The University Football League served up fresh drama on Monday 29, as YMCA Comprehensive Institute stunned former champions Nkumba University with a slender but priceless 1-0 triumph at the buzzing Buwambo campus.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when second-half substitute Magezi Enock pounced on a rebound after Nkumba shot-stopper Kazibwe Ronald failed to hold onto a fierce free kick from Luggya Ashraf.
The first half had been a tense affair, both sides exchanging forward surges without breaching each other’s defense.
But after the restart, YMCA gradually imposed themselves, with Kisseka John, Kaganzi Ibrahim, and Luggya orchestrating play in the middle of the park.
Their dominance left Nkumba’s engine room trio of Mukiibi Saad, Bwiruka Solomon, and Nsubuga Joel struggling to keep pace.
Nkumba skipper Lubega Ismael fought tirelessly to inspire his side, yet he found no way past YMCA’s rock-solid backline marshaled by captain Kyandiga Ibrahim, who kept the visitors’ attack in check with commanding leadership.
The victory pushes YMCA into second position in the group with three points, tying Kyambogo University, who had earlier edged ISBAT University 2-1 at Nakivubo.
For Nkumba—winners of the 11th edition of the competition—the result is a rude awakening, leaving them with work to do if they are to mount another title challenge.
The UFL continues on Wednesday with a hotly anticipated northern derby as Gulu University hosts long-time rivals Lira University in a clash expected to ignite passions.
