By Victor Turinawe

Reagan Sekisambu secures Uganda Christian University, UCU Cardinals, the first win in the men’s football category of the Association of Uganda University Sports, AUUS Games 2025 edition.

Ssekisambu, who came on as a substitute early in the second half tactically changed UCU Cardinals’ style of play from a free-possessing team to a speedy attacking team. His continuous runs into ISBAT U university’s penalty area gave UCU Cardinals a penalty in the second which was converted by Jordan Ariak.

The lead was shot run by ISBAT University’s quick equalizer in a period of one minute after the Cardinals’ opening goal, courtesy of Abdul Shakur Kemba immediately after restarting the game.

Ssekisambu rose again with a better shot in the additional time of four minutes. Ssekisambu Inspires UCU Cardinals to Dramatic 2-1 Victory Over ISBAT University at AUUS Games 2025

In a thrilling men’s football encounter at the 20th Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) Games 2025, hosted at Uganda Christian University (UCU) in Mukono, substitute Reagan Ssekisambu proved the hero as UCU Cardinals edged ISBAT University 2-1 to claim their first win in the competition.

Introduced early in the second half, Ssekisambu injected pace and dynamism into the Cardinals’ play, transforming them from a possession-based side into a swift, attacking force. His relentless runs into the ISBAT penalty area forced a crucial spot-kick, which Jordan Ariak confidently converted to break the deadlock.

However, the lead lasted barely a minute. ISBAT struck back immediately after the restart, with Abdul Shakur Kemba capitalizing on a quick counter to level the scores and stun the home side.

As the match entered four minutes of added time, Ssekisambu rose to the occasion once more. The forward unleashed a powerful “belter” from distance to restore UCU’s advantage and seal a hard-fought victory.

The result propels UCU Cardinals to the top of Group C with four points and a +1 goal difference, following their opening 1-1 draw against Kampala University.

In his post-match interview, head coach Jimmy Kintu highlighted early struggles but praised the second-half adjustments. “It was a little bit difficult at the start because we never started well, playing at a low pace with heavy bodies. But after bringing on new players, we piled pressure on the opponent, who conceded a penalty, which we scored. We conceded immediately after, and maintaining the lead is something we have to work on, especially in a tournament with strong teams,” Kintu said.

Man of he match Ssekisambu attributed the win to teamwork and preparation. “The game was fair and in our favour. I give glory to God and credit to my teammates—football is a team game. It’s excellent to get this win. As a substitute, you’re a ‘collector’ watching the opponent’s movements from the bench, so I came on ready to penetrate them after observing in the first half,” he explained.

The AUUS Games 2025, which kicked off on December 19, continue until December 23, showcasing top university talent across multiple disciplines.