NEC coach Mbalangu laments injuries and travel woes ahead of URA clash

Thursday October 2, 2025

• Police vs Express FC – Kiira Road Police Arena 4pm
• URA vs NEC – Hamz stadium, Nakivubo 8pm

Following their elimination from the Caf Confederation Cup, NEC have shifted their focus to the premier league.

The Bugolobi based side make a short trip to Nakivubo to face URA seeking to begin the season on a winning note.

Hussein Mbalangu couldn’t hide his disappointment at the league organisers about refusal to reschedule their match on their request.  

“We have lots of injuries in the camp and after travelling on road to Nairobi, we had asked Fufa to reschedule the game but they refused so we shall use the available players,” Mbalangu told club media revealing over eight players out.

Allan Mugalu, Titus Ssematimba, James Jarieko, Emmanuel Kulanga, Timothy Muwanguzi, Siraje Sentamu and Daniel Shabena could all be out with injuries.

Asked whether playing in the new format would affect his side especially in the first round where points only help to fight for a top eighth finish, Mbalangu said the target is to win all matches regardless.

“The target is to try to win every game and we shall focus on that for now. We know the strengths and weaknesses of our opponents and we look to utilize our opportunities.”

URA, who drew goalless with BUL in their opening match will be seeking to pick their first win of the season.

Alex Isabirye will hope forwards Moses Aliro and Nelson Ssenkatuka get the desired goals for his tax men as they focus on winning the fifth title.

Elsewhere on the day, 2005 league champions will host seven-time league winners Express at Kiira Road Police ground.

Other Match Day TWO fixtures

Friday October 3, 2025

• Buhimba Saints vs Calvary – The Royals Park, Butema 4pm
• Mbarara City vs UPDF – Rwamanja stadium, Kamwenge 4pm

Saturday October 4, 2025

• Kitara vs Vipers SC – Mandela National stadium, Namboole 5pm
• KCCA vs SC Villa – Mandela National stadium, Namboole 8pm