Matchday one of the 2024-25 StarTimes Uganda Premier League rolls on with three exciting fixtures on Sunday, September 15. Headlining the day is a highly anticipated clash between six-time champions Vipers SC and newcomers NEC at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, in a rematch of their Fufa Super 8 quarterfinal battle.
Last season, NEC thwarted Vipers’ title defense hopes with a goalless draw that effectively ended the Venoms’ quest for a third consecutive league title. Now, under the guidance of Serbian coach Nikola Kavazovic, Vipers will look to in-form Allan Okello to lead the charge, alongside attackers Milton Karisa and Kenneth Kimera, as they seek to break down NEC’s well-organized defense, led by former Vipers player Ibrahim Kiyemba.
NEC will depend on star player Allan Mugalu, alongside experienced ex-Vipers midfielder Paul Mucureezi and striker Cromwell Rwothomio. South Sudan internationals Joseph Dhata, Atendele Geriga, and Gaddafi Wahab will also play key roles in their lineup.
In other Sunday fixtures, Wakiso Giants will host Soltilo Bright Stars in a Wakiso derby, with the home side introducing a new-look squad. Key players for Wakiso include Marvin Oshaba, David Bagoole, and Hassan Ssenyonjo, while Bright Stars will look to captain Nelson Ssenkatuka to make an impact under the management of former Uganda Cranes midfielder Joseph Mutyaba.
Meanwhile, UPDF FC will visit Maroons FC as they aim for a strong start to the season, hoping to avoid the relegation troubles that plagued them last year. Maroons, playing on home turf, are tipped to take all three points against a determined UPDF side.
The action continues on Monday, September 16, with fixtures including Police FC vs BUL, SC Villa vs Mbarara City, and Express vs Mbale Heroes.
Sunday, September 15, 2024
Wakiso Giants vs Soltilo Bright Stars – 3:00 PM
Maroons vs UPDF – 3:00 PM
NEC vs Vipers SC – 6:00 PM
Monday, September 16, 2024
Police vs BUL – 4:00 PM
SC Villa vs Mbarara City – 4:00 PM
Express vs Mbale Heroes – 7:00 PM
