Thrilling Start to 2026 USSSA Elite Games: Zana derby ends in dramatic draw; Kawempe Muslim SS dominates

The 2026 Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) Elite Games kicked off with an electrifying clash in the girls’ football competition, as the much-anticipated Zana Derby ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw.

In a fierce contest that lived up to its billing, defending champions St. Noa Girls Secondary School-Zana had to battle hard to earn a point against a determined Standard High School-Zzana side.

The game’s first goal came from Standard High’s Lillian Asianzu, who found the back of the net with a clinical finish in the 20th minute.

Despite their best efforts, St. Noa struggled to break down their opponents’ defense, until the dying moments of the match.

In the added two minutes of play, St. Noa’s debutant Immaculate Acen rose to the occasion, scoring a late equalizer that brought relief and joy to the reigning champions.

This dramatic conclusion capped off a thrilling start to the competition.

In other matches, Kawempe Muslim SS made a commanding debut, thrashing Nkoma SS 4-0.

Shadia Nabirye was the star of the show, bagging a brace, while goals from Agnes Nabukenya and Dorcus Kisakye completed the resounding victory for Kawempe.

Meanwhile, Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bukedea Comprehensive School, with Sanyu Grace Nambuya scoring the lone goal of the match to seal the win for her side.

As the 2026 USSSA Elite Games continue, the excitement is only just beginning, with more thrilling encounters expected in the coming days.