2025/26 University Football League | Wednesday March 18
- Uganda Christian University 2-1 Islamic University in Uganda
Uganda Christian University (UCU) kept their University Football League hopes already shun despite a 2-1 win over Islamic University in Uganda in Mukono, but the bigger story in Group E now centers on Makerere University, Ndejje University and Kumi University as the race for qualification tightens.
UCU came into the match needing a result for pride and showed intent from the start. Their pressure paid off early when Harry Abiti controlled Najib Bananywa’s cross and finished calmly in the 9th minute to give the hosts the lead.
The Cardinals stayed on top but couldn’t add a second before the break, despite creating several openings. After halftime, they struck again. Isaac Ofoywroth timed his run well to meet Bananywa’s through ball and made it 2-0 just two minutes into the second half.
Bananywa nearly got on the scoresheet himself, hitting the post from distance, as UCU pushed to seal the game.
But IUIU responded in the 71st minute when Rodgers Kiggundu headed in from Emmanuel Shinkanga’s free kick to reduce the deficit.
UCU held on through late pressure to secure the win, moving to seven points. However, their chances remain slim.
Attention now shifts to the top of the group. Makerere University lead with nine points, while Ndejje University and Kumi University sit just behind on eight.
With UCU unlikely to break into the top, qualification is now a straight fight between those three sides.
Kumi University will host King Ceasor University, while Ndejje University face Makerere University in what could decide the group.
With the quarterfinal draw set for March 20, the final round of Group E promises everything, pressure, tension, and no room for mistakes to attain the two available spots.
