By 
University Football League | Friday 14 February 2025
- ISBAT vs IUIU -Kanyanya | 3 pm
The Pepsi University Football League is heating up as IUIU prepares to face ISBAT in a decisive fixture.
Both teams are desperate for points, with ISBAT still seeking their first win of the campaign and IUIU aiming to break their group stage curse.
Tambula Ismail and teammates celebrating IUIU’s goal.
Ahead of the game, IUIU head coach Haruna Kebba and ISBAT coach Haumba Edwin shared their thoughts on the upcoming match.
ISBAT has endured a rough start to the season, sitting at the bottom of the table after losing their first three games without scoring a goal and conceding five. Coach Haumba Edwin acknowledged the poor form but remains hopeful of a turnaround.
“We need to cover ourselves, but it seems to be late. However, a win would do us much better as results are needed as a motivation factor for the team,” said Haumba.
“The break came at a good time for us to redeem ourselves as things weren’t working properly. It is important that everyone understands that this game is very important. We must go and give everything and look for the victory.”
ISBAT sees this as a must-win fixture and has been working tirelessly to prepare for the challenge.
“We have prepared for the game. This is a final for us. We are in a tight group. IUIU is a very good team. We have tried to work for the whole week, and we are ready to start the game. We hope ladyluck will be on our side,” added Edwin.
For IUIU, the match holds equal significance. A win is crucial if they are to stand a chance of progressing from the group stage.
In previous seasons, the team has struggled to advance due to poor away results. Coach Haruna Kebba is determined to change that narrative this season.
“Last season, we failed to make it out of the group stage partly because of these games where we failed to win away from home,” Kebba admitted.
“We can promise that we will fight for everything—every game, every point. That’s our goal in the second round, and the players are ready for it.”
IUIU has not played in two months, a situation that presents both advantages and challenges. However, Kebba is confident in his team’s ability to perform under pressure.
“This has advantages but also inconveniences. However, we are competitors. Playing for a draw is not good enough. We shall go for the victory. This is our identity. We want to progress in the tournament.”
IUIU are currently top of Group A with 7 points, one more than second placed Busitema who are on 6 and a win will stretch their lead to 10.
For ISBAT, they are bottom without a point.
