Pepsi University Football League quarter-finals
UCU 1-0 MAKERERE
Aggregate (UCU 2-2 MAKERERE)
Mukono, (UG):- Uganda Christian University (UCU) scripted history by becoming the first university to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the prestigious University Football League (UFL) 2023/24 after humbling Makerere University at the varsity sports grounds in Mukono.
Facing off against arch-rivals Makerere, the match was brimming with anticipation and excitement as both teams battled fiercely for a coveted spot in the next round.
The second leg encounter kicked off amidst an electric atmosphere, with fans from both institutions filling the stands to cheer on their respective teams.
With Makerere holding a narrow 2-1 advantage on aggregate, UCU knew they needed a strong performance to turn the tie in their favour.
The early exchanges saw both sides probing for openings, but it was UCU who looked the more threatening in attack.
In the 15th minute, midfielder Oceng Ivan delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, only for Sadat Kasaga’s header to narrowly miss the target, much to the relief of the Makerere defence.
As the first half progressed, UCU continued to press forward in search of the crucial opening goal.
Despite their concerted efforts, the teams headed into the halftime break deadlocked at 0-0, setting the stage for a tense second half.
The breakthrough finally came in the 48th minute, courtesy of a clinical finish from UCU’s Isaac Ofoywroth.
Seizing on a defensive lapse from Makerere, Ofoywroth unleashed a precise strike that nestled into the back of the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.
With time running out, Makerere rallied in search of an equalizer, but UCU’s defence held firm under pressure.
In the dying moments of the game, UCU came agonizingly close to doubling their lead, with Peter Kyomuhendo forcing a superb save from the Makerere goalkeeper.
As the final whistle blew, UCU emerged victorious with a hard-fought 1-0 win, levelling the aggregate score at 2-2.
With the away goals rule tipping the scales in their favour, UCU secured their passage to the semi-finals amid scenes of jubilation and celebration among players and fans alike.
For UCU, the historic triumph marks a significant milestone in their UFL campaign, signalling their intent to challenge for the ultimate prize.
As they prepare to face their next opponents in the semi-finals, UCU will be buoyed by the belief and momentum gained from their memorable victory over Makerere University.
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