By 
Results for 9th February 2024
- Kitara FC 1-1 SC Villa
- NEC FC 2-0 Mbarara City FCÂ
The stage was set at Philip Omondi Stadium, illuminated by floodlights on a serene evening, as NEC Football Club clashed with Mbarara City Football. Excitement rippled through the air as fans eagerly awaited the showdown.
In the 9th minute, Gadafi Wahab, making his full debut, unleashed a fiery shot, only to see it deflected for a corner.
Moments later, Wafula Innocent delivered a slick cross to Akandwanaho, who narrowly missed from close range, with Sadat’s follow-up denied by the woodwork in the 13th minute.
Debutant Gadafi Wahab’s second attempt in the 25th minute was heroically cleared off the line, keeping the scoreline level.
The first half unfolded with both teams making relentless attempts at each other’s goal, resulting in a tense deadlock at the half-hour mark.
As the first half drew to a close, NEC intensified their pressure on the visitors, with Rashid Okocha narrowly missing a chance in the 45th minute.
However, Joseph Dhata Lujang broke the deadlock in additional time, propelling the hosts into a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw Mbarara City making tactical substitutions, injecting fresh energy into their lineup.
Despite their attacking efforts, NEC’s defense, led by goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan, stood firm, denying Mbarara’s advances.
Rashid Okocha extended NEC’s lead with a well-controlled finish off a sublime through pass.
Okocha celebrating his goal. | Photo Credit : Sports Lens
Despite a spirited effort from Mbarara City, Ochan’s brilliance thwarted their attempts to claw back into the game.
In the dying moments, Rashid Okocha’s free-kick was expertly saved by the Mbarara City goalkeeper, preserving NEC’s victory.
On his debut for NEC FC, Gadafi Wahab showcased his exceptional talent by providing two crucial assists, solidifying his impact on the field.
His stellar performance rightfully earned him the prestigious Player of the Match award, cementing his place as a standout player for the team.
The result secured NEC FC’s double over Mbarara City FC this season, propelling them to fifth position, while Mbarara City dropped to eleventh.
Looking ahead, NEC FC will face UPDF at Bomba Military Barracks Playground, while Mbarara City will host Busoga United at Kakyeka Stadium, promising more thrilling encounters in the upcoming fixtures.
