Defending champions Kitara booked their place in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 after a narrow 2-1 victory over Kampala Regional League side CATDA FC at Bugolobi Coffee Ground on Thursday.
A second-half header from Patrick Kaddu and a late own goal by CATDA defender Martin Kikambwe ensured Wasswa Bbosa’s side remained on course to defend their title, despite a spirited fight from the third-division hosts.
Kaddu opened the scoring in the 71st minute, rising highest to head home and give the Royals the lead.
However, CATDA showed resilience, equalising just 13 minutes later to raise hopes of forcing the tie into a penalty shootout.
Those hopes were dashed five minutes later when Kikambwe inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Kitara the win.
It was a hard-fought contest for the Uganda Premier League side, who had earlier cruised past Buganda Regional League outfit Young Simba with a 4-0 win in the Round of 64.
Despite the unconvincing nature of their latest victory, Kitara remains focused on their ultimate goal of lifting the Uganda Cup again and securing a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy. Cup games are unpredictable, and CATDA gave us a tough match,” head coach Wasswa Bbosa admitted after the game. “But the most important thing is advancing to the next round.”
Kitara join SC Villa, Total FC, Rwenzori Lions, Vipers and Kaaro Karungi in the Round of 16 as the chase for Uganda’s oldest knockout trophy intensifies.
The Royals will now turn their attention back to the Uganda Premier League, where they host URA on Saturday, March 1, at the Royal Park Butema.
