In the upcoming matchday 9 of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, NEC is set to face off against Kitara at Masindi Stadium in a highly anticipated 16:00 hours Sanyuka-televised game on 2nd December 2023.
Tied on points and separated by goal difference, this encounter promises to be a clash of titans, especially as NEC seeks its first-ever win over Kitara, having suffered defeats in both encounters during the FUFA Big League last season.
Form Guide:
NEC has shown resilience, collecting 16 points from the possible 24 in the 8 games played so far. However, November fixtures saw us only amassing 4 points, facing a loss against Gaddafi, securing a win against Maroons, and drawing against Wakiso Giants.
On the other side, Kitara has mirrored NEC’s form, also gathering 16 points out of the possible 24. Their November performance included a 2-all draw against URA, coupled with losses against Maroons and Bul.
What the Coaches Say:
Brian Ssenyondo:
“We’re entering this game on the back of a loss from Bul, and despite tough away games, we believe we’re a tough team too. While our November run wasn’t ideal, we were often the better team. Despite BUL scoring two goals in the first twenty minutes, we played better, the same with Maroons and it was a fair draw with URA. We are going to put up a fight because we know NEC is among the best teams since the league started. We have a couple of injuries and there those players who are not 100% but can can contribute to the game.
Hussein Mbalangu:
The mood in the camp is high; this is a game we’ve been waiting for. The team is motivated and ready to get started. Kiberu Tonny making the squad for the second consecutive time is significant. Rwothomio is back in the squad, having missed the Wakiso Giants game and scored twice in a build-up friendly against MUBS.”
On the Match…Hussein Mbalangu acknowledges Kitara’s strength, stating, “Kitara is a very good team, well-motivated, and we know it’s a tough match. We expect to score, given our goal tally in November.
Last Meetings:
This will be the teams’ third meeting, having previously faced off twice in the big league. NEC is seeking revenge after suffering a 2-0 defeat in Hoima and a painful loss in Bugoloobi.
TV Schedules and Time:
The game kicks off at 16:00 hours and will be broadcasted live on Sanyuka Prime.
Travelling Squad:
Mbalangu has named a 23-man squad, with the only notable absence being Odongo Gideon, who sustained a last-minute injury during a build-up game.
