UMU stages dramatic comeback to edge Nkumba 2-1

Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) staged a dramatic comeback from a goal down to defeat Nkumba University 2-1 in their Pepsi University Football League first-leg quarterfinal clash at Nkumba Grounds in Entebbe on Wednesday.

Driven by a desire for revenge after being eliminated by Nkumba at the same stage last season, UMU entered the match with a determined mindset. Defending champions Nkumba, buoyed by their passionate home crowd, started strongly, with their fans taunting UMU supporters and reminding them of their status as titleholders.

The intensity in the stands was mirrored on the pitch, as both teams engaged in a fiercely physical contest, with heavy tackles flying in from the outset. Nkumba dominated the opening 35 minutes but failed to capitalize on several scoring opportunities. UMU nearly broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Ivan Agamile and Calvin Peter Emayo tested Nkumba goalkeeper Andrew Obwana, forcing him into two crucial saves. The first half ended goalless, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.

Nkumba came out with renewed urgency after the break and won a penalty in the 47th minute after UMU's Patrick Mutebi fouled Derrick Bamanya. Kennedy Ssewankambo stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to give Nkumba the lead. However, their advantage was short-lived, as Nkumba conceded a penalty just two minutes later when James Nabasa fouled Agamile. Joseph Kayondo made no mistake from the spot, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 49th minute.

In a dramatic twist, UMU took the lead just a minute later. Agamile capitalized on a lapse in concentration from Nkumba’s goalkeeper Andrews Obwana, who was caught off his line, and coolly slotted home to make it 2-1, silencing the home crowd.

Nkumba pushed hard for an equalizer, but UMU’s defense held firm. Ismail Lubega and Ssewankambo came agonizingly close, both striking the post. Controversy erupted in the 87th minute when Lubega’s free-kick appeared to have crossed the goal line after being cleared by UMU goalkeeper Pius Akena. Nkumba fans behind the goal were convinced it was a goal, but the officials ruled otherwise, sparking chaos. Players and fans surrounded center referee Ronald Kikabi and first assistant referee Bashir Jjunju, protesting the decision.

Security personnel intervened to restore order after an eight-minute delay, and the match resumed with UMU holding on to their 2-1 advantage. The victory gives UMU a crucial edge heading into the return leg, scheduled for next Tuesday in Nkozi.

Meanwhile, Thursday’s action will see St. Lawrence University (SLAU) hosting Ndejje University in Kavule, Mpigi, for their first-leg quarterfinal encounter.

Pepsi University Football League 
Quarterfinals 
First leg Results 

Tuesday 
Muteesa 1 Bugema 1

Wednesday 
Nkumba 1 UMU 2

Thursday, 4pm
SLAU v Ndejje 

Friday 
KU v IUIU
Live on Bukedde TV2/Wan Luo TV