UPDF FC capitalised on a blistering start to overcome Express FC 2-1 at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on Thursday, October 15, and claim their second victory of the 2026/27 Uganda Premier League season.
Derrick Taremwa struck twice inside the opening four minutes to hand Hussein Mbalangu’s army side a decisive advantage, leaving Express with too much to do despite a late second-half response.
The visitors needed just two minutes to break the deadlock, with Taremwa finding the net in the second minute before doubling the lead in the fourth to complete a remarkable brace and stun the home supporters.
Express struggled to recover from the early setback but gradually grew into the contest as they searched for a route back into the game.
Duncan Sseninde, who had impressed in the Red Eagles’ goalless draw against NEC the previous week, came close to reducing the deficit in the 35th minute, only to send his effort over the crossbar.
Steven Yiga also threatened just before the interval, forcing UPDF goalkeeper Shamlan Kamya into an excellent save at the stroke of half-time to preserve the visitors’ two-goal cushion.
Express head coach Morley Byekwaso introduced Henry Wamala for Alpha Ssali in the second half, and the substitution paid dividends when Wamala pulled one back in the 74th minute after being set up by Sseninde.
The goal injected fresh urgency into Express’ play, but UPDF remained resolute under late pressure to protect their slender advantage and take all three points.
The victory lifts UPDF to ninth place on the 18-team standings with eight points, marking their second win of the campaign.
Express, meanwhile, remain 14th with five points after suffering their third defeat of the season, leaving Byekwaso’s men with work to do as they seek greater consistency.
