NEC FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UPDF FC at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, on Tuesday afternoon in a Matchday 10 encounter of the Startimes Uganda Premier League.
Fahad Bayo was once again the difference-maker, scoring the decisive goal for the second consecutive game to hand the Diehards maximum points and keep their title ambitions firmly on track.
Coming into the encounter, NEC FC were seeking maximum points to move to the summit of the league table. However, they faced a familiar face in the opposition dugout, with former NEC FC tactician Hussein Mbalangu leading UPDF FC.
The Diehards started on the front foot, with James Jarieko making a promising run early in the game before pulling the trigger, only for his effort to narrowly miss the target.
Despite the early threat from NEC FC, UPDF FC gradually grew into the game, enjoying more possession for the longest spells of the first half as both sides battled for control.
NEC FC suffered an early setback when Gideon Odongo was forced off through injury in the 40th minute, prompting Coach Kaddu Badru Mukasa to introduce Enock Tumwesigye.
The two sides went into the halftime break locked at 0-0 after two minutes of additional time, with neither side managing to find the breakthrough.
At the restart, Coach Kaddu made another change, introducing Enrique Lubwama for Daniel Shabene before the second-half whistle was blown.
The Diehards wasted little time in making their presence felt as Fahad Bayo produced a moment of brilliance just two minutes into the second half.
In the 47th minute, Bayo let fly from range, unleashing a powerful strike that flew straight into the roof of the net to give NEC FC the lead.
The goal lifted the atmosphere at Lugogo as the Diehards took control of the contest, with Bayo once again proving his importance in front of goal.
NEC FC came close to doubling their advantage in the 57th minute when Ibrahim Musa delivered a corner into the box. Bayo rose highest to meet the delivery, but his header narrowly went wide.
With the game entering its final stages, Coach Kaddu made further changes in a bid to maintain the team’s energy and protect the advantage.
Marvin Oshaba replaced James Jarieko in the 64th minute, while Shamir Kimwero and Emmanuel Ajo were introduced in the 73rd minute for Allan Mugalu and Fahad Bayo.
The Diehards dealt with another blow in the 83rd minute when defender Jacob Okao went down following a foul on his leg.
Having already utilised all their substitutions, NEC FC were forced to see out the remainder of the game with ten men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Diehards showed resilience and determination, working tirelessly to keep UPDF FC at bay.
Ibrahim Musa was booked in the 89th minute as the tension mounted, with four minutes of additional time added to the contest.
NEC FC remained disciplined at the back and held on to their slender advantage until the final whistle, securing a valuable three points in front of their home supporters.
What the Manager said
Following a stellar performance at the back, Ibrahim Musa was named the Linqsoft Aluminum Man of the Match for his outstanding display.
The result sees NEC FC remain second on the 18-team Uganda Premier League table, level on 23 points with leaders BUL FC but separated by the head-to-head record.
The victory further strengthens the Diehards’ position in the title race as they continue to push for the summit of the league.
Next Up
The Uganda Premier League will take a short break due to the international window.
NEC FC will return to action after the break when they travel to Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, to face Maroons FC on Thursday, 18th November 2026, in their next league assignment.
The Diehards will be looking to carry their winning momentum into the encounter as they continue their pursuit of the league title.