2026 Uganda Cup | R32 | Thursday February 26
- Maroons 1-0 Kumi United
Odipio Stunner Sends Maroons Into Last 16 Norman Odipio’s moment of brilliance was enough as Maroons FC edged Kumi United 1-0 to reach the Round of 16 of the 52nd Plascon Co-sponsored Uganda Cup on Thursday evening in Luzira.
At the lakeside Maroons Stadium, the Prison Warders had to work hard against determined lower-division opponents.
Maroons controlled possession for long spells but struggled to create clear chances, while Kumi United stayed compact and looked dangerous on the counter.
The breakthrough came 11 minutes after the restart. Spotting goalkeeper Joseph Roger off his line, Odipio struck from well over 35 yards.
His effort sailed through the air and dipped into the net, leaving the goalkeeper stranded. It was a goal worthy of deciding a tight cup tie.
Maroons searched for a second goal to ease the tension. Brian Nkuubi Ssemakula and Dickson Niwamanya both came close, but Kumi defended bravely to stay in the contest.
The visitors also threatened. Derrick Ogwang and Mustapha Oyita had chances to level, but Maroons’ defence held firm to protect the slender lead.
At the final whistle, relief swept across Luzira. It was not a dominant display, but it was enough to send Maroons through.
Elsewhere, NEC FC knocked out fellow Uganda Premier League side UPDF FC with a 2-0 win at Bombo Military Barracks Stadium.
Joseph Dhata scored twice in the first half to guide Badru Kaddu Mukasa’s men into the next round.
They now join holders Vipers SC, Express FC, SC Villa, Kitara FC, KCCA FC, URA FC, Onduparaka FC and Iganga United among the teams in the Round of 16.
With a CAF Confederation Cup place on offer for the eventual winners, this year’s Stanbic Uganda Cup is gathering momentum.
