Chaos forces abandonment of Bugema-Muteesa quarterfinal

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Pepsi University Football League
Bugema 0 Muteesa 0 (Bugema 1-1 Muteesa agg)

Today: UMU v Nkumba (4pm, Live on Bukedde TV2/Wan Luo)

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Violence erupted during the 75th minute of the Pepsi University Football League quarterfinal return leg between Bugema University and Muteesa I Royal University in Bugema, Luwero District, forcing the match to be abandoned. Both teams accused each other of inciting the chaos.

The trouble began when Muteesa fans stormed the pitch, claiming that Bugema supporters were attacking them near a corner flag with sticks. Security personnel, including Uganda Police Force officers and Bugema security guards, intervened but ended up beating fans from both sides, which only intensified the situation.

In retaliation, some students fought back against security forces but were eventually overpowered and driven off the pitch. After a 19-minute stoppage, Muteesa’s Dean of Students, Paddy Ssenkungu, instructed his team not to resume play, citing concerns for their safety.

Following discussions with the match assessor, referee Emmanuel Ouni decided to call off the game after Muteesa officials refused to continue. Spectators were seen holding sticks, making it difficult to determine which side was responsible for the violence.

Muteesa’s team later left Bugema under heavy security escort, chanting their university songs and the Buganda anthem as they made their way back to Masaka.

With the tie level at 1-1, the fate of both teams now rests with the University Football League disciplinary committee, which will decide who advances to the semifinals.

Before the chaos, Bugema had an advantage, leading on away goals after their 1-1 draw in Masaka last week.

Meanwhile, quarterfinal action continues Tuesday in Nkozi, where Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) will host defending champions Nkumba University. UMU holds a 2-1 aggregate lead following their first-leg victory in Entebbe last week.