It was the end of a remarkable journey for non-league side Football Classroom as they bowed out of the 51st edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup at the Round of 64.
The Kampala-based side, who had already defied expectations by making it this far, were eliminated by FUFA Big League side Buhimba United Saints following a 2-1 defeat at the YES Centre in Nsambya on Saturday.
The match began with both teams showing caution, wary of each other’s attacking threats.
There was little to separate the two sides in the early exchanges, as neither was able to break the deadlock before the hour mark.
It was clear both sides were sizing each other up, with Football Classroom showing impressive resilience despite their non-league status.
In the 33rd minute, Buhimba United Saints’ Davis Kakaire had a chance to put his team ahead, heading directly at Football Classroom goalkeeper Godwin Buule, who quickly reacted and kept the scoreline level.
Despite being underdogs, the hosts were holding their own, showing admirable defensive discipline and composure.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams heading to the break without having created clear-cut chances to score.
Football Classroom’s defensive structure was particularly commendable as they dealt with the pressure from a higher-division team.
After the restart, it didn’t take long for the game to come alive. Just three minutes into the second half, a moment of misfortune for Buhimba United Saints handed Football Classroom the lead.
A failure to clear the ball in their box saw the ball rattle the crossbar, but unfortunately for the visitors, it deflected off their goalkeeper and into their own net.
Football Classroom were ahead 1-0, and it seemed like the fairytale run might continue.
However, Buhimba quickly responded. Nine minutes after conceding, Job Owori equalized for the visitors, firing in from inside the box to level matters at 1-1.
It was clear the Big League side wasn’t ready to let the underdogs have it all their way.
With the match nearing the hour mark, Buhimba took the lead through a beautifully executed header by Lucas Mola, putting them ahead 2-1.
The hosts, who had shown so much promise earlier in the game, now found themselves trailing, and despite some late efforts, they were unable to find an equalizer.
Football Classroom had a golden opportunity to level the score in the dying moments of the match.
Four minutes before full time, a tame shot from the visitors was spilt by Buhimba goalkeeper Moses Ayebale, but Football Classroom’s forward fired the rebound over the bar, leaving their hopes of a comeback dashed.
In added time, Football Classroom had one final chance to salvage a draw, with a well-placed freekick that looked destined for the back of the net.
However, a brilliant save from Ayebale denied them, summing up a disappointing afternoon for the non-league side.
While Football Classroom’s dream run came to an end, they can be proud of their performance in the competition.
Their display against Buhimba United Saints showed that, despite being a lower-division side, they could stand toe to toe with higher-tier teams, leaving a lasting impression on the competition.
Meanwhile, other games on the day saw Kaaro Karungi edge Karuguuza United 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, while Busia Young Stars also triumphed in a penalty shootout over Big League side Kiyinda Boys.
In other results, Odramachako defeated Paidha Black Angels 2-0, and Kuluva Rainbow also secured a 2-0 win against MYDA FC.
Saturday, January 25 | Round of 64 Results
- Football Classroom 1-2 Buhimba United Saints
- Busia Young Stars (5) 1-1 (4) Kiyinda Boys
- Karuguuza (4) 1-1 (5) Kaaro Karungi
- Odramachako 2-0 Paidha Black Angels
- Kuluva Rainbow 2-0 MYDA
The teams that have so far advanced to the Round of 32 include; Kaaro Karungi, Busia Young Stars, Odramachako, Kuluva Rainbow, KCCA FC, Mabira TC, Booma FC, Rwenzori Lions, Total FC, NEC FC, Packwach Youngstars FC, Vipers SC, Express FC, BUL FC, Kitara FC, Gaddafi FC, Soltilo Bright Stars, Wakiso Giants, URA FC, Lugazi FC, UPDF FC, Maroons FC, CATDA FC, Mbarara City FC, Police FC, Simba FC, Kataka FC, and SC Villa.
As the competition progresses, the Stanbic Uganda Cup continues to serve as not just a platform for chasing trophies but also an opportunity to nurture young talent, with several non-league and underdog teams showcasing their potential.
Football Classroom’s run may have ended, but their journey in this year’s Uganda Cup will surely remain a source of inspiration for many.
