By Michael Ainomugisha
2-1
The UCU Cardinals delivered a determined performance on March 3, 2025, securing a 2-1 victory over YMCA at the UCU Grounds in Mukono.
A for the Cardinals puts the team to the top of Group C in the University Football League (UFL) with eight points, keeping their qualification hopes alive ahead of their final group-stage match against St. Lawrence University.
Despite an early setback when YMCA’s Hakim Kanabi capitalised on a defensive error in the 3rd minute, the Cardinals showed resilience. Harry Abiti responded in the 27th minute with a well-placed header finish, after a brilliant delivery from Geoffrey Oyaka.
Just three minutes later, assistant captain Patrick Ogola put UCU ahead with a decisive penalty goal after YMCA defender caught the ball in the box.
UCU continued to press for more goals, but YMCA’s goalkeeper made crucial saves, including a double stop in the 43rd minute and a key block to deny Kyomuhendo Peter in the 81st minute.
In the second half, the Cardinals made strategic changes, bringing on Bananywa Najib in the 68th minute and Haruna Nyanzi in the 74th minute to replace Jordan Ariaka and Allan Opio respectively as a way to strengthen the team’s control of the game.
Head coach Jimmy Kintu praised the team’s efforts, highlighting their composure and determination:
“We expected a tough game, and conceding early made it even harder. However, the team stayed focused, knowing that securing three points was the priority. We managed the game well and took advantage of our chances, though we need to improve our finishing to be more clinical in upcoming matches.”
With just one match remaining in the group stage, the UCU Cardinals are now in a strong position. The team will shift focus to their crucial fixture against St. Lawrence University in Kavule, where they will look to secure their place in the knockout rounds.
#WeAreTheCardinals #UFL2025