The FUFA Technical Center in Njeru witnessed a dramatic shift in tempo during the second matchday of the FUFA TV Cup 2024 Giant 8 tournament. Unlike the goal-laden opening round, which saw a staggering 18 goals, Matchday 2 was defined by tactical battles and defensive resilience, with only five goals scored across four fiercely contested games. Uganda’s top secondary schools showcased their grit and strategic prowess, with the results leaving some teams on the brink of qualification while others fought to keep their dreams alive.
Wednesday, 28th August 2024
Mengo Senior School 1-0 Mpanga SSS
In the scorching Njeru sun, Mengo Senior School faced off against Mpanga SSS in a game that was more about strategy than spectacle. Both teams were determined to protect their goal, leading to a first half that ended in a stalemate. However, the deadlock was broken just six minutes into the second half when Ivan Lukambya found the back of the net, sending the Mengo supporters into a frenzy. The goal not only brought joy but also mounted pressure on Mengo to defend their slim lead. Despite Mpanga’s relentless efforts to equalize, Mengo held firm, securing a crucial victory after their opening match defeat.
Nganwa High School 0-1 Nabumali High School
The second match of the day featured a clash between Nganwa High School and Nabumali High School. Both teams entered the pitch with a clear intent to dominate, launching a series of attacks right from the kickoff. The breakthrough came early when Nabumali’s star striker, Shakiri Wandera, delivered a stunning goal in the 10th minute. Despite Nganwa’s attempts to level the score, Nabumali’s defense remained impenetrable, and they walked away with three vital points. With this win, Nabumali cemented their position at the top of Group A, with six points from two games.
Thursday, 29th August 2024
Jinja SSS 1-0 Lango College
The action continued on Thursday as Jinja SSS took on Lango College in Group B. Lango, fresh off a massive 8-1 victory in their opening match, came into this game full of confidence. However, Jinja SSS had other plans. From the outset, they controlled the tempo, pressing high and creating numerous chances. Their persistence paid off when they were awarded a penalty, which John Brian Owino coolly converted. Lango College tried to claw their way back into the game in the second half, applying intense pressure and creating several opportunities. However, Jinja’s defense held strong, and they secured a hard-fought 1-0 win, moving them to the top of Group B.
Gombe SS 1-1 St Charles Lwanga Koboko
The final match of the day was a thrilling encounter between Gombe SS and St Charles Lwanga Koboko. Gombe SS took an early lead in the 15th minute through David Tumukunde, sending their fans into raptures. However, their joy was short-lived as St Charles Lwanga Koboko responded with an equalizer in the 62nd minute, courtesy of Ratib Musa Iliham. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving both teams with a single point each and everything to play for in their final group matches.
Group Standings After Matchday 2
- Group A: Nabumali High School leads with 6 points, followed by Mengo Senior School with 3 points. Nganwa High School and Mpanga SSS are both on 1 point.
- Group B: Jinja SSS tops the table with 6 points, Lango College sits second with 3 points, while St Charles Lwanga Koboko and Gombe SS are tied at the bottom with 1 point each.
Upcoming Fixtures
As the group stage reaches its climax, the final matches promise to deliver even more excitement:
- Friday, 30th August 2024
- Nabumali vs. Mpanga at FUFA Technical Center
- Nganwa vs. Mengo at Jinja SSS Mighty Arena
- Friday, 30th August 2024
- St Charles Lwanga vs. Lango College at FUFA Technical Center
- Gombe SS vs. Jinja SSS at Jinja SSS Mighty Arena
All games will kick off at 3:00 pm, and the tension will surely be palpable with everything on the line. Will the current leaders maintain their dominance, or will we witness a dramatic turn of events?
