KCCA fall flat as NEC claim Lugogo derby bragging rights
David GOMBE
KCCA FC began their 2026/27 StarTimes Uganda Premier League campaign with a frustrating 2-0 defeat against NEC FC in the Lugogo derby on Saturday.
Richard Basangwa and Pius Obuya scored the two goals for Badru Kaddu’s Diehards, who continued their impressive record against the Kasasiro Boys.
Basangwa gave NEC an early lead in the 5th minute, capitalising on a slow start from the hosts to fire past Mutwalibi Mugolofa and silence the Lugogo faithful.
KCCA responded well, with Charles Lwanga coming close to levelling matters in the 25th minute, but his low drive was brilliantly denied by NEC goalkeeper Hannington Ssebwalunyo.
Head coach Brian Ssenyondo tried to change the complexion of the game in the 72nd minute, introducing Elvis Ngonde and Ibrahim Kasule for Yunus Sibira and Lazaro Muhindo.
The substitution almost paid off instantly. Moments after coming on, Kasule set up Lwanga with a clever through ball, but again Ssebwalunyo stood tall to preserve NEC’s lead.
NEC put the result beyond doubt in the final minutes. Pius Obuya doubled the visitors’ advantage on the counter, sealing a statement win for Kaddu’s men.
The defeat leaves KCCA searching for answers after a poor start, while NEC will feel their top-four ambitions are right on track.
KCCA FC will look to bounce back when they visit rivals Express FC on Thursday, September 3rd at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo at 7PM while NEC FC will host new boys Lugazi FC in their next outing.