We fell to a narrow 0-1 defeat against Express FC in a tightly contested match. Despite a valiant effort, particularly from goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan, who was named the LINQSOFT Player of the Match, we could not find a way past a resolute Express side, with Ali Ismael’s early strike proving the difference.
First Half: Early Setback and Ochan’s Heroics
The match sparked to life in the third minute when Express’ Ali Ismael fired the first shot, a fierce effort that sailed just over the bar. NEC responded swiftly, with Kizza Musta delivering a pinpoint cross to Jarieko James, whose header, unfortunately, cleared the crossbar in the 10th minute, keeping the score level.
Express capitalized on their early momentum in the 13th minute. A thunderous shot from an Express attacker crashed against the crossbar, and Ismael was quickest to react, tapping home the rebound to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Our defence struggled to contain Express’ attacking intent, but goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan stood tall. In the 33rd minute, Ochan with his agility at play pulled off a stunning save, tipping a close-range effort from a one-on-one situation onto the post and out for a corner.
As the half progressed, Express continued to exploit gaps in NEC’s backline. Three minutes before halftime, a defensive lapse left Ochan exposed, but the keeper’s sharp reflexes thwarted another goal-scoring opportunity, smothering a loose ball to keep the deficit at one. Just before the break, Ochan’s bravery was on display again as he raced out of his box to intercept a through ball, denying an Express forward who had beaten the offside trap. His heroics ensured we went into halftime trailing by only a single goal.
Second Half: Changes but No Breakthrough
NEC emerged for the second half with renewed vigor, making five substitutions to inject fresh energy into the side. Marvin Kawuma, Paul Mucureezi, Allan Mugalu, Cromwel Rwothomio, and Joseph Sseremba replaced Jarieko James, Emmanuel Kulanga, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Innocent Media Ronald, and Emmanuel Ajo. The changes sparked a period of sustained pressure, with NEC pushing for an equalizer, but Express’ defence held firm, repelling wave after wave of attacks.
Warren Buule came on for Jacob Okao, who had earlier been booked to solidify our defence. However, the physical battle in midfield saw Marvin Kawuma also pick up a yellow card as NEC fought to regain control. Despite our second half dominance in possession and territory, our final ball lacked precision, and clear-cut chances were scarce.
Express remained dangerous on the counter, but Ochan continued to be a commanding presence. His ability to transition from goalkeeper to makeshift central defender was pivotal, as he repeatedly ventured outside his 18-yard box to clear dangerous long balls that caught NEC’s defense off guard. Ochan’s heroics included three crucial one-on-one saves, keeping his side in the contest until the final whistle.
Despite our relentless efforts in the second half, Express’ early goal proved decisive, and the match ended in a 1-0 defeat for the home side.
Looking Ahead
We will look to bounce back in the second round when we face Express again on September 9, 2025, at Hamza Stadium. The match, set to kick off at 7:00 PM, will be televised live on FUFA TV, offering NEC a chance to overturn this result.
Lineups and Substitutions
NEC Starting XI
Substitutions (Second Half):
🔛 Marvin Kawuma, Paul Mucureezi, Allan Mugalu, Cromwel Rwothomio, Joseph Sseremba
📴 Jarieko James, Emmanuel Kulanga, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Innocent Media Ronald, Emmanuel Ajo
🔛 Warren Buule (for Jacob Okao)
Bookings: Jacob Okao, Marvin Kawuma
LINQSOFT Player of the Match: Benjamin Ochan
We will regroup and refocus as we prepare to challenge, and turn our fortunes around in the return leg.