University Football League kicks off as KU stun UMU with stalemate

Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo was buzzing on Thursday after

The stands were painted with colour, chants and vuvuzelas as fans turned up in big numbers for the 2025/2026 season opener. On the pitch, two-time winners Kampala University (KU) proved that they are not in the competition to make up numbers, holding defending champions Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) to a goalless draw in a thrilling contest.

Among those visibly delighted was KU proprietor, Professor Badru Kateregga, who watched the entire 90 minutes from the VVIP wing. 

At full-time, he walked away smiling, impressed by the grit and determination shown by his players.

“I am very happy with the performance of our players. We did not win but a draw is good because we were playing the defending champions. I think we played well and can now hope to beat other opponents,” Kateregga said warmly, his pride in the team evident.

From the opening whistle, KU looked fearless. The trio of Raymond Kiweewa, Gilbert Wanume and Joseph Kimera pressed high and tested UMU’s backline, forcing errors and raising the noise levels from the KU fans. But for all their energy, they lacked the killer instinct to convert their chances.

The champions, perhaps caught cold early on, reorganised after the break. Their familiar swagger began to show as midfield maestro Odoi Valentino and forwards Nicholas Jjonga, Steven Yiga, Barnabas Wangi and Ronald Obedi Giu strung together slick passes, pinning KU deep in their half.

But KU’s defence would not be breached. Captain Abbey Mulamba, alongside the resolute pair of Benjamin Nsubuga and Joel Mulwana, threw bodies on the line, while debutant goalkeeper David Wafula turned into the unlikely hero.

His four saves in the second half alone denied Yiga and Odoi in quick succession, drawing applause even from neutral fans.

Drama peaked in the 89th minute. Yiga thought he had delivered UMU’s winning moment when he tucked home after Wafula spilled Wangi’s shot. The stadium erupted only for the assistant referee’s flag to rise for offside, breaking UMU hearts and sending KU supporters into wild celebrations of their own.

Despite the disappointment, UMU coach Eric Kisuze chose to look at the bigger picture.

“It is true we wasted many chances in the second half but I am happy with their performance. This is a new team, they are still learning to play together. With time, they will be a good side,” Kisuze reflected.

This year’s league format means the two sides, both placed in Group A, will not meet again after AUUS scrapped the home-and-away system in favour of a single round-robin phase. That added weight to every point — making KU’s stalemate feel like a statement of intent.

The action continues today in Mukono where 2019 champions Uganda Christian University (UCU) host Ndejje University in a Group E clash.