As the Uganda Premier League returns this Friday, second-placed NEC FC will be aiming to keep the pressure on table-toppers Vipers SC by collecting maximum points against UPDF FC in Bombo.
Currently trailing the Venoms by five points, NEC knows that any slip-up could prove costly, especially after Vipers’ resilient performance against Lugazi that saw them tighten their grip at the summit.
History slightly favors NEC in recent meetings with UPDF, having registered two wins and a draw in their last three encounters.
However, all those victories came on home turf, and the Bugolobi-based club will be venturing into tricky territory at Bombo Military Grounds.
Visitors will rely heavily on the creative spark of Paul Mucureezi, the pace of Allan Mugalu, and the midfield control of Enock Ssebagala.
Yet, they’ll need to be vigilant against the threat posed by Samson Kigozi and his teammates, who are buoyed by a recent 1-0 triumph over Wakiso Giants.
The army side, under the guidance of Paul Kiwanuka, currently occupy 10th position with 27 points.
In Njeru, defending champions SC Villa will be out to halt BUL FC’s impressive form when the two lock horns in a much-anticipated encounter. BUL, sitting third on 36 points, remain unbeaten in the second round and look determined to maintain their surge.
Villa, on the other hand, are in 8th with 30 points and will need a spirited performance to bridge the six-point gap.
Meanwhile, at Kakyeka Stadium, Mbarara City hosts URA FC in a fixture that holds special meaning for coach Livingston Mbabazi, who faces his former employers.
The Ankole Lions are hovering just above the relegation zone with 23 points, and a positive result could be vital in their survival quest. URA, placed 5th with 33 points, will aim to capitalize on Mbarara’s inconsistency to boost their top-four ambitions.
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