KCCA FC battled to a dramatic 2–1 victory over NEC under the Lugogo floodlights, a result that sent the 13-time champions three points clear at the summit of the Uganda Premier League with 23 points. NEC, spirited but undone by late mistakes, remained ninth on 11 points.
KCCA made an electric start, taking the lead in the 4th minute when Saidi Mayanja slotted home after a flowing attack. KCCA goalkeeper Anthony Emojong required early medical attention, but the visitors soon grew into the contest, forcing KCCA to defend in numbers as the first half wore on.
The game was repeatedly interrupted by injuries on both sides, and NEC made changes to sharpen their attack. NEC had Samson Kirya to thank for keeping them ahead at halftime, the NEC goalkeeper producing a superb stop to deny what looked like a certain second goal.
After the break, the visitors struck back. Substitute Titus Ssematimba levelled matters in the 51st minute with a composed finish, boosting NEC’s momentum. However, his night quickly turned sour. After picking up a yellow card for pulling Anyama’s jersey, he was sent off moments later for a reckless challenge on Lazaro Bwambale, leaving NEC to finish with ten men.
KCCA soon found themselves shorthanded as well Emmanuel Anyama was shown a straight red in the 73rd minute after a late tackle on Ibrahim Musa, setting up a tense final stretch with both teams playing with ten men.
NEC made further substitutions to stabilise the midfield, while KCCA threw on Umaru Lutalo and Alex Yiga to chase the winner. The breakthrough arrived in the 87th minute. Yiga drove down the flank and delivered a sharp pass that Mayanja buried, completing his brace and sending the home crowd into celebration. NEC’s Musa had gifted the ball away in the buildup, and KCCA punished the mistake ruthlessly.
What a fantastic finish! That Mayanja really knows how to seal a win for KCCA – fantastic stuff, team!