By 
University Football League
- Uganda Martyrs 2-0 University of Kisubi
Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi (UMU) reaffirmed their dominance in Group E of the Pepsi University Football League, rounding off the group stage with a 2-0 victory over University of Kisubi (UNIK) on Monday evening.
Already assured of a spot in the knockout phase, the two-time champions displayed their authority once again, finishing unbeaten with 16 points out of a possible 18, well out of reach for their competitors.
Right from kickoff, Uganda Martyrs dictated play, launching early attacking waves against a well-organized UNIK defense. Within the first 10 minutes, UMU showed clear attacking intent, but they struggled to break through the resistance of goalkeeper Kibukuna Julius.
In the 20th minute Obedgiu Ronald Laker came closest, getting on the end of an Agamile Ivan through ball, but his shot missed the target, a big let-off for the home side.
At the other end, Bukenya Peter nearly shocked the hosts with a long-range effort at the half-hour mark, sending his shot whiskers wide.
Five minutes later, UNIK’s Kibukuna produced a stunning save to deny Calvin Peter Emayu in a one-on-one situation, before pulling off a superb double save to frustrate Chiengkuoth Par Jiek and Emayu once again.
Despite relentless pressure from Uganda Martyrs, the first half ended goalless, thanks to Kibukuna’s heroic goalkeeping.
The hosts wasted no time in the second half, and five minutes after the restart, the breakthrough finally arrived. Obedgiu Ronald met an Agamile cross, firing home the opening goal to give UMU a deserved lead.
UNIK’s Kibukuna Julius continued his fine performance, pulling off a brilliant save to deny substitute Kaija Sunny just seven minutes later. The visitors’ shot stopper was once again called into action in the 64th minute, stopping Ogwang’s low shot and recovering swiftly after spilling the initial effort.
However, his resistance could only last so long. Three minutes later, UMU doubled their lead when Kayondo Joseph unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box after a well-placed Kidega cross.
The hosts almost added a third in the 75th minute, with Kidega’s goal-bound effort blocked by Magezi Reagan after Kaija’s header across the box. Kibukuna was again at his best, making a crucial save from Kidega’s curling shot, pushing it over the bar.
With time running out, Kayondo and Kaija combined beautifully, setting up another chance for Kayondo, but his effort flew over the crossbar. UMU, however, had already done enough to seal the 2-0 win.
With this result, Uganda Martyrs University completed an undefeated group stage campaign, cementing their status as one of the top contenders for the title. They finished top Group E with 16 points, proving their superiority ahead of the knockout stage.
Meanwhile, University of Kisubi endured a tough campaign, finishing at the bottom of the group with just one point.
