By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda Christian University Cardinals booked a place in the final of the AUUS Games football competition after a narrow 1–0 win over Kampala University (KU).
The semi-final, played with high intensity, was decided before halftime. Peter Kyomuhendo delivered a well-taken corner kick that found Sharif Ssewanyana, who rose highest to head the ball past the Kampala University goalkeeper.
UCU controlled long spells of the first half and pushed for a second goal, but Kampala University stayed compact and disciplined at the back to limit further damage.
In the second half, UCU increased pressure by introducing winger Geoffrey Oyaka. Alongside Regan Ssekisambu, the duo stretched the KU defense and forced them to remain alert for the remainder of the match.
Kampala University created several chances of their own but were denied by goalkeeper Elton Mwidu, who made key saves to keep UCU ahead. KU also failed to capitalize on a few free headers as the Cardinals held firm until the final whistle.
Captain Patrick Ogola described the win as a turning point after difficult seasons.
“Being a captain of a finalist is a pleasure. For the past two seasons, we have not been doing well. KU knocked us out in the East Africa University Games, so this was important for us. People see us as underdogs, but we are working to change that because our fans and the university expect a lot from us,” Ogola said.
Ogola also acknowledged the challenge ahead in the final.
“Makerere University deserves respect. Many teams started, and now it is one versus one. We respect them, but we are coming to win,” he added.
Head coach Jimmy Kintu praised his team’s patience and growth.
It has been a process with a lot of pain. We have struggled in recent years, but today the boys understood everything and delivered. Now we have a chance to play in the final,” Kintu said.
UCU will face Makerere University in the final at 12:00 PM as the Cardinals seek to cap their AUUS Games campaign with the title.
