UMU secures convincing semifinal first-leg win over Bugema

Despite fielding a depleted squad, Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) delivered a dominant performance to defeat Bugema University 2-0 in the first leg of their Pepsi University Football League semifinal yesterday at Nkozi Grounds in Mpigi District.

The two-time champions controlled the match throughout, with second-half goals from defender Emmanuel Tumusiime (52’) and substitute forward Richard Lagu (86’) sealing a well-deserved victory.

UMU entered the game without seven key players—including captain Robert Kitabalwa, Akbar Ssentongo, Sanny Kaija, Calvin Peter Emayo, Emmanuel Ogwang, Taban Wijjo, and Obedi Giu—due to injuries and suspensions from accumulated yellow cards.

Yet, head coach Eric Kisuze’s reshuffled lineup rose to the occasion, ensuring the absentees were hardly missed. Stand-in forwards Ivan Agamile and Emmanuel Ogwang relentlessly pressured Bugema’s defense, while Crispus Sseruwuge, replacing Ogwang in midfield, partnered effectively with Nicholas Jjungu to stifle Bugema’s attacks.

At the back, UMU goalkeeper Sadam Okoboi had little to do, as Bugema’s strikers, Sulaiman Ssentongo and Kenneth Bwabye, failed to record a single shot on target.

Bugema coach Meddy Nyanzi, who has historically struggled against UMU, was left frustrated by his team’s lackluster display against a supposedly weakened opponent.

The result gives UMU a strong advantage heading into next Tuesday’s second leg at Bugema. They need only avoid a defeat by more than two goals to advance to their first final since 2022—the year they last won the title.

For Bugema, the task is now monumental: they must overturn the two-goal deficit to keep their championship hopes alive.
Pepsi University Football League

Semifinals

First leg

Tuesday

UMU 2 Bugema 0

Thursday

Return leg

SLAU v IUIU

Aggregate (1-1)