StarTimes Uganda Premier League, December 12, 2025, MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo
We suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of KCCA at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, as Saidi Mayanja struck twice — early in the first half and late in the second half, rendering Titus Ssematimba’s early second-half equalizer meaningless.
The match, marred by two red cards, saw our side show tremendous resilience but ultimately undone by a late KCCA high press. This result leaves us in 10th place with 11 points from 10 matches, while KCCA extended their lead at the summit to 23 points.
Our early substitution due to injury to Buule coupled with an early goal disrupted the rhythm, but the introduction of Ssematimba at halftime proved pivotal in sparking our equalizer.
First Half: Early Setback and Defensive Resolve
The game started on the back foot for us as KCCA struck early. Just five minutes in, Saidi Mayanja capitalized on a pass from Sammy Ssebaduka to slot home the opener, putting us 1-0 down. Despite the hosts’ dominance in possession, our defense held firm, with goalkeeper Samson Kirya producing a crucial save in the early phases to prevent a second.
We weathered the storm, absorbing pressure while looking for counter opportunities. Joseph Sseremba picked up a yellow card in the 37th minute for a foul on Mayanja, and substitute Ibrahim Musa was booked in first-half stoppage time for a challenge on Ssebaduka. At the break, we trailed 1-0 but remained in the contest, thanks to disciplined defending and Kirya’s heroics.
Second Half: Equalizer, Drama, and Late Heartbreak
The second period saw us come out with renewed vigor, pushing KCCA back and creating chances. Six minutes after his introduction, Titus Ssematimba rose highest to head home our equalizer in the 51st minute, after a delicious well weighed cross from Maibi after beating his marker leveling the score at 1-1 and igniting hopes of a point or more. This goal showcased our fighting spirit, turning the tide momentarily as we dominated proceedings.
However, discipline became an issue around the 56th minute when Joseph Dhata received a yellow for a foul. Ssematimba, our goal hero, then picked up two quick yellows; first for a challenge on Emmanuel Anyama, and shortly after for a foul on Lazaro Muhindo resulting in a red card that left us with 10 men. Just three minutes later, KCCA’s Anyama was also sent off for a foul on our Ibrahim Musa, evening the numbers but disrupting the flow.
With both sides down to 10, the game opened up, and Kirya again shone with a vital save in the 66th minute to deny Anyama before his dismissal. We pushed for a winner but were caught after a quick press from KCCA and our un decisiveness. Alex Yiga dispossessed Musa and set up Mayanja, whose shot hit the woodwork before nestling in the net for 2-1. Despite late efforts, we couldn’t find another response.
What next;
We travel to face UPDF FC in Bombo this Tuesday, with a 4:00 PM kickoff.