Fort Portal City has clinched a coveted spot in the semifinals of the Tooro Kingdom MTN Amasaza Cup after a commanding 3-0 victory over Bunyangabu County. The match, held at St. Leo’s College playground in Kabura, saw Fort Portal City assert their dominance from the outset, thanks to the exceptional performance of Vincent Ayebale, who netted all three goals.
Ayebale opened the scoring in the 6th minute, giving Fort Portal an early lead. Despite relentless efforts from Bunyangabu County to equalize, they were unable to break through Fort Portal’s resolute defense. Ayebale struck again in the 87th minute and sealed the victory with a final goal in added time, ensuring Fort Portal’s progression to the next stage.
Meddie Nsubuga, Bunyangabu’s goalkeeper, conceded the early goal but continued to put up a valiant fight throughout the match. However, Bunyangabu’s offensive efforts fell short, and Fort Portal’s victory was never in doubt.
Vander Apuuli, head coach of Fort Portal City, praised his team’s collective effort and resilience. “We wanted a win because it was the only sure way of qualifying. I am happy that within a short time of the game our boys had scored that important goal, and in the second half, they sealed the win,” Apuuli said. “My boys have all the confidence, and we want to assure our fans that we shall play in the finals.”
Fort Portal City joins Ntoroko, Mwenge South, and Burahya in the semifinals, with the eliminated teams being Kyaka, Bunyangabu, Mwenge North, Kibaale, and Kitagwenda.
The match was officiated by Harriet Nyakake, the 1st Deputy Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, who expressed her gratitude to MTN Uganda for their sponsorship of the tournament. “I want to appreciate all the participating Tooro Kingdom counties and our sponsors MTN; they have done a very great job in our kingdom,” Nyakake said.
Additionally, Wandela Micheal Enganjani, the Tooro Kingdom Sports Minister, congratulated the qualifying teams and emphasized the importance of health initiatives, urging for continuous HIV/AIDS testing, condom use, and abstinence to combat the spread of the disease. Hon. Kalege Ernest, the county chief of Fort Portal, echoed these sentiments, calling for support of King Oyo’s mission to eradicate AIDS from Tooro Kingdom by 2040.
The Tooro Kingdom MTN Amasaza Cup continues to be a platform not only for showcasing football talent but also for promoting vital health messages. As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for the semifinal clashes, with Fort Portal City confidently aiming for a spot in the finals.
