By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda Christian University Football team, the UCU Cardinals, opened their 2026/27 University Football League (UFL) campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Busitema University on Wednesday, November 4, at the UCU New Pitch in Mukono.
Jimmy Kintu’s side took control of the contest early, scoring twice within three minutes in the first half before adding a third goal after the break to secure maximum points in front of their home supporters.
Debutant defender Chrysostom Owor broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, rising highest to head home Ivan Kisemabo’s corner and give the Cardinals an early advantage.
Three minutes later, forward Bashir Wadawa doubled UCU’s lead after capitalising on a defensive error. A weak backpass from a Busitema defender allowed Wadawa to intercept the ball before firing past the goalkeeper.
The Cardinals maintained their two-goal advantage heading into half-time, leaving the visitors with an uphill task in the second half.
UCU extended their lead in the 70th minute when substitute debutant Alvin Kitibwa converted a penalty after midfielder Najib Bananywa was brought down inside the box.
The goal sealed a comfortable victory for the hosts, who began their campaign with three goals and a clean sheet.
Speaking after the match, UCU captain Harry Abiti emphasised the importance of securing maximum points under the league’s new competition format, particularly after the team’s disappointing campaign last season.
“With the new format of university football, we are required to maximise points in every game. In the next game, we need to come back stronger and convert more of our chances. This result was crucial in building momentum,” Abiti said.
Both UCU and Busitema failed to progress beyond the group stage last season, making Wednesday’s encounter an opportunity for the two sides to begin their campaigns on a positive note.
For UCU, the 2019 champions, the victory marked an encouraging start as they seek to return to the knockout stages and challenge for another league title.
The Cardinals will next face Makerere University Business School (MUBS) on November 13 as they look to build on their opening victory.
Following Wednesday’s result, UCU sit top of Group A on goal difference.
