brace from Lugya Ashiraf and the other goal by Kisseka John.
The 2024/25 Quarterfinal Draw has been finalized, with matches set to be played over two legs.
The first legs will take place between March 18-22, while the return legs will be held from March 24-28.
Quarterfinal Fixtures:
- Muteesa I vs Bugema
- St. Lawrence vs Winner B
- KU vs IUIU
- 2nd Best vs Uganda Martyrs
