Newcomers King Ceasor University (KCU) were handed a harsh receiption at home in the Pepsi University Football League after a ruthless Uganda Christian University (UCU) side handed them a 6–1 thrashing on Wednesday at the YES Centre in Nsambya.
But beyond the scoreline, the story was about UCU’s return to form and renewed intent after a shaky start to the season. The 2019 champions, who had stumbled on matchday one, looked every bit the title contenders again — fluid, confident, and clinical in front of goal.
Head coach John Ssenyange appeared to have fixed his side’s early attacking inefficiencies, unleashing a performance that combined precision and pace. Leading the charge was Reagan Ssekisambu, whose hat-trick — the first of the 13th edition — reminded fans why he’s regarded as one of the most lethal forwards in university football.
Skipper Patrick Ogola provided leadership and end product with two well-taken goals, while substitute Haruna Nyanzi came off the bench to make his mark late on. The trio’s goals highlighted UCU’s growing attacking depth — a feature that could prove vital as the season progresses.
Ssekisambu opened the scoring midway through the first half, finishing calmly after a sweeping team move. Twelve minutes later, he doubled the advantage with a neat finish to give UCU control before the break. After halftime, the Mukono-based side showed no signs of slowing down — Ogola converted from the spot before Ssekisambu completed his hat-trick with a poacher’s goal.
By the 73rd minute, substitute Nyanzi had joined the party, slotting home the fifth, and Ogola’s delightful chip in the 84th minute sealed a commanding victory. KCU’s only bright moment came in the closing stages when Arnold Atusiginire netted a penalty — their first-ever goal in the competition.
For the debutants, the defeat was another learning curve after their opening loss to IUIU, but their late goal offered a small piece of history to build on.
UCU, meanwhile, will take plenty of confidence from this emphatic win as they look to reignite their title ambitions. With their attack now firing and new energy in the squad, the former champions appear ready to remind everyone why they once ruled university football.
The league resumes Thursday with another high-stakes clash as St. Lawrence University (SLAU) face Makerere University Business School (MUBS) at Hamz Stadium — a fixture that promises goals and drama.
