Pepsi University Football League
Semifinal First Leg
Today, 4pm
Muteesa v SLAU
History beckons for Muteesa 1 Royal University as they step onto the semifinal stage for the first time, but standing in their path is a seasoned St Lawrence University side eager to finally claim the Pepsi University Football League crown.
The Masaka-based outfit have turned heads with a spirited campaign, eliminating giants Uganda Martyrs University to book their place among the final four. Now, backed by a passionate home crowd at Kirumba Grounds, they will look to seize the moment and take control of the tie in the first leg.
Coach George William Ssengabi has built a team driven by belief rather than reputation, with confidence steadily growing at every stage of the competition. While acknowledging the quality of their opponents, he remains convinced his side can rise to the occasion and protect their home turf.
Despite their impressive run, Muteesa’s attacking efficiency remains a concern. Their quarterfinal success relied heavily on spot kicks, and they will need sharper finishing from open play, with Ali Lutwama, Geoffrey Sserugo, Patrick Busuulwa and Nicholas Ssenyonjo expected to carry the attacking burden.
For St Lawrence University, consistency has been their biggest weapon. The former finalists have swept aside all challengers so far and arrive in Masaka with momentum after a commanding aggregate win over Ndejje University. Having fallen short in previous finals, their mission this season is clear—go all the way.
Assistant coach Fred Bakisula is wary of the challenge posed by the hosts, particularly the intensity of the Masaka crowd, but remains confident his side can secure a valuable result on the road. However, concerns over the fitness of several key players could influence their approach heading into the clash.
With one side chasing a dream debut final and the other determined to end years of near-misses, the Masaka encounter promises a gripping battle as both teams fight to gain the upper hand.
