Joseph Data scored the only goal against Busoga United as we progressed to our first ever quarterfinals of the Stanbic Uganda Cup. The wingback continues his impressive form, and the goal against Busoga United brings his overall tally to 9 goals, with 4 coming in the Stanbic Uganda Cup and the remaining 5 in the StarTimes Premier League.
What happened:
Following an emphatic 5-1 win against Acholi United in the round of 32, we were drawn against Busoga United, whom we had completed a league double over. We made no mistake as we also eliminated them from the prestigious Stanbic Uganda Cup to reach our first-ever quarterfinal. Now, we await our next opponent through the draws.
How it happened:
In a closely contested match, both teams struggled to break the deadlock in the early stages. A notable opportunity arose from a well-delivered ball into the box, with Okocha setting up Dhata for a powerful shot that unfortunately went off target. Moments later, Mugalu unleashed a shot from the edge of the box, but it sailed over the bar.
Okocha drew a foul at the edge of the box, leading to a free-kick taken by Gaddafi, but the opposition managed to clear the danger. The game remained goalless, with Benjamin Ochan making a crucial save to keep the score level.
As the first half progressed, Ochan found himself fouled in the box and required medical attention. Simultaneously, Mugalu was also brought down and received treatment from the medics. Ssesaazi took the subsequent free-kick, but it went wide. Dhata attempted a long-range shot, but it sailed over the bar.
The turning point came when Dhata capitalized on a defensive mix-up, seizing a loose ball to powerfully slot it into the back of the net, giving NEC a 1-0 lead at the 40th-minute mark.
Shortly before halftime, Kiyemba received treatment for a head collision but returned to the field. The halftime whistle blew with the team enjoying a slim lead.
The second half saw several changes, with Thembo replacing Wahab and Kayanja coming on for Okocha. Odongo and Allan received medical attention as the game progressed.
Kulanga made his debut, taking Mugalu’s place, while Captain Kavuma replaced Rwothomio. Dhata, having made a significant impact, was booked for a challenge on the opposition.
Dhata continued to be a threat, attempting a bicycle kick that was saved. The match concluded with Dhata’s powerful shot securing a 1-0 victory and propelling the us to the quarterfinals of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
Tactical changes:
With the absence of Kimwero Shamir, and Mubutu not in the starting XI, Mbalangu opted to start with four men at the back. Atendele occupied the right, while Odongo played on the left as full-backs. Kiyemba and Kelvin combined as center-backs, with the former inclined on the left and the latter supporting the right.
Ssesaazi was named as the single holding midfielder, playing a crucial role as the primary defensive anchor in the team. Positioned just in front of the defense, he acted as a shield to protect the backline. In Kakindu, Ssesaazi executed his new role by intercepting opposition attacks, breaking up plays, winning back possession for the team, and initiating attacks.
The midfield saw old friends unite in the middle of the pack, with Wahab and Mugalu combining for the first time in starting positions. They operated interchangeably in the left and right channels, moving across the entire midfield, linking defense and attack. Mugalu showcased his ball retention skills and demonstrated great passing ability.
The typical wing-backs, Okocha on the left and Dhata on the right, operated more like wingers. However, they both contributed to defensive work, as the system allowed for easy transitions between defense and attack.
Cromwel was named as a lone striker to keep the Busoga defense busy, and he executed his task well. He missed a chance to score in the first half when he couldn’t meet Dhata’s cross.
For the first time, we lined up on the field in a 4-1-4-1 formation, and despite the poor playing surface, Mbalangu changed dynamics to a new formation and got the job done.
What next:
After confirming our presence in the Stanbic Uganda Cup Quarterfinals, we await the draw to determine our next opponent. For now, the focus shifts to our upcoming league game against Gaddafi this Saturday at the Gaddafi Arena in Jinja.
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