Defending champions Buddo Secondary School kept their title defence firmly on track with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kawempe Muslim in the Round of 16 at the ongoing USSSA U20 Boys Football Championship.
Played on Saturday at Dr. Obote College grounds, the contest lived up to its billing as Buddo were pushed to the limit by a spirited Kawempe side that refused to go down without a fight.
Ambrose Aboy proved decisive on the day, netting twice to send the reigning champions into the quarterfinals.
His first came early in the 13th minute, a modest effort that somehow slipped past the Kawempe goalkeeper to hand Buddo an early advantage.
Kawempe Muslim, however, emerged stronger after the break and gradually grew into the contest.
Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when captain Ukasha Kimbowa produced a thunderous free-kick that beat Buddo goalkeeper Edirisa Waibi to restore parity.
With momentum briefly shifting, Buddo responded in champion fashion.
Just six minutes later, Aboy struck again—this time reacting quickest after a goalkeeping error allowed Tom Ssesazi to tee him up for a simple finish, restoring Buddo’s lead.
Despite late pressure from Kawempe, Buddo held firm to seal progression, underlining their pedigree and experience at this stage of the competition.
The victory sends Buddo SS into the quarterfinals, where they will face either Kyadondo Secondary School or Nkoma Secondary School as they continue their quest to retain the national crown.
