The 2025/26 Pepsi University Football League (UFL) semi-final between Kampala University and YMCA Comprehensive Institute remains delicately poised after a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg played on Tuesday at FUFA Kadiba Stadium.
Kampala University made an energetic start, asserting early dominance in front of their home supporters. Midfield orchestrator Gideon Nsubuga tested the waters inside the opening two minutes with a long-range effort, setting the tone for an attacking first half. Not long after, forward Mark Ebong forced a save with a well-struck attempt as the hosts piled on early pressure.
The attacking momentum continued with James Epaja delivering a dangerous ball into the box, only for YMCA’s resolute defender Jude Asiku to intervene decisively. Despite the early surge, Kampala University found it difficult to break through a disciplined YMCA backline.
The visitors gradually settled into the contest, registering their first real chance in the 8th minute when Denis Echulu curled in a free-kick after Ashraf Lugya was brought down. Although it failed to trouble the scoreboard, it signaled YMCA’s growing presence in the match.
Asiku remained a standout figure in defense, cutting out another threatening cross from Nsubuga midway through the first half. At the other end, full-back Jordan Mutebi attempted to spark a counterattack, but his delivery sailed over the target.
Approaching halftime, Kampala University continued to push forward, with Ebong seeing his effort blocked in a crowded penalty area before attempting an audacious chip that was comfortably handled by YMCA goalkeeper Kevin Ssenabulya. The first half concluded without goals, though not without drama, as YMCA’s Ochulu was booked for a foul on Raymond Kiwewa.
The second half resumed with Kampala University making a tactical change, introducing Joseph Kimera in place of Ebong. However, clear-cut chances remained scarce. Epaja’s inviting cross early in the half went unmet, while YMCA captain Ratib Ramadhan tried to unlock the defense with a long pass that was calmly collected by goalkeeper David Wafula.
Set pieces offered glimpses of opportunity, but neither side capitalized. Nsubuga’s free-kick struck the defensive wall, and YMCA’s John Kisekka later fired off target. As the clock ticked down, tension mounted with both teams pushing cautiously for a breakthrough.
A moment of brilliance nearly unlocked the deadlock when David Okema threaded a precise pass through the defense, but Epaja was flagged offside. Kiwewa also tried his luck from distance, only to find Ssenabulya alert and well-positioned.
Late in the game, both goalkeepers were called into action. Wafula produced a crucial save to deny Farouk Wasswa, preserving the clean sheet for the hosts. The match also saw a worrying moment when Kampala University’s Wanume and YMCA’s Asiku collided heavily, requiring immediate medical attention.
Despite ten minutes of added time, neither side could find the decisive goal, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg.
Attention now shifts to Buwambo playground, where the second leg will determine who advances to the final. With everything still to play for, both Kampala University and YMCA Comprehensive Institute will fancy their chances of securing a spot in the championship match.
In the other semi-final fixture, Muteesa I Royal University faces St. Lawrence University in what promises to be another thrilling contest.
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