Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 16 action delivered drama and decisive moments as NEC Football Club comfortably dispatched Lugazi FC, while minnows Happy Boyz Kagaba pulled off a memorable upset to reach the quarterfinals.
At the MTN Omondi Stadium, NEC FC asserted early dominance to secure a commanding 2-0 victory over Lugazi FC on Tuesday afternoon.
The hosts wasted no time stamping authority on the tie. Gideon Odongo rose highest in the sixth minute to power home a header from a well-delivered corner by Hakim Wandera, handing NEC a dream start.
Barely two minutes later, January recruit Samuel Ssekamatte Kayongo doubled the advantage, calmly finishing off a precise delivery from Emmanuel Kulanga to leave Lugazi reeling.
Despite a more balanced second half, neither side found the net again as NEC comfortably saw out the contest to advance. The result marks a significant step for the side coached by Badru Kaddu Mukasa, who continue their push for silverware after falling short in the 2023 final.
For Lugazi, under Simon Peter Mugerwa, the defeat compounds an already difficult campaign, with inconsistent league form now followed by an early cup exit.
Elsewhere, third division outfit Happy Boyz Kagaba FC produced a giant-killing performance, edging Six O’Clock FC 5-4 on penalties after a goalless stalemate in Kassanda. The victory sends Kagaba into the last eight, underlining the magic of the competition.
Attention now shifts to another Round of 16 clash where KCCA FC are set to battle Onduparaka FC later on Tuesday, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake.
The remaining winners will complete the last eight lineup ahead of the official draw to be conducted by FUFA. Ultimately, the tournament champion will secure Uganda’s slot in the prestigious CAF Confederation Cup.
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