By 
UPL Fixtures 29th December 2023.
- URA FC Vs Mbarara City FC (Metha Stadium Lugazi) 4pm
- NEC FC Vs Soltiro Bright Stars (MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo) 7pm
NEC Football Club is eager to bounce back and claim victory as they host Solitilo Bright Stars at the MTN Omondi Stadium – Lugogo in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
In their recent home fixture, NEC secured an early lead through Cromwell Rwothomio in the third minute but flatered in maintaining their advantage, succumbing to Express, who ultimately dominated the match, sealing a 5-2 victory.
Despite this setback, NEC has displayed resilience since their promotion, encountering only four losses: two away against Kitara FC (1-0 in Masindi) and SC Villa (3-0 at Wankulukuku ), and two at home against Gaddafi FC (3-0) and the recent one to Express FC .
Following their promotion, many Football enthusiasts anticipated NEC FC’s struggle in the league due to their status as newcomers, and labeled it as a relegation candidate.
However under Coach Hussein Mbalangu’s guidance, the team added new talents like former Joseph Dhata, Cromwell Rwothomio, Rashid Okocha, Balyejusa Isaac, Allan Mugalu, Kirya Samson among others to propel the side to comfortably sitting in fifth position with 20 points from twelve games.
In contrast, Bright Stars enters the game positioned tenth, with 14 points from twelve games (3 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses).
Notably, they secured a recent victory against UPDF FC (2-1) at Kavumba Recreational Grounds and have a commendable record against newly promoted teams, including a draw against Mbarara City.
What is of particular concern for NEC and strength to the visitors is November’s Player of the Month and current UPL top scorer, Nelson Senkatuka.
Nelson Ssenkatuka.
The forward poses a significant threat with nine goals this season, including the winning goal in Bright Stars’ last game against UPDF.
Bright Stars’ Assistant Coach, Tom Ssali, via thé club media expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete and secure a favorable result in the upcoming fixture.
The stage is set for an exciting clash between NEC Football Club and Bright Stars, with both teams striving for success in today’s encounter.
