By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda Christian University (UCU) will aim for a second Pepsi University Football League championship title this Saturday when they face Nkumba University at 3:00 PM at MTN Omondi Stadium in Kampala.
The Cardinals have enjoyed a remarkable 2023–24 campaign to reach the final match. They dominated their group stage, winning three, drawing twice and losing once in six matches, including big victories over Busitema University, Kumi University and Kampala International University.
In the knockout rounds, UCU showed their resilience. They faced a difficult quarterfinal against rival Makerere University, falling 2-1 in the first leg but redeeming themselves with a crucial 1-0 second-leg victory at home thanks to a goal from Isaac Ofoyrwoth.
They then defeated Makerere Business School 2-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals to reach the final after a one-all draw in Nakawa and a 1-0 win through Oforywoth in Mukono.
Their opponents, Nkumba University, have also had to battle to make their third final appearance. They shocked Kampala University 2-1 on aggregate to book their spot.
UCU and Nkumba have met twice previously in this competition, with UCU winning and coinciding with a draw with 2-0 and 0-0, respectively, in the 2022 edition. Last year, they played to a narrow 1-0 UCU victory in the University Football League. Both teams will be hoping to complete their dreams of a championship by winning on Saturday in what is sure to be an exciting final match.
With their strong performances all season long, UCU will be confident but know they cannot underestimate Nkumba’s threat. The “Beach Boys” will be determined to claim their first ever title. Fans are encouraged to come out and support their team at MTN Omondi Stadium for an unforgettable championship battle.
