We visit Express FC today at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo for the decisive second leg of the FUFA Super 8 2025 first-round tie, with the Red Eagles holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg. After an early goal sealed Express’ victory in the opening encounter, we will battle to overturn the deficit and claim victory under the floodlights.
The Stakes
Trailing 1-0, we face a must-win scenario to advance in the FIFA Super 8. Express, buoyed by their first-leg triumph, will look to defend their lead and capitalize on their historical edge, having won three of the last five meetings between the two sides. However, we have a glimmer of hope, Coach Mbalangu highlighted during the pre-match press conference that his team has a pattern of bouncing back in second legs after losing the first. “All the times we have played against Express, they have been winning the first half of the tie, and we later win the second tie,” Mbalangu noted. “This is something we are working on to stop. It has been happening over and over again, and we can’t just let it continue.”
Siraje Ssentamu’s Arrival
The headline news in our camp is the timely signing of Siraje Ssentamu, one of the most decorated players in Vipers SC history, who has joined the club on a two-year deal until 2027. The seasoned midfielder, known for his trophy-winning pedigree, is set to join Kimwero Shamir in the defensive midfield role as the squad is fortified for the challenges ahead.
Siraje Ssentamu Profile
Contract: Two years (until 2027)
Career breakdown:
2009: Promoted to Vipers SC (then Bunamwaya) from St. Mary’s Kitende, the club’s feeder academy.
2011/12: Joined Entebbe Young FC in the FUFA Big League, leading them to the title under Coach Video Anyawu Frank, defeating Kiira Young at Namboole to secure promotion to the Uganda Premier League (UPL).
2012/13: Played one more season with Entebbe Young in the UPL before returning to Vipers in 2013.
2015: Part of Vipers’ squad that clinched their second UPL title, a memorable triumph in Buikwe.
2017–2019: Moved to URA FC for two seasons, playing along Cromwel who he will again be playing along side at NEC FC.
2019–2025: Returned to Vipers SC, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of their success, including their historic doubles in 2023 and 2025.
Accolades: Ssentamu’s trophy cabinet boasts multiple UPL titles, cup triumphs, and individual accolades, making him Vipers’ most decorated player. His experience and winning mentality are expected to bolster NEC’s midfield and inspire the squad.
The game kicks off at 7:00 PM local time, with live coverage on FUFA TV featuring Lawrence Bwanika in the commentary box at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo.