The race for the 2026 USSSA Boys’ Football Championship title intensified on Saturday as Amus College School and Kyadondo S.S secured their places in the quarter-finals, joining early qualifiers London College Nansana and Buddo S.S after a gripping round of 16 in Lira City.
Amus College School needed a moment of precision to edge past a resilient Mentor S.S side, claiming a narrow 1-0 victory at Dr Obote College playground.
Ivan Otim proved decisive, his superbly struck 21st-minute free-kick separating the two sides in a contest defined by tactical discipline and high intensity.
Guided by former Uganda Cranes international Richard Malinga, the Bukedea-based outfit demonstrated composure under pressure, particularly against a home-backed opponent.
Malinga praised his players’ mentality after the match, emphasizing their readiness to confront a formidable atmosphere and deliver qualification.
“We knew the kind of opponent we were facing being the home side with a big crowd. We had the right mentality and we are glad to qualify for the quarter-finals.” — Richard Malinga, Amus College School head coach
In a parallel mid-morning encounter, Kyadondo S.S displayed resilience and composure, overcoming Nkoma S.S via a penalty shootout after a goalless stalemate in regulation time.
Their calm execution from the spot secured progression, underlining their growing credentials in the tournament.
Earlier in the day, London College Nansana had also relied on penalties to advance, defeating Mbale Progressive S.S 4-2 following a barren draw.
Meanwhile, defending champions Buddo S.S maintained their title charge with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kawempe Muslim S.S, courtesy of a clinical brace from Ambrose Aboy, while Ukasha Kimbowa netted a consolation for the latter.
The quarter-final line-up now presents two compelling fixtures.
Kyadondo S.S will lock horns with reigning champions Buddo S.S in a high-stakes showdown, while Amus College School face London College Nansana in what promises to be a tactical battle.
Attention now shifts to the remaining round of 16 fixtures scheduled for Saturday afternoon, which will complete the quarter-final bracket and further shape the narrative of an increasingly competitive championship.
