By Michael Ainomugisha.
Uganda Christian University (UCU) Lady Cardinals registered their first preseason win by a 1-0 win over South Sudanese Women’s League champions Yei Joint Stars FC on August 20, 2025, at the UCU Old Pitch in Mukono.
The match started on a slow note, with UCU fielding striker Jovia Nakagolo and defender-turned-midfielder Halima Kanyago, both of whom had played elsewhere in the top flight action in the second part of last season. Their presence helped steady the side against the physical visitors.
The Cardinals also gave opportunities to several new players as Coach Collins Ahumuza sought to test options for the coming season. The first half ended goalless despite both teams creating half chances.
After the break, Ahumuza made sweeping changes, introducing more new faces and adjusting to a back three of Peace Aloyo, Kanyago, and Betty Nakyeyune, with fullbacks Jane Nantongo and Maureen Mukisa pushing into midfield.
The breakthrough came early in the second half when midfielder Catherine Nassimbwa finished off a well-placed pass from Nantongo to seal the win for the home side.
This fixture marked UCU’s fourth preseason outing, having earlier faced St. Noa Girls (twice) and Kampala Queens, with their final record standing at one win, two defeats, and a draw.
The Lady Cardinals are using the preseason to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2025/26 FUFA Women’s Elite League campaign after finishing second in the Elizabeth Group during the 2024/25 season.
