KAMPALA, NEC FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UPDF FC, courtesy of a clinical second-half strike by star forward Fahad Bayo in an intensely demanding Uganda Premier League clash.
The match was characterised by high tactical discipline, physical battles and a flurry of yellow cards. NEC showed their ability to grind out results against a resilient military side.
UPDF fc players on attack. Photo: Bemustar Omunet / ChampionSport
The match kicked off under intense pressure, with both teams displaying immense defensive organisation. In the 24th minute, UPDF FC's Jersey 42, Kigenyi Joel, received the match's first yellow card following a robust challenge.
As the half progressed, the game proved exceptionally demanding for both sides. Following two minutes of added time, the referee blew the whistle to send the teams into the break deadlocked at 0-0.
Jersey 42 of UPDF fc takes on jersey 5 of NEC fc. Photo: Bemustar Omunet / ChampionSport
NEC broke the deadlock shortly after the restart when Jersey 9 Fahad Bayo found the back of the net in the 56th minute (17:06 match time), putting the hosts ahead 1-0. Following the goal, NEC asserted territorial dominance, controlling 60% of ball possession against UPDF's 40% by the 72nd minute.
As UPDF pushed for an equaliser, the physical nature of the game brought a wave of cautions. UPDF's Jersey 13 Derick Taremwa was cautioned in the 75th minute, followed by teammate Abbas Kiberu (Jersey 6) in the 84th minute. NEC's Jersey 4 also entered the referee's notebook in the 89th minute.
UPDF fc players on the attack. Photo: Bemustar Omunet / ChampionSport
Four minutes of stoppage time elapsed without further incident, confirming a narrow and vital 1-0 full-time victory for NEC FC.
Video from the match
Source: ChampionSport Reporter
