Kembo's decisive strike books SLAU's place in University Football League final

Pepsi University Football League 
Semi-final
Return leg 
Thursday 
SLAU 1 IUIU 0
Aggregate (SLAU 2-1 IUIU)

A first-half strike from Arafat Kembo proved decisive as St. Lawrence University (SLAU) edged Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) 1-0 at Crown City Grounds, securing a 2-1 aggregate victory and a place in the Pepsi University Football League final for the third time.

The 24th-minute winner came when Kembo calmly converted Patrick Ssekyanzi's low cross, building on last week's 1-1 first-leg draw in Mbale. SLAU controlled much of the first half but found chances limited by IUIU's resolute defense, marshaled by Emmanuel Shikanga and Jimy Mpande.

IUIU pushed aggressively for an equalizer after the break, but SLAU's disciplined backline held firm, sparking wild celebrations at full-time as the Mukono-based side returned to the final for the first time since 2022.

Assistant coach Fred Bakisula, who suffered final defeats in 2019 and 2022, declared: "We're excited but not satisfied. Falling short twice has only sharpened our hunger—this time, we're bringing the trophy home." SLAU now awaits the winner of Uganda Martyrs University (holding a 2-0 lead) versus Bugema University.

Despite the heartbreak, IUIU coach Haruna Kebba praised his history-making squad: "Reaching our first semifinal with the league's tightest defense is no small feat. We'll regroup to fight for bronze." The third-place playoff offers consolation for a team that lost just once all season.