A moment of authority from captain Fillbert Obenchan proved decisive as KCCA FC advanced to the Round of 16 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mbarara City FC at Phillip Omondi Stadium on Sunday evening.
The contest was a tightly balanced affair, with both sides showing caution and discipline in the early exchanges. Opportunities were scarce, and the visitors remained compact, frustrating the hosts’ attempts to break them down.
The breakthrough arrived moments before the interval. Ashraf Mugume delivered a well-weighted free kick into the danger area, inviting a response.
Obenchan reacted instinctively, launching himself forward to meet the cross with a commanding diving header that flew beyond the goalkeeper. It was a finish that underlined his influence and responsibility as skipper.
After the restart, Mbarara City increased their urgency, committing numbers forward in search of an equaliser.
Their persistence tested KCCA’s resilience, but the home side remained organised at the back. Timely blocks, crucial interceptions and composed clearances ensured the slender advantage stayed intact.
KCCA nearly doubled their cushion in the closing stages when substitute Bright Anukani found the net.
Celebrations were cut short, however, as the assistant referee signaled offside in the build-up, ruling out what would have been a decisive second goal.
Despite late pressure from the Ankole Lions, KCCA managed the closing minutes professionally to secure progression. The result makes them the first club to confirm a place in this season’s Round of 16.
The Round of 32 fixtures resume on Tuesday, February 24, as the remaining teams battle for qualification to the next phase of the competition.
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