NEC FC will be seeking an immediate return to winning ways when they host league newcomers Ntugasaze FC at MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, on Matchday 8 of the 2026/27 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season.
The Diehards head into the encounter determined to put their recent setback against BUL FC behind them and return to winning ways in front of their home supporters.
NEC FC suffered a 2-1 defeat away to BUL FC in their previous outing. Despite creating several opportunities, the Diehards could only find the back of the net through Marvin Oshaba’s effort, leaving them without a point from the trip to Njeru.
Despite the setback, NEC FC remain firmly in the title race, occupying third position on the 18-team league table with 14 points from seven matches. The Diehards have registered four victories, two draws and one defeat, scoring 12 goals and conceding just four in the process.
With the season still in its early stages, maximum points against Ntugasaze FC would provide an opportunity for NEC FC to strengthen their position on the table and reduce the gap between themselves and league leaders BUL FC. The Diehards remain focused on their ambition of competing for silverware this campaign, making Saturday’s encounter an important opportunity to get their title push back on track.
Meanwhile, Ntugasaze FC arrive at Lugogo in search of a second victory of the campaign as they battle to climb out of the relegation zone.
The Brewers currently occupy 16th position on the league table, having collected just three points from six matches. They have managed one victory and suffered five defeats, scoring three goals while conceding 13.
Their only league victory came on October 7, when they edged Mbarara City FC 1-0. Ntugasaze FC missed the previous matchday after their scheduled fixture against Kitara FC was affected by the latter’s CAF Confederation Cup commitments.
The league newcomers will therefore be eager to return to action with a positive result as they look to improve their standing and build momentum in the top flight.
However, facing a NEC FC side determined to respond to defeat will present a significant challenge for the visitors, who must improve their attacking output and defensive organisation to stand a chance of taking points from Lugogo.
Team News
NEC FC will continue to be without defender Warren Buule, who remains sidelined through injury.
Defender Mustafa Mujuzi has resumed light training but will not be available for the encounter as he continues his recovery.
The rest of the squad is fit and available for selection, giving the technical team options as the Diehards prepare for the important fixture.
What the Manager Said
Head-to-Head
The Matchday 8 encounter will mark the first-ever meeting between NEC FC and Ntugasaze FC in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
With no previous league meetings to draw from, both sides will be looking to make a statement as they pursue contrasting objectives. NEC FC will be aiming to maintain their push towards the top of the table, while Ntugasaze FC seek valuable points in their fight to move away from the relegation zone.
Matchday Details
NEC FC Vs Ntugasaze FC
Competition: StarTimes Uganda Premier League 2026/27
Matchday: 8
Date: Tuesday, October 27th, 2026
Venue: MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo