NEC head coach Hussein Mbalangu has reaffirmed his team’s intent to remain unbeaten at Lugogo, following a crucial 1-0 victory over KCCA in the Uganda Premier League on Thursday.
In previous remarks, Mbalangu had declared the team’s ambition to turn the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, into a stronghold, and Thursday’s win provided evidence of that vision.
Despite playing as the away team, NEC’s triumph highlighted their growing dominance at the venue they also call home.
“Today, we played away from home, but this is where we also host our games, so in a way, it’s still home,” Mbalangu explained post-match.
“We don’t want to lose a game here, and this victory is an example of what we are building towards.”
Tactical Discipline Key to Victory
Mbalangu praised his players’ discipline, emphasizing their ability to contain a formidable KCCA side.
“We have beaten a strong team that has been in great form this season,” he said.
“The difference was our defending. Coming into the game, both teams had scored nearly the same number of goals, but they had conceded less. Today, we scored and didn’t concede, and that’s progress.”
The decisive goal came in the 20th minute, courtesy of Muzamiru Mutyaba, a former KCCA midfielder, who was assisted by another ex-KCCA player, Paul Mucureezi.
NEC Top the Table
With the win, NEC climbed to the top of the UPL standings with 19 points, leapfrogging KCCA, who remained on 18 points after nine games.
“We are at the top of the table because we deserve it,” Mbalangu asserted.
“We’ve fought hard from the start of the season. Although we’ve dropped some points, our goal is to maintain momentum and build on this position.”
Home Fortress in the Making
NEC boasts the best home record in the league, having won four of their five home games and drawn one.
Thursday’s victory further underlines their dominance at Lugogo, whether playing as hosts or visitors.
As the season progresses, NEC’s resilience and tactical discipline will be key to sustaining their title ambitions.
