UCU football teams gear up for AUUS Games title chase

Uganda Christian University (UCU) is abuzz with excitement as the men’s and women’s football teams enter the final stages of preparations for the 20th edition of the Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) Games.

The games kick off on Thursday, December 18, at the university’s main campus in Mukono, and the hosts are determined to make a statement.

The women’s team, reigning champions after lifting the title in 2023, are confident of mounting a successful title defense.

Head coach Collins Ahumuza is optimistic, despite stiff competition expected from Nkumba University, Kampala University, and East Africa Games champions Makerere University.

“We’re preparing well for the games. As the women’s team, we believe that at this stage we’re ready to compete and defend the title we won in 2023,” Ahumuza said.

The squad has been strengthened with additions from UCU’s sister campuses and experienced league players, including Zabinah Nanboozo and Esther Namataka from Mbale campus, Jovia Nakagolo from Kawempe Muslim Ladies, and Apio Faith from She Maroons.

Ahumuza acknowledged limited competitive action but believes their preparation has been sufficient.

“The only challenge is that we haven’t been playing in the league, but the friendlies we’ve had are enough for us to compete and defend the title,” he noted.

The men’s team, on the other hand, are aiming to improve on their quarterfinal exit in the 2023 AUUS Games. Head coach Jimmy Kintu is confident that his current squad has the quality and experience to go further this time.

The games will feature 24 universities from across the country, with the draws set to be conducted on Wednesday, a day before the teams’ arrival. The AUUS Games will run from December 18 to 23, with UCU hosting the event.

In men’s football, Uganda Martyrs University are the reigning champions, having beaten Bugema University in the 2023 final via penalty shootouts after a goalless draw.

Can UCU dippers claim the top spot this year?