- Kumi 1-0 Makerere
Kumi University edged closer to the top two in Group B of the University Football League with a vital 1-0 victory over Makerere University on Thursday evening.
A second-half header from Kisaale Omega secured the win, bringing Kumi within striking distance of the group’s leaders.
Kumi started the game on the front foot, creating an early golden opportunity just ten minutes in.
Alele Tom, played through by Muge after brilliant one-touch play, found himself one-on-one with Makerere’s goalkeeper Ssebiranda, but the shot-stopper was quick off his line to deny the hosts.
The home side continued to enjoy long spells of possession, testing Makerere’s backline. In the 20th minute, a smooth exchange between Omega Kisaale and Alele Tom allowed the latter a shooting chance from the edge of the box, but his effort flew over.
With temperatures soaring, the teams took a water break to regroup. Kumi kept pushing forward, with Muge coming close after 32 minutes, only to fire wide from the edge of the box following another fluid move.
Just before halftime, Odeke also tested Makerere’s defence with a long-range effort, but his strike narrowly missed the target, leaving the game goalless at the break.
The second half saw Kumi pick up where they left off. Alele surged forward and took an early shot ten minutes after the restart, but his effort went straight at Ssebiranda.
At the hour mark, Makerere finally had a moment of promise when Byaruhanga found space, but Euku made a crucial recovery tackle to keep the visitors at bay.
Kumi’s persistence finally paid off in the 64th minute. Okiror Charles delivered a precise ball into the box, and Kisaale Omega rose highest to nod past Ssebiranda, giving the hosts a well-deserved lead.
Despite the goal, Kumi remained on the attack. Okiror tried his luck inside the penalty area in the 70th minute, but his powerful shot was comfortably saved by Ssebiranda.
Makerere, desperate for an equalizer, had their best chance in the 80th minute when Ndungu’s strike was pushed out for a corner by goalkeeper Ajo. Agaba then connected with the resulting corner, but his header sailed over the bar.
With just five minutes left, Makerere nearly snatched an equalizer, but Amude Gabriel made a heroic goal-line clearance, ensuring Kumi held on for a crucial victory.
The win moves Kumi University to third place, just one point behind second-placed Makerere and two adrift of Group B leaders Ndejje.
