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The Cops rallied in the second half with goals from Ronald Ssempala and an unfortunate own goal from Pascal Ngoobi to secure a return to the competition’s semi finals for the first time since 2021.
Police FC pulled off a stunning comeback to secure a 2-1 victory against holders BUL FC in the Stanbic Uganda Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.
The game played at the Kavumba Recreation Grounds, saw the visitors take an early lead through Antony Mayanja’s superb strike in the second minute.
But the Cops rallied in the second half with goals from Ronald Ssempala and an unfortunate own goal from Pascal Ngoobi to secure a return to the competition’s semi finals for the first time since 2021.
It was a classic tale of two halves, with BUL dominating the first half even after Mayanja put them in the lead.
Ricahrd Wandyaka came close to doubling their lead in the 21st minute, before former BUL goalkeeper Davis Mutebi did well to tip the ball off Mayanja who was poised to head home Martin Aprem’s cross.
Ssempala headed wide for Police in the 30th minute, an early indication of how quickly the dynamics of the game could change.
And indeed, the odds shifted for the hosts in the second half, who found the leveler in the 58th minute as Ngoobi was at the end of an unfortunate passage of play.
The defender conceded a free kick inside the Police half, but a long ball into the penalty area was glanced towards goal by Jackson Ssemugabi.
The initial effort bounced off the cross bar and was deflected into the back of the net off Ngoobi who had little time to react.
Police FC continued to press forward and got their deserved winner in the 64th minute. Substitute Dennis Kalanzi’s cross from the left was met by a strong header from Ssempala.
Despite BUL FC's best efforts, they were unable to find an equalizer, and the match ended 2-1 in favour of Police.
The defeat builds on the pyramid of pressure around interim coach Simeon Masaba who is yet to win a game since he took charge of the club since replacing Alex Isabirye, who won the club the Uganda Cup last season.
The quarter finals will continue with Vipers SC hosting Calvary FC at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende on Friday.
Adjumani Town Council will host Express on Saturday, before KCCA FC attempt to reach the competitions’ semi finals for the first time since 2018 when they visit Soltilo Bright Stars at the Kavumba Recreation Grounds on Sunday.
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