NEC FC: New beginnings and high hopes ahead of debut Premier League season

The NEC FC squad in a photo moment before a friendly game. (NEC Twitter).

FOOTBALL NEC FC: New beginnings and high hopes ahead of debut Premier League season

Peter Tabu • 12:21 - 08.09.2023

With the StarTimes Uganda Premier League just around the corner, let's delve into the comings and goings at NEC FC in anticipation of the league kickoff.

With the StarTimes Uganda Premier League just around the corner, let's delve into the comings and goings at NEC FC in anticipation of the league kickoff.

Who is NEC FC?

NEC FC, short for National Enterprise Cooperation F.C., operates under the umbrella of the National Enterprise Cooperation, a government entity established by an act of Parliament. It serves as the commercial arm of the Ministry of Defence Forces, responsible for producing goods and services.

The team earned promotion in its debut season, finishing third in the FUFA Big League last year. Under the guidance of head coach Hussein Mbalangu and assistant coach Dudu Bosco, NEC FC has been busy in the transfer market, making 17 signings and releasing 11 players in preparation for their maiden campaign in the top flight.

Players In

Among the 17 new acquisitions, head coach Hussein Mbalangu will be relying on key signings such as Dharta Joseph, Rashid Okocha, Samson Kirya, Ssebagala Enock, and Brian Kayanja.

Joseph Dharta brings blistering pace to the right wing, while Rashid Okocha's goal-scoring prowess is undeniable and should share the scoring burden with Brian Kayanja.

Goalkeeper Samson Kirya adds a wealth of experience between the posts, having previously featured for Wakiso Giants last season and S.C. Villa in prior seasons.

Former Express FC creative midfielder Enock Ssebagala is expected to inject creativity into the side's attack, with his ability to beat defenders a valuable asset.

NEC FC kicks off their league campaign with an away match against fellow newly promoted side Mbarara City F.C. on Friday, September 15th. Keep an eye out for this exciting team in the upcoming season.

List of Players In

Samson Kirya (Wakiso Giants), Maganda Ismail (Proline FC), Achire John Paul (Blackspower FC), Kasirye Wasswa Bunyaruguru, (Tigers FC), Sharif Lubega (Catida FC), Owinyi Ronald - (Calvary FC), Kelvin Tar ban (Kyetume FC), Rashid Okocha (Onduparaka FC), Nkonge Saziri Kira (Kiira FC), Joseph Dharta (Express FC), Ibrahim Tembo (Mbarara City FC), Allan Mugalu - (Arua Hill FC), Ssebagala Enock - (Express FC)

Isaac Balyejusa - (Luwero United), Brian Kayanja (KCCA FC), Kaye Ronald Ntungasazi (Unattached), Kulanga Emmanuel (URA FC youth team).

Players Out (Released)

Wokorach Braddy Jeans (GK), Okuwa Eric (GK), Richard Ajuna Boma, Maurice Makanga, Okoya Bonny, Kazibwe Magu, Julius Walugembe, Lubobi Duff, Jonathan Sewankambo, Kolongo Mansoor, Bayo Ali

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