Uganda Premier League Today, 8pm At Lugogo
NEC v BUL
A new chapter begins for NEC FC as Kaddu Badru takes charge of his first match at the helm when the Bugolobi-based side welcomes BUL FC to the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo on Saturday.
Kaddu, who swapped the Express FC dugout for NEC midweek following the dismissal of Hussein Mbalangu, steps into the spotlight with minimal preparation time — just two training sessions with his new squad. Yet, optimism remains high after NEC’s morale-boosting 1-0 away victory over Mbarara City last weekend, their first win of the season.
Assistant coach James Odoch, who has overseen NEC’s last two fixtures, believes the transition will be smooth under the new boss.
“Kaddu’s arrival injects experience and calmness. He’s already connected with the players, and everyone knows the expectations,” Odoch told club media. “BUL are a strong side, but we’ll match them blow for blow on the pitch.”
For BUL head coach Abbey Kikomeko, the fixture presents a familiar challenge — and an unwanted record. The Jinja-based side has yet to beat NEC in any competition, drawing four and losing twice. Still, Kikomeko insists his team is focused on rewriting that history.
“They’ve always been a stubborn opponent, but we’re determined to end that streak,” he said. “Kaddu or no Kaddu, I expect the same NEC approach disciplined and aggressive.”
Team news gives both sides reason for caution. NEC will be without Warren Bbule, Jacob Okao, Innocent Media, Cromwell Rwothomio, and Daniel Shabena through injuries. BUL’s only absentee is goalkeeper Emmanuel Musiima.
Despite the contrasting narratives — a coach beginning anew and another chasing consistency — Saturday’s clash promises to test both ambition and resilience.
NEC remain unbeaten against BUL in all competitions (W2, D4), while BUL have yet to lose a Uganda Premier League game in 2025.
