Tuesday 14th Jan, 2025 Pajule Primary School Playground, Pader District: Gaddafi FC edged past Pajule Lions FC in a hard-fought encounter to secure a place in the Round of 32 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
After traveling north to Pader for the tie, Gaddafi FC handed first starts to Bithum Nsumbiano and Farouk Matovu. The hosts, backed by a lively home crowd, struck first, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to take an early lead that sent the crowd into raptures.
Gaddafi FC responded swiftly with Kakaire pouncing on a goalkeeper error, bundling home from close range to restore parity. Moments later, Bithum Nsumbiano made his mark, latching onto Lubowa’s perfectly weighted through ball and calmly slotting past the Pajule keeper to give Gaddafi FC the lead.
The game remained tense and evenly contested, with Pajule Lions pressing for an equalizer. Despite the hosts’ spirited efforts and creating more chances, Gaddafi FC’s defense held firm to see out the win.
The victory secures Gaddafi FC’s progression to the next round of the competition, with the draw for the Round of 32 now eagerly awaited. Attention now shifts to league duties, as Gaddafi FC prepares to host Kataka FC in a crucial Big League match on Matchday 14.
Scorers:
- Pajule Lions FC: Opio Nelson
- Gaddafi FC: Kakaire, Bithum Nsumbiano