Sunday, 17th November 2024, 4 PM at Kigezi HomeBoyz Al-Madinah Stadium (formerly Ndorwa Playground).
Kigezi HomeBoyz FC claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory over Kataka FC in a tightly contested FUFA Big League match. Nkurunungi Ashirafu’s late strike in added time sealed the win, sending the home crowd into wild celebrations.
The game started at a steady pace, with both teams exercising caution and prioritizing defensive organization. By the 10-minute mark, neither side had created a clear-cut opportunity, although Kataka’s defensive strategy of tightly marking Charles Waibi prsoved effective in nullifying Kigezi’s creativity.
As the game progressed, Kigezi HomeBoyz began finding their rhythm. In the 20th minute, Karim delivered a delightful cross that Seremba Joseph flicked toward Elia Asiimwe. Elia’s shot was blocked by a defender, denying what looked like a promising chance.
The best moment of the first half came in the 30th minute when Kigezi earned a free kick just outside the box. Waibi stepped up and curled a magnificent effort that rattled the crossbar, leaving fans holding their breath. Despite continued pressure, Kataka’s defense held firm, and the teams went into halftime locked at 0-0.
The second half began with tactical changes from Kigezi HomeBoyz. Coach Tushabe Denis introduced Balyegusa Jerlad and Nkurunungi Ashirafu, replacing Hakim Dhamulira and Aniku Bushira. The adjustments brought new energy to the team. Seremba moved to the number nine role, Jerlad took up the number eight position, and Ashirafu slotted in on the wing.
The changes immediately paid dividends as Kigezi increased their attacking intensity. Kataka, however, remained resolute in defense, resorting to time-wasting tactics to frustrate their opponents. By the 65th minute, Kigezi had created multiple half-chances, but the elusive breakthrough remained out of reach.
As the clock ticked into added time, the home side’s relentless effort finally bore fruit. In the 91st minute, Seremba executed an audacious scorpion kick that sent the ball directly to Ashirafu. Without taking a touch, Ashirafu expertly curled a low shot into the bottom corner, leaving the Kataka goalkeeper helpless. The stadium erupted in jubilation as players and fans celebrated the crucial goal.
At halftime, Kigezi HomeBoyz took a moment to honor Mzee Zatwoshaho James with a Lifetime Membership Certificate, recognizing his unwavering support and contributions to sports in the Kigezi region.
Speaking after the match, Coach Tushabe Denis provided insights into the tactical adjustments that changed the game. “We needed to be flexible in our approach. Moving Seremba to the number nine role, with Jerlad in midfield and Ashirafu on the wing, gave us better attacking options. It was a calculated risk, and it paid off.”
Man of the Match, Nkurunungi Ashirafu, expressed his delight at scoring the winner. “I am so happy to have helped the team. The goal was a team effort, and the pass from Seremba was perfect. I’m proud to have made the fans happy.”
The victory lifts Kigezi HomeBoyz FC further up, now sitting 6th, Just 4 points away the peak of the log, as they prepare for their next match against Kaaro Karungi FC on Sunday, 24th November 2024, at Kyamate Stadium in Ntungamo.
