NEC FC boosted Vipers SC’s Uganda Premier League title charge after edging Kitara FC 1-0 in a tense Matchday 27 encounter at Royal Park Butema in Hoima on Saturday evening.
In a contest loaded with title-race significance, NEC produced a disciplined display and capitalised on a decisive second-half moment to frustrate a Kitara side desperate to keep pressure on league leaders Vipers.
The breakthrough arrived five minutes after the restart when Richard Basangwa rose highest inside the penalty area to power home a commanding header for the visitors.
The former Vipers forward timed his run perfectly and directed his effort beyond the goalkeeper to silence the home crowd.
Basangwa’s return proved timely after recently recovering from a worrying concussion suffered against Express FC at Hamz Stadium. His goal ultimately separated two sides battling for strong finishes in the league standings.
Kitara entered the match knowing victory would significantly tighten the title race following Vipers’ 1-1 draw against URA FC a day earlier at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. Instead, the defeat dealt a major blow to their fading championship ambitions.
Mission Accomplished.3️⃣ points are ours 💪🏾#KITNEC || #StarTimesUPL || #Diehards pic.twitter.com/gImXyvyKHU
— NEC FC (@Nec_Fc) May 9, 2026
The result leaves Kitara stuck on 54 points in third place with only three matches remaining, while Vipers maintain a healthy six-point lead at the summit. KCCA FC remain second, five points behind the Venoms.
NEC, meanwhile, continued their impressive campaign with a 13th victory of the season. The win lifted them to 50 points and strengthened their hold on fifth place as they continue pushing for a strong finish to the campaign.
While Basangwa’s decisive contribution carried extra narrative given his ties to Vipers and St Mary’s School, Kitende, the bigger story was NEC’s ability to execute a disciplined game plan in a high-pressure atmosphere and alter the complexion of the title race in the process.
With time running out in the season, NEC’s victory may prove one of the defining results in Vipers’ pursuit of a successive Uganda Premier League crown.
