We kicked off the second round with a great win, completing a double against the famous KCCA after Ssebaggala Enock headed home a wonderful cross from Geriga Atendele.
This win has ensured that our tally has rose to 36 points just one point against table leaders, Vipers SC who have 37 points.
From the outset, we took command of the game, with our players weaving through the pitch with a clear intent to dominate. The match’s defining moment came early, in the 9th minute, when Ssebagala Enock, with a leap of faith and precision, headed the ball into the net, assisted by the sharp cross from Atendele Geriga.
This goal not only put us in the lead but also set the tone for the rest of the match. Ssebagala’s performance was so outstanding that he was rightfully named Man of the Match.
The game wasn’t without its trials, however. The intensity was palpable, leading to a flurry of yellow cards. Atendele Geriga, before his assist, found himself cautioned early in the 7th minute, a sign of the fierce competition in this Lugogo derby.
The midfield was a battleground, with Shamir Kimwero, Jacob Okao, and Ibrahim Musa all receiving yellow cards, showcasing the physical nature of the contest, with our goalkeeper Ssebwalunnyo Hannington also being booked.
Our strategy was clear: maintain possession and keep the pressure on. We managed an 84% passing success rate, slightly lower than KCCA’s 89%, but what we lacked in precision, we made up for in aggression, evidenced by 27 fouls compared to KCCA’s 12. Despite this, we controlled the game’s tempo, with 48% possession, ensuring KCCA had fewer opportunities to counter-attack.
KCCA FC, though was out performed final score in they showed flashes of brilliance. Their 52% possession was a testament to their attempt to regain control, and their 4 shots on target showed they were not out of the fight. However, our defensive solidity, particularly from Bayiga Patric and Gideon Odongo, thwarted any significant threat.Substitutions played a pivotal role in NEC’s strategy to maintain our lead.
The introduction of players like Mugalu Allan, Kasinde Ibrahim, and Ajo Emmanuel brought fresh legs and tactical shifts that helped in sealing the victory. Each substitution was like a chess move, enhancing our grip on the game.
The match ended with NEC FC securing a 1-0 victory, a result that spoke volumes about our resilience and tactical acumen. The team’s dominance was further highlighted by our 7 shots on target and 7 corners, contrasting with KCCA’s struggle to find the back of the net despite having an equal number of shots off target.
This game was not just about the scoreline but about the story of determination, collective effort, and individual brilliance. Ssebagala Enock’s header will be remembered as the moment that defined the night at Lugogo, a night where NEC FC proved their mettle against one of the league’s formidable teams, KCCA FC.
Our next encounter is an away game against Police FC in Kavumba on Sunday, February 16, 2025 with kick off set for 1600 hours.