UPL 2024-25 | Results
- NEC 1-0 UPDF
- Police 1-1 Bright Stars
Rashid Okocha was on target as NEC edged UPDF in a 1-0 hard-fought victory in the Uganda Premier League at MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, on Tuesday.
It was NEC’s third straight victory in the 2024-25 campaign following wins against Vipers and Kitara on matchday one and two.
In the third minute, Ibrahim Thembo’s inviting freekick created havoc in UPDF’s defence before it was cleared away by Ibrahim Kirya.
On different occasions, Christopher Tebandeke’s long throw-in asked NEC’s backline several questions, but custodian Hannington Ssebwalunyo dealt with it quite well.
UPDF custodian Yusuf Wasswa made a massive save to block James Jarieko’s fierce long-range effort in the 34th minute.
After the break, the hosts made it clear, keeping on the front foot as they looked for the opener in the end-to-end encounter.
Okocha’s belter in the 86th ended UPDF’s fight and resilience as the home fans erupted in joy and excitement.
UPDF returned to action on Tuesday, October 1, as they take on UPDF while NEC will be hosted by Express at Hamz Stadium two days later.
How they lined up
NEC XI: Hannington Ssebwalunyo (G.K), Jeriga Atendele, Isma Kawawulo, Ibrahim Kiyemba (Captain), Calvin Barni, Ibrahim Thembo, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Ssebaggala, James Jarieko, Cromwell Rwothomio, Rashid Okocha
UPDF XI: Yusuf Wasswa (G.K), Christopher Kawagu, Ibrahim Kiirya, Bernard Muwanga (Captain), Christopher Tebandeke, Ronald Kayondo, Samson Andrew Kigozi, Frank Mugisa, Musa Mudde, Bashir Faridi, Samuel Ssekamatte Kayongo
