Kalanda Scores Back-to-Back, Mugume and Kazibwe Shine on Return
Entebbe Works playground, June 1st 2025: Match Day 25 delivered exactly as expected — passion, grit, and vital points in a fierce contest between two sides fighting for survival and promotion.
It marked the return of Gaddafi FC’s former head coach, Allan Kabonge, now desperate to save his new side, Arua Hill SC, from relegation and equally determined to get one over his former employers. But The Printers, still reeling from a shock defeat in Jinja just seven days earlier, were equally desperate for all three points to stay in the promotion race.
Leading the line for Gaddafi was the returning Davis Kasirye, back in the squad after a long absence. Behind him, Sseninde, Kawawa, and Bithum offered support in attack. Kakaire and Amayo held the midfield, while the backline comprised Savio, Enzama, Male, and Namwanja — shielding goalkeeper Ssekeba.
The game kicked off under clear skies but on a slippery surface due to earlier showers. From the first whistle, Mukasa’s men stuck to a direct approach, using long balls to exploit Kasirye’s aerial strength. Gaddafi dominated possession and pinned the visitors in their own half, though clear-cut chances were scarce in the opening period. The major setback in the first half came when Amayo picked up a muscle injury and had to be replaced by Matovu in the 20th minute.
The second half saw tactical changes with Kazibwe and Mugume coming on for Kakaire and Bithum. Both teams had their moments, but Gaddafi created more danger. The breakthrough finally came in the 85th minute when Kawawa’s shot was poorly dealt with by the goalkeeper, allowing Kalanda to react quickest and head home, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
Just four minutes later, Batiibwe, who had slotted in seamlessly at right-back, picked out Mugume with a brilliant through ball. The midfielder calmly slotted it past the keeper to seal a much-needed 2–0 victory.
The win lifts Gaddafi FC back to 3rd place on 43 points, level with Paidha, and just five behind joint leaders Buhimba and Calvary. With only three matches left, next up is a trip to Masindi to face Booma FC — a side already staring relegation in the face.