By 
University Football League Result: UNIK 1-2 IUEA
The International University of East Africa (IUEA) demonstrated determination and character as they overturned an early deficit to secure a 2-1 victory over the University of Kisubi (UNIK) in a gripping Group E clash at Kisubi University in Entebbe on Thursday evening.
Early Setback for IUEA
The match began on a dramatic note as UNIK took advantage of an early defensive lapse in the 9th minute. Goalkeeper Okello Charles failed to deal with a seemingly harmless cross from Lumu, allowing the ball to fall directly to Bukenya Peter, who made no mistake in slotting it home. The early goal sent the home crowd into celebration, sensing a potential upset.
IUEA responded quickly, with Cyprian Okello nearly leveling the score in the 19th minute. He linked up with Bob Bayiga, who cut inside brilliantly before firing a shot just over the crossbar. Moments later, Kamya attempted a long-range effort, but it drifted narrowly wide, leaving the visitors frustrated in their pursuit of an equalizer.
IUEA Finds a Way Back
As the first half progressed, IUEA continued to press for a breakthrough. Sebunya Sharif made a dangerous run down the left flank and found Okello Cyprian, who came agonizingly close but shot wide.
On the defensive end, IUEA held firm, with Bakitawale blocking a promising UNIK effort and Kizito Amos making a crucial intervention to deny Wamani.
Just before halftime, IUEA finally broke through. Ukasha Kamoga found himself in the right place at the right time and calmly slotted home the equalizer, sending both teams into the break level at 1-1.
Second-Half Dominance and the Winning Goal
With momentum on their side, IUEA returned from the break looking the more confident team. Ten minutes into the second half, Bbaale Trevor and Cyprian Okello both found themselves in promising positions but failed to convert their chances.
UNIK struggled to regain control, and their defensive vulnerabilities were punished in the 65th minute. Justus Ssempijja delivered a pinpoint cross, which Okello met with precision, slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to give IUEA a crucial 2-1 lead.
The visitors had successfully turned the game around, leaving UNIK desperately searching for a response.
Late Drama and a Hard-Fought Victory
With 15 minutes left, Bbale Trevor nearly put the game beyond reach, working the ball well down the left before curling a shot just over the bar.
As time ticked away, UNIK pushed forward in search of an equalizer but struggled to create clear-cut chances. The match took another dramatic turn in stoppage time when Farouk Iga received a red card, reducing UNIK to ten men.
From the resulting free kick, Ukasha Kamoga unleashed a powerful shot that rattled the crossbar, narrowly missing the chance to seal the win in emphatic fashion.
At the final whistle, IUEA celebrated a hard-fought 2-1 victory, moving up to second place in Group E with seven points, while UNIK remained bottom with just one point.
Pepsi University Football League – Group E Standings (After Matchday 3)
- Team A – 9 points
- IUEA – 7 points
- Team B – 4 points
- UNIK – 1 point
IUEA will now shift focus to their next fixture, aiming to build on this momentum as they chase qualification to the quarterfinals.
