Rubangakane Atube’s 15th-minute strike secured Gulu University a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ndejje University, extending the Elephants’ impressive record of away victories in the Pepsi University Football League (UFL).
The Northern Uganda-based side demonstrated defensive resilience to withstand sustained pressure from the hosts, with goalkeeper Jackson Otim producing a crucial second-half save to preserve their slender advantage.
Atube broke the deadlock after just 15 minutes, finishing off a move initiated by Otim to give Gulu an early lead and set the tone for a fiercely contested encounter.
Ndejje enjoyed considerable possession but struggled to translate their dominance into clear-cut scoring opportunities against a well-organised Gulu defence.
The visitors remained dangerous on the counterattack, and Atube nearly doubled their advantage before the interval after capitalising on a defensive error.
However, his effort lacked sufficient power, allowing a Ndejje defender to clear the ball off the goal line.
The hosts emerged with greater urgency after the break, intensifying their search for an equaliser and forcing Gulu to defend deep.
Their best opportunity arrived in the 65th minute when Mutaka released Baraza, whose powerful effort towards the top corner was brilliantly tipped away by Otim.
Ndejje continued to press, but the Elephants remained disciplined, frustrating their opponents with determined defending.
Gulu threatened to put the contest beyond reach in the 75th minute when Oketayot beat a defender inside the penalty area before setting up Bushra.
However, the resulting effort struck the post, allowing the Ndejje goalkeeper to gather the rebound.
The hosts could not find a breakthrough as Gulu held firm to claim maximum points.
Another milestone on the road
The victory marked Gulu University’s third away triumph in the UFL since joining the competition in 2014.
Their first came in 2017, when they eliminated Busitema University 3-2 in a quarter-final encounter at Busitema.
Six years later, Brian Odongo’s 88th-minute strike secured a 1-0 victory over the International University of East Africa (IUEA) in 2023.
Atube’s decisive contribution has now added another memorable chapter to the Elephants’ away-day history.
Meanwhile, the Pepsi UFL continues tomorrow, with 2025/26 losing finalists YMCA Comprehensive hosting newcomers Seeta University in Buwambo.
