Express Hands NEC First Defeat of the Season

Thursday, October 3
*Kitara 0-1 Police
*Express 2-1 NEC

Express FC handed NEC their first defeat of the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League season with a thrilling 2-1 win at Nakivubo Stadium.

Early goals from Geoffrey Gagganga and Ronald Andabati gave the Red Eagles a deserved victory, while Cromwell Rwothomio’s second-half strike was not enough for the visitors.

The game started at a fast pace, with Express taking the lead after just five minutes. Gagganga capitalized on a defensive error from NEC’s Kelvin Tah Barni, who lost possession just outside the box. Gagganga seized the opportunity, unleashing a powerful shot that left NEC goalkeeper Hannington Ssebwalunyo helpless.

Four minutes later, Express doubled their advantage through Ronald Andabati. Debutant Richard Basangwa made a surging run to the byline before delivering a perfect cross, which Andabati poked home to give the Red Eagles a commanding 2-0 lead.

NEC, who had won their first three matches of the season, including victories over Vipers, Kitara, and UPDF, struggled to break down the resolute Express defense in the first half.

However, they found a lifeline in the 62nd minute when Cromwell Rwothomio slotted home from inside the box after a pass from Enock Ssebagala.

The goal stood, despite a foul in the build-up just outside the box.

Despite NEC’s late pressure, Express held firm to secure all three points.

The win takes Express to seven points from four games, with their only defeat coming against Vipers. It’s their second win since beating Mbale Heroes in their opener. They drew goalless with Maroons previously.

NEC, who had hoped to return to the top of the table, will now look to bounce back from this setback after the International break.

Players Used

Express – Micheal Kagiri, Emmanuel Alex Wasswa, Joseph Zziwa, Derrick Ngoobi, Richard Basangwa, Geofrey Gagganga, Abdulahi Rashid, Mustafa Kizza, Saidi Kyeyune,
Ronald Mawa Andabati, Isa Muzeeyi Lumu

NEC – Hannington Sebwalunyo, Ibrahim Kiyemba, Tah Barni Kelvin, Geriga Atendele, Cromwel Rwothomio, Dickson Niwamanya, Amir Kakomo, Gideon Odongo, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Rashid Okocha, Enock Ssebaggala