KCCA FC secured a 1-0 victory over URA FC in the opening match of the Uganda Premier League, held at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.
The highly anticipated fixture saw KCCA FC take an early lead, which they defended resolutely to claim all three points.
Early on, KCCA’s Bright Anukani delivered a stunning cross, but Saidi Mayanja’s header was expertly saved by URA goalkeeper James Alitho Ochan.
The breakthrough came at the half-hour mark when a slick passing move in URA’s box allowed Derrick Nsibambi to tee up Saidi Mayanja, who drilled the ball into the bottom right corner, giving KCCA a crucial advantage.
Just minutes later, Joel Sserunjogi received a yellow card for a foul on URA’s Ivan Namanya. KCCA thought they had doubled their lead when Nsibambi tapped in a well-delivered cross from Sharifu Ssengendo, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
Shortly after, URA’s Kimbowa Sharif was booked for a foul on KCCA’s Etienne Katenga, as tensions flared on the pitch.
At halftime, KCCA FC led 1-0.
The second half saw Haruna Lukwago come on for Ssengendo, adding more energy to the game. KCCA nearly extended their lead when Anukani’s powerful shot was tipped away by Ochan in the 48th minute.
Lukwago’s presence continued to trouble URA, with his 64th-minute cross narrowly headed wide by Mayanja.
URA’s frustrations were evident when Joshua Lubwama was cautioned for a foul on Nsibambi, while KCCA made another change, bringing on Ashraf Mugume for Katenga.
Despite a spirited effort from URA FC, KCCA’s defence remained firm, and the solitary goal proved enough to secure victory.
KCCA FC will now turn their attention to their next fixture against BUL FC on Friday, 20th September, at the newly inaugurated Lugazi Stadium.
