NEC made a statement on the opening day of the 2026/27 Uganda Premier League season, defeating hosts KCCA 2-0 to claim maximum points at the MTN Omondi Stadium on Saturday.
The result was among the day’s major talking points, alongside Kitara’s dramatic late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with SC Villa at Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku.
Crispus Asiki came off the bench to rescue a point for Kitara with virtually the last kick of the match, heading home from Kabon Living’s free-kick delivery.
Villa had looked on course for victory after taking an eighth-minute lead through Andrew Okumu, who opened his Jogoos account with a well-directed header from Arnold Odong’s lay-off following a cleverly worked free-kick.
Starting life at their new Wankulukuku home, Villa controlled much of the first half and created opportunities to extend their advantage, but failed to capitalise.
Reagan Mpande squandered a good chance after being released by Patrick Kakande, while substitute Andrew Otim fired over from another inviting Kakande delivery.
Kitara had their own opportunities before finally finding the breakthrough. George Senkaaba was denied by a goal-line clearance, while Jimmy Kalema struck the post.
The visitors intensified their search for an equaliser, with coach deploying Edson Agondeze, Isaac Amutuhaire, Asiki and Living in attack.
Their persistence eventually paid off as Asiki converted Living’s late free-kick to deny Villa victory.
Elsewhere, Police edged Mbarara City 1-0 courtesy of Ivan Mayanja’s long-range strike, while Lugazi overcame Kigezi Home Boyz 2-1.
Blacks Power marked their return to top-flight football with a 1-0 victory over fellow newcomers Ntugasaze at Hoima City Stadium.
Villa will next face URA at Nakivubo on September 3, while Kitara’s attention now turns to the CAF Confederation Cup, where they meet Mogadishu City on September 6.
