The long wait for silverware is over for Muteesa 1 Royal University. In a pulsating Pepsi University Football League (UFL) final at the Hamz Stadium on Saturday, the Masaka-based “Royals” etched their name into the history books with a gritty 1-0 victory over YMCA Comprehensive Institute.
The victory marks the first time Muteesa 1 Royal University has lifted the prestigious trophy since the tournament’s inception, sparking wild celebrations that lasted long into the evening.
The game’s defining moment arrived in the 28th minute. After a period of cagey exchanges, right-back Twaha Bukenya found space on the flank and whipped in a “telling” cross. Sam Mutambo, rising highest amongst a sea of YMCA defenders, connected with a powerful header that left goalkeeper Kevin Ssenabulya rooted to the spot.
YMCA, under the guidance of Francisco Totti Ejuku, didn’t go down without a fight. They dominated spells of the second half as the sun beat down on the Hamz Stadium turf, seeking an opening through the industrious Geofrey Oketa and Danton Kaganzi.
However, the Muteesa 1 Royal backline, marshaled by skipper Eddie Jjunju, was in no mood to compromise. Their defensive organization was world-class, frustrating every YMCA foray into the final third. When the final whistle blew at 5:36 PM, the stadium erupted in deafening cheers as the Masaka giants officially became the kings of university football.
Bronze for Kampala University
In the curtain-raiser, Kampala University secured a podium finish by defeating St. Lawrence University 1-0. While St. Lawrence fought hard, they couldn’t find a response to KU’s clinical approach, leaving the Ggaba-based side to walk away with the bronze medals.
The Champions’ Roll of Honor:
Muteesa 1 Royal University XI: Joram Bugembe Kayanja (GK), Twaha Bukenya, Rooney Mukisa, Shafik Ssentongo, Hamidu Ssuuna, Eddie Jjunju (C), Ali Lutwama, Sam Mutambo, Brian Rwothomio, Alex Kizza Muwonge, Erick Katende.
YMCA Comprehensive Institute XI: Kevin Ssenabulya (GK), Ramadhan Ratib, Jordan Mutebi, Denis Ochulu, Jude Asiku, Geofrey Oketa, Oyella, Danton Kaganzi, Trevor Makubuya, Farouk Wasswa, Ashraf Luggya.
The next edition of UFL is scheduled for early October 2026.
