NEC FC secured a convincing 3-1 victory over KCCA FC in a thrilling StarTimes Uganda Premier League second-round opener at MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, on February 13, 2026.
Debutant Richard Basangwa stole the headlines with a brilliant brace on his first appearance for the Diehards, scoring the opening goal and sealing the win with the third. Joseph Seremba — continuing his reputation as one of the squad’s most consistent performers — restored the lead with a stunning strike after KCCA had briefly equalised through Ivan Ahimbisibwe.
The result saw us overcome a brief second-half setback to claim all three points with resilience and flair, setting a strong tone for the campaign ahead.
Match Summary
KCCA started brightly, pressing high and creating early chances, but NEC’s defence — led by crucial interventions from goalkeeper Ssebwalunyo — stood firm. The hosts grew into the game and took a deserved lead before half-time.
Key Moments
22′ – NEC FC 1-0 KCCA FC: Basangwa announced his arrival in style on debut. He outmuscled his marker before coolly slotting home to give the Diehards the advantage and ignite the home crowd.
27′: Basangwa picked up a yellow card for a tactical foul, but NEC retained composure.
38′: Ssebwalunyo produced a vital punch to clear a dangerous cross.
41′: Kagawa tested the KCCA keeper with a long-range effort that went just wide.
Half-Time: NEC FC 1-0 KCCA FC— The Diehards went in ahead, having controlled much of the first half.
KCCA emerged stronger after the break and found an equaliser early on.
49′ – NEC FC 1-1 KCCA FC: Ahimbisibwe capitalised on a defensive lapse to level the scores, momentarily shifting momentum.
51′: Kiyemba received a yellow card for NEC.
59′: Double change for NEC — Allan Mugalu replaced Obuya, and Joseph Dhata came on for Kagawa to inject fresh energy into the attack.
61′: Seremba cautioned with a yellow.
63’: Mugalu also shown yellow shortly after his introduction.
67′: Seremba went close to restoring the lead, forcing a corner after a good setup from Kagawa.
The Diehards responded strongly.
71′ – NEC FC 2-1 KCCA FC: Seremba delivered under pressure, firing a superb strike into the top-left corner to put NEC back in front. His consistency proved decisive in a key moment.
74′ – NEC FC 3-1 KCCA FC: Basangwa completed his brace just three minutes later with a clinical finish, effectively ending the contest and sending the home fans into raptures.
77′: Shamir Kimwero replaced Daniel Shabene.
88′: Innocent Media came on for Basangwa to help see out the victory.
90′: Four minutes of added time were signalled, and NEC held firm to secure the points.
Linqsoft Man of the Match
Richard Basangwa’s outstanding debut performance — a brace and constant threat — earned him the accolade. Chairman Eng. Brian Buhanda presented the award, worth UGX 200,000, in what was their first meeting.
What’s Next
NEC FC now turn attention to a tough away trip to Vipers SC on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. Kick-off is at 8:00 PM. The Diehards will look to build on this impressive start.