AUUS Games 2025: UMU edge Kyambogo as defending champions make winning start

By Kayiira Jackson 

Defending champions Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) opened their title defence with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Kyambogo University in Friday evening action at the Mukono Bishops SS playground, as day one of the football competition delivered drama, goals and tight contests.

UMU’s decisive moment came in the 27th minute when Kyambogo defender Rashid Onen inadvertently turned an in-swinging delivery into his own net, handing the Martyrs the crucial breakthrough. Kyambogo pushed for an equaliser thereafter, but UMU’s defensive organisation and composure across the pitch ensured they held on for maximum points.

Elsewhere, Nkumba University produced a dominant display to dispatch Soroti University 4–1. Goals from Kamya Rashid, captain Lubega Ismael, Kavuma Abbey and Kaweesi Shafik sealed an emphatic win, with Kaggwa David scoring Soroti’s lone consolation.

Bugema University recovered from their morning setback against St Lawrence University to register their first victory of the tournament, beating ISBAT University 2–0. Kimuli Denis was the hero, calmly converting two spot kicks in the 47th and 58th minutes of the second half.

Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) also collected three points after edging Bishop Stuart University 2–1. Wambede Shafik gave the Mbale-based side an early lead in the 21st minute before Bishop Stuart drew level through an own goal by Masogoi Sudaisi eight minutes later. Otim Calvin then struck a fine winner in the 50th minute to settle the contest.

The final match of the day saw Kampala University share the spoils with hosts Uganda Christian University (UCU) in a 1–1 draw. Titi Kamara’s Kampala side went ahead in the 11th minute through in-form forward Busolo Paul, but UCU responded after the break, equalising in the 50th minute following an own goal by Benjamin Nsubuga. The result moved Kampala University to four points from two matches.

Football action at the AUUS Games continues on Saturday, with matches spread across various venues as teams battle for early supremacy.

Results – Friday

• Uganda Martyrs University 1–0 Kyambogo University
• Nkumba University 4–1 Soroti University
• Bugema University 2–0 ISBAT University
• IUIU 2–1 Bishop Stuart University
• Kampala University 1–1 Uganda Christian University