University Football League | 2nd Leg QF
- IUIU (2) 1-0 (1 )KU
In a tense and tightly contested quarterfinal clash, Tamubula Ismael emerged as the hero, guiding Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) to the University Football League (UFL) semifinals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kampala University (KU) in Mbale on Thursday evening.
Having drawn the first leg 1-1 in Nsambya, IUIU knew they needed to make their home advantage count and they did, thanks to Tamubula, who broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, latching onto a well-delivered cross from Mumali Faisal. With the KU defense caught off guard, Tamubula made no mistake, tapping into an empty net and sending the home crowd into celebration.
From that moment on, both teams battled relentlessly. KU, desperate to find an equalizer, came close in the 20th minute when Wanuume Gilbert whipped in a dangerous cross, only for IUIU’s Shikanga to make a crucial interception.
IUIU nearly doubled their lead moments later when Tamubula’s acrobatic effort off an Onongo header was spectacularly saved by KU goalkeeper Ozelle Brian.
As tensions rose, KU appealed for a penalty at the half-hour mark, but the referee waved away their claims. IUIU, determined to protect their slim lead, won most of the 50/50 duels and headed into halftime still ahead.
The second half saw KU ramp up their attacks. Kisa and Wanuume combined beautifully on the edge of the box in the 60th minute, but Kisa’s strike soared over the crossbar.
In the 72nd minute, KU came agonizingly close when Mulamba sent in a brilliant cross but Wanuume missed the connection by inches at the far post.
A swift counterattack from IUIU nearly put the game beyond doubt but Ozelle once again denied Faisal from adding a second goal.
With KU throwing everything forward, Mwandha Isaac stood strong in IUIU’s goal, keeping out Wanuume’s late effort and preserving his side’s advantage.
Despite relentless attacks from KU in the dying minutes, IUIU’s defense held firm, clearing their lines and ensuring their place in the UFL semifinals.
With Uganda Martyrs University and St. Lawrence University already through, IUIU became the third team to book their semifinal spot.
The final slot now depends on the pending verdict between Bugema University and Muteesa I Royal University.
