Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Busitema University in a University Football League clash at IUIU Mbale Campus on Thursday evening.
The crucial win saw IUIU move to the top of Group A, overtaking defending champions Nkumba University.
The decisive moment came just 11 minutes into the game when Mugambe Faraji pounced on a powerful rebound off Busitema goalkeeper Ongu Emmanuel to give the hosts an early lead.
Busitema had a bright start, creating chances down the right, with Okite Christopher firing a volley just wide in the 8th minute.
Seven minutes after the goal, IUIU had another great opportunity on the counter, but Shafiki Kawooya failed to convert from close range.
Busitema goalkeeper Ongu Emmanuel kept his team in the game with a superb save in the 25th minute, denying Kawooya’s effort from close range.
Five minutes later, Waduuma Derrick sent a header over the bar after a well placed cross from Owino Shannon.
IUIU kept pushing, but Mumali Faisal’s attempt from the edge of the box was blocked and cleared as the first half ended 1-0 in favor of the hosts.
Three minutes after the restart, IUIU’s Mumali Faisal tested the keeper, but Ongu Emmanuel was equal to the shot.
Busitema responded in the 55th minute, with Shannon Owino setting up Waduuma, whose effort was well saved by Musasizi Sadat.
At the 60-minute mark, Busitema intensified their search for an equalizer, but Dinya Joseph’s volley drifted just wide.
The visitors had one final chance five minutes from time, but Owino’s cross to the far post found no one to convert, sealing the victory for IUIU.
The 1-0 win propelled IUIU to the top of Group A with 11 points from 5 games, while Nkumba University dropped to second with 10 points from an equal number of matches.
