Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Nkozi have shifted their focus to retaining their East African University Games football crown, buoyed by a flawless beginning to their University Football League (UFL) campaign.
The Saints, under the guidance of coach Eric Kisuze, secured their second consecutive win by edging newcomers Metropolitan International University 2-1 at Nakivubo Stadium over the weekend. That result followed a 2-0 triumph over Kumi University in their opening fixture, leaving the side with a maximum six points at the summit of Group A.
Building Momentum
The back-to-back victories have injected confidence into the Nkozi camp as they juggle domestic league commitments with preparations for the East African University Games, where they will defend the football title they claimed previously. Kisuze's men have shown early-season sharpness, combining solid defensive organisation with efficient finishing.
Against Metropolitan International University, the Saints demonstrated the kind of resilience that will be crucial in both competitions. After taking the lead, they withstood pressure from the newcomers before sealing the three points with a second goal, ultimately holding on for a narrow but deserved victory.
Group A Control
The six-point haul puts Nkozi in a commanding position in Group A, though the coach is expected to rotate his squad carefully to manage the demands of a congested fixture list. The UFL serves as vital preparation for the regional showpiece, where Ugandan universities will aim to assert their dominance against East African rivals.
Nkozi's perfect start contrasts with the struggles of Kumi University and Metropolitan International University, both of whom are still searching for their first points. For the Saints, however, the focus remains squarely on maintaining momentum and fine-tuning their squad ahead of the East African Games title defence.
With the UFL campaign still in its early stages, Kisuze will be pleased with the winning mentality his players have displayed. The challenge now is to sustain that form as the stakes rise in the coming weeks.
