Latest sports updates: NEC FC and coach Hussein Mbarangu remain unbeaten at home this season following a crucial win against Soltilo Bright Stars at the MTN Omondi Stadium.

The victory was sealed by a penalty from Mucurezi, taking NEC to the summit of the league table.

Previous Encounters Between NEC and Bright Stars

The two teams last faced off in the Uganda Premier League last season, with both matches ending in draws.

A goalless stalemate at Kavumba and a 1-1 draw on December 29, 2023, at MTN Omondi Stadium highlighted the closely contested nature of their rivalry.

NEC’s Midfield Challenges and Bright Stars’ Missed Opportunity

NEC entered the match without two key players, James Jarieco and Enock Ssebaggala, which posed a challenge to their midfield.

However, Gaddafi Wahab, Muzamir Mutyaba, and Thembo stepped in to fill the void.

Bright Stars had a golden opportunity to take the lead before halftime.

A handball by NEC defender Patrick Bayiga resulted in a penalty for Bright Stars.

Unfortunately for the visitors, their captain Nelson Ssenkatuuka missed the chance as NEC goalkeeper Hannington Ssebwalunyo made a spectacular save.

The first half ended in a goalless draw.

Second Half Drama: NEC’s Persistent Attack

The second half saw NEC intensify their attack, with Bright Stars’ defenders Kato Muneyimana and Waren Buule working hard to keep them at bay.

The introduction of substitute Alan Mugalu and captain Marvin Kavuma added more energy to NEC’s offense.

Bright Stars adopted time-wasting tactics, which led to their goalkeeper Shamuran Kamya receiving a yellow card.

Despite their efforts, Bright Stars’ defense faltered when Waren Buule pulled Mucurezi inside the box, earning NEC a penalty in the 74th minute.

NEC goalkeeper Hannington Ssebyalunnyo takes home the #LinqsoftAlluminium Man of the Match award after saving the penalty and keeping the cleen sheet.

Nevertheless Mucurezi converted the penalty with composure, scoring his sixth goal of the season and putting NEC in the driving seat.

Bright Stars’ Struggles Continue

Bright Stars’ away record remains dismal. They have now gone 23 consecutive away games without a win, drawing 13 and losing 10.

Additionally, the team has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven matches.

NEC Tops the League Table

With this victory, NEC moves to the top of the league standings.

However, their position remains provisional as they await the result of Vipers’ game against BUL.

This triumph highlights NEC’s strong form at home and sets the stage for an exciting title race as the season progresses.

The early kickoff, UPDF drew 1-1 with Mbale Heroes.