The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), Mbale campus, are on the brink of making history as they prepare for the second leg of their semi-final clash in the Pepsi University Football League.
After a spirited 1-1 home draw against St. Lawrence University (SLAU) last week, IUIU find themselves one step away from a first-ever appearance in the final.
Despite conceding a crucial away goal in the first leg, head coach Kebba Ssenyange remains optimistic. “We have never won this coveted cup. So, we are determined to win and get into the final,” he said.
Kebba, a former FIFA referee, knows the odds are tilted against his side with SLAU only needing a goalless draw on Thursday, April 10, to progress on the away goals rule.
Nevertheless, IUIU’s remarkable campaign, which has taken many by surprise, has already broken new ground for the Mbale-based institution. For the first time in the league’s eleven-year history, IUIU reached the semi-final stage, signaling a turning point in their football ambitions.
The team’s improvement has been attributed in part to increased investment in football scholarships, a strategy mirrored by other successful university teams.
One of the standout performers this season has been team captain Shafik Kawooya. The fourth-year Law student has netted three goals and emerged as one of the league’s key players.
However, he is currently sidelined due to injury, a significant blow to IUIU’s attacking options, especially given their modest scoring record. IUIU scored only five goals during the group stages, relying heavily on a disciplined defense that conceded just twice.
Their defensive strength carried them through an unbeaten group stage campaign, where they topped Group A with 12 points from three wins and three draws. In the quarter-finals, they continued their solid form, drawing 1-1 away to two-time champions Kampala University before securing a narrow 1-0 win in the second leg.
SLAU, in contrast, have had a less consistent run. While they managed three wins in the group stage, they also suffered two defeats. Their away goal in the first leg gives them a slight edge, but they will face a confident IUIU side that has yet to lose a match this season.
Calvin Otim was the hero for IUIU in the first leg, scoring their only goal. His contribution keeps the dream alive for a team that continues to defy expectations.
With 90 minutes separating them from a maiden final appearance, IUIU are hoping their fairytale run extends just a little longer.
