AUUS GAMES 2025: UCU  edges Makerere in thrilling final to win men’s football title 

Uganda Christian University (UCU) has emerged as the 2025 Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) Games men’s football champions, defeating Makerere University 2-1 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in normal time.

The hosts, who secured their spot in the final with a 1-0 win over Kampala University, held their nerve in the penalty shootout, with Sharif Ssewanyana and Najib Bananywa scoring for UCU.

UCU’s Patrick Ogola and Reagan Ssekisambu missed their penalties.

Makerere University, returning to the final for the first time in 12 years, had only Ismail Ogwang convert from the spot, while Musa Male, Kevin Ssekimbega, and Emmanuel Ogwang missed.

UCU’s journey to the final also included a 2-0 quarter-final win over Nkumba University, with goals from Isaac Opejjo and Reagan Ssekisambu.

Makerere University, who last appeared in the final in 2013, booked their ticket with a 1-0 win over IUIU, courtesy of Innocent Kisolo’s late-minute thunderous strike.

They had eliminated Makerere University Business School (MUBS) 1-0 in the quarter-finals, thanks to Kevin Ssekibengo’s penalty conversion.

UCU head coach Jimmy Kintu Mwera hailed his side’s progress, noting their steady rebuild after recent disappointments.

“We have been struggling and rebuilding in the previous two editions. We look better than we were in the last two tournaments and now we have had a real chance to lift the trophy again,” Mwera said.