NEC have once again underlined their resolve in the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League title race, edging Mbarara City 2-1 in a dramatic late show at Kakyeka Stadium on Wednesday evening.
With Vipers SC having opened up an eight-point lead at the summit on Tuesday thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory over UPDF, the pressure was squarely on NEC to respond and avoid a costly stumble against relegation-threatened Mbarara City.
And respond they did, in the most Diehard fashion.
Tension at Kakyeka
The match started in tense fashion, with both teams knowing the stakes.
NEC needed a win to keep Vipers within sight, while Mbarara were desperate for points to climb out of the relegation mire.
Despite several half-chances, the first half ended goalless, leaving both camps nervy and the atmosphere increasingly charged inside the Kakyeka cauldron.
Second-Half Drama
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 53rd minute when Allan Mugalu fired NEC into the lead, his contribution breathing life into their title push.
But Mbarara City refused to go quietly. In the 84th minute, Seiri Arigumaho, their top scorer this season, found the equalizer, netting his eighth goal of the campaign.
The goal sent the home fans into delirium and gave Vipers supporters reason to celebrate early, sensing NEC might finally drop points.
However, Jacob Okao had other plans. Deep into stoppage time, the defender popped up with a crucial 91st-minute winner, reigniting NEC’s chase and sparking wild celebrations on the visitors’ bench.
Where the Table Stands
The victory moves NEC to 57 points, just five behind leaders Vipers (62 points), with four games left in the season.
The title race remains alive, and NEC’s character continues to shine through when it matters most.
Meanwhile, Mbarara City stay just above the relegation zone on 23 points, and their fate could still go down to the wire.
What’s Next
NEC return to action on May 7 with a high-stakes clash against BUL FC at home, a venue where they are still unbeaten in the league this season.
Mbarara City will face Wakiso Giants on May 6 in a relegation six-pointer.
Vipers SC, with a firm grip on the top spot, will host already-relegated Mbale Heroes after their Uganda Cup semifinal first leg against Kitara.
The fight for the Uganda Premier League crown is far from over, and NEC are proving they’ll die hard before giving up.
