Tito Okello’s goal in the eighth minute was all that mattered as Acholi region progressed to this year’s FUFA drum finals, eliminating Bugisu, 1-0 at the Pece War Memorial Stadium, Gulu.
The forward beat Bugisu goalkeeper Edward Kasibante from an acute angle, to send the exuberant fans who turned up in huge numbers to support their home province.
Acholi had to hold their nerves for pretty much the entire game, as Bugisu threw everything they had in search of the leveler, but all in vain.
Hudu Mulikyi and company defended with absolute resolute to keep their advantage in tact and there was no objection as the former received the man-of-the-match accolade for his defensive prowess.
Acholi now wait the winner between Lango Province and Bukedi Province in the other semifinal that will be played at the John Akii Bua Stadium on Sunday, December 8th.
Tito Okello shields the ball from Bugisu’s defender Ibrahim Massa | FUFA Image
Bukedi nearly got eliminated from the tournament after being accused by Buganda Province of fielding an ineligible player in Yaseri Waibi but successfully won the case and were superb throughout the quarters.
But against Lango, who like Acholi will also be playing in front of their home crowd in Lira, Bukedi face a tricky and stern test.
Lango, whose strength lie in teamwork and determination will be playing in their first semifinal while Bukedi will be hoping to better their record last season, if they can book a slot in the finals.
Lango will hope fans favourite Bronson Nsubuga raises to the occasion like he did in the first two quarter final matches against Bugisu and Busoga that saw him be named man of the match.
Bukedi on the other hand will place their hopes in David Owori, defender Benson Tahomera, goalkeeper Derrick Emukule, Fredson Gwoto and Ibrahim Pengere.
The FUFA Drum finals will be played on Tuesday December 10th at the John Akii Bua Stadium. Buganda Province were the champions of the inaugural tournament in 2018.
