Bukedea Comprehensive School, the reigning East Africa Schools Championship champions, boosted their qualification chances with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kawempe Muslim SS in the final group match of the day.
The result gives them a near-certain 99% chance of advancing to the quarter-finals, as they continue their quest to retain the prestigious title in 2025.
The match, played in intense conditions, saw Bukedea edge Kawempe thanks to a first-half strike from Ssentongo Wycliffe.
Despite an evenly contested game with moments of brilliance from both teams, Bukedea’s experience proved key, with the victory leaving Kawempe Muslim SS with a slim chance of qualification.
Earlier in the day, Bukedea had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Lira’s Mentor SS, in a match that was a rollercoaster of emotions.
Bukedea’s goals came courtesy of a penalty from Busingye Amis before the break, and a quick-fire strike from Denis Ssewagudde in the second half.
However, Mentor SS responded through a bizarre own goal from Ryan Giggs Osinya and a second-half equalizer by Epila Emmanuel.
Despite the draw, Bukedea’s four points from two matches place them in a strong position to reach the next stage.
With one group match remaining, Bukedea needs just a point against hosts Janan Secondary School to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Their 1-0 win over Kawempe Muslim SS effectively handed them the edge in a tight group, leaving the Kawempe side hoping for a point in their final match against Mentor SS.
Kawempe’s chances still hang by a thread, but they have some hope, with one more opportunity to qualify should they secure at least a draw against Mentor SS in their last group-stage outing.
Before facing Bukedea, Kawempe had registered a solid 2-0 victory over the hosts, Janan Secondary School.
Day 1 Group Stage Results:
Kawempe Muslim SS 2-0 Janan SS
Bukedea Comprehensive 2-2 Mentor SS
St. Mary’s Boarding SS 5-1 Fortportal SS
Mentor SS 3-0 Janan SS
Buddo SS 1-0 Kyadondo SS
Kawempe Muslim SS 0-1 Bukedea Comprehensive
Uganda Martyrs 2-1 St. Mary’s Boarding Secondary School Kitende
Buddo SS 2-0 Standard High School Zana
