The Uganda Premier League title race took a dramatic twist on Friday night as Express FC held Vipers SC to a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
With NEC FC edging Kitara FC 1-0 on Thursday, they closed the gap to just one point behind the table-topping Vipers. The Venoms needed a win to restore their four-point cushion but were stunned by a spirited Express side who led 2-0 at halftime, only for the visitors to fight back and salvage a draw.
Crisis Fuels Resilience
Despite being plagued by financial and leadership woes, including reports of unpaid salaries for up to six months, Express produced one of their most resilient performances of the season. Players recently staged a strike ahead of their loss to Maroons, but a fan-led intervention including a promise of UGX 10 million for a win against Vipers, seemed to reignite belief.
Wasswa’s Brace Lights Up Nakivubo
Express captain Emmanuel Wasswa was the star of the show, netting a first-half brace. His opener came in the 15th minute after Muhammad Senoga Kagawa’s effort crashed off the crossbar, leaving Wasswa to nod home the rebound. The second goal, a curling beauty into the top corner in the 27th minute, left Vipers goalkeeper Alfred Mudekereza rooted.
Vipers Fight Back
The Venoms, shaken but not broken, emerged stronger after the break. Allan Okello halved the deficit in the 52nd minute, rifling Pedro Sukuya’s cross into the roof of the net with his weaker foot.
Express nearly restored their two-goal advantage in the 70th minute, but Mudekereza produced a double save to deny Rashid Kawawa.
With five minutes of added time, Vipers finally drew level. Substitute Milton Karisa, returning from injury, latched onto a long ball from Karim Watambala and squared it for Gusto Mulongo to tap in at the far post, ensuring a share of the spoils.
Standings and What’s Next
The result sees Vipers remain top with 53 points, two ahead of NEC FC, setting up a mouthwatering top-of-the-table clash when the two sides meet next Thursday in Kitende. With seven matches left, the title race is poised for a nail-biting finish.
