It’s anticipated to be an exciting afternoon at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru as NEC prepares to face Busoga United in a reverse fixture, having convincingly won the first encounter by 5 goals to nil.
After a narrow 2-1 victory in the Uganda Cup against Northern Division in Mbale, NEC is eager to replicate the dominant performance from the first round.
A win in this match would propel NEC to the 6th place on the log, two points above Express and just a point below 5th place Maroons, making it a crucial fixture for their standings.
January Transfer Highlights:
NEC strengthened the squad during the transfer window with notable additions:
1. Benjamin Ochan (Goalkeeper): The experienced goalkeeper, who completed his contract with KCCA FC last July, brings leadership and vast experience from playing in South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, and for the National Team. Ochan expressed his excitement about returning to competitive football.
2. Atendele Geriga (Right Back): Joining from Arua Hills, Geriga terminated his contract by mutual consent after 2.5 seasons, during which he contributed to Arua Hills’ successful run in the StarTimes Uganda Premier. Geriga has also played for Wakiso Giants and Onduparaka.
3. Ibrahim Kiyemba (Defender): Former Gaddafi’s captain, Kiyemba joined to strengthen the defense, bringing experience from Wakiso Giants, Vipers, KCCA FC, Lweza, and Stellenbosch in South Africa.
4. Gadafi Wahab (Midfielder): The former Arua Hills captain, known for his fierce shot and ball intelligence, signed with NEC. Wahab has previously featured for Wakiso Giants and Onduparaka FC.
The Head Coach emphasizes the importance of these signings to address defensive vulnerabilities and adds experience to the squad.
While the seasoned additions aimed to fortify the team, there remains hope for emerging talent from the U17 squad, as mentioned by the Head Coach. The integration of young players into the senior squad was anticipated, marking a holistic approach to team development.
Facts and Statistics:
– This encounter against Busoga United marks NEC’s second-ever meeting, with NEC winning the first encounter 5-0.
– The previous match featured four different scorers, including a brace from the captain, a penalty by Okocha, a goal from Kayanja, and a disputed fifth goal credited as an own goal instead of being awarded to Mugalu Allan.
Coach Mbalangu’s Insights:
Coach Mbalangu shed light on the strategic focus on defense in the transfer window, emphasizing the need to address the conceding rate that plagued the team in the first round. The acquisition of seasoned players aimed to instil maturity and stability in the squad, countering the challenges posed by youthful players.
Regarding the opening second-round fixture against Busoga United, Mbalangu acknowledged the significance of the challenge, cautioning against complacency. Highlighting Busoga United’s home victories against Kitara and KCCA, he emphasized the need to approach the match with utmost seriousness, considering the ambitions of our club.
Injury and Suspension Updates:
– NEC will be without Kelvin Barni for two weeks due to a head injury sustained in the Uganda Cup game.
– Thembo is recovering from a hamstring injury from the last game of the first round.
– Ssebagala and Wahab will be unavailable due to suspension.
The game kicks off at 1500 hours, exclusively broadcasted on FUFA TV via StarTimes, with commentary by O.T., a familiar voice from the class of ’92, Mr. Otai Peter. Football enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting clash as NEC strives for a positive start to the second round.