Muteesa I Royal University edged debutants Africa Renewal University 1–0 in a cagey University Football League clash at Kabira Arena on Monday, thanks to Lutwama Ali’s composed penalty shortly after the interval.
The game’s pivotal moment arrived two minutes into the second half when Lutwama slotted home from the spot, deceiving goalkeeper Mayinja Dirisa and sending the home terraces into jubilant uproar.
Africa Renewal, making their first appearance in the competition, were far from overawed.
They dictated much of the early tempo, controlling possession and probing patiently.
Their clearest openings came in the 26th minute when a scrambled effort drifted narrowly wide and again just before halftime when Ssegujja Marvin’s curling free-kick drew a fingertip save from Ssemakula Ivan, who was alert throughout for the hosts.
Muteesa’s flanks were unusually subdued in the opening exchanges; wingers Busuulwa Patrick and Sserugo Geoffrey found space limited by disciplined fullbacks from the visitors.
At halftime, coach George William Ssengabi rallied his players and the team returned sharper, applying the pressure that ultimately produced the penalty.
After taking the lead, Muteesa adopted a pragmatic posture—slowing the tempo, closing passing lanes and absorbing Africa Renewal’s late surges.
The visitors pressed for an equaliser, but the home side’s defensive organisation and timely interventions preserved the narrow advantage until the final whistle.
The victory keeps Muteesa unbeaten on home turf and reinforces Kabira Arena’s growing reputation as a difficult venue for travelling sides.
For Africa Renewal, the performance offered encouragement: despite the result, the newcomers showcased composure and tactical nous that bode well for their campaign.
The UFL action resumes Tuesday with Kabale University entertaining Bugema University.
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