Clash of Titans at Kitende: Vipers SC Host NEC FC in Pivotal Title Showdown
Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
Kick-off: 7:00 PM EAT
Match Day: 24 – StarTimes Uganda Premier League
20,000 shs
The 2024/25 StarTimes Uganda Premier League enters a decisive phase on Thursday night as title contenders Vipers SC and NEC FC face off in a much-anticipated match day 24 fixture at the formidable St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende. With just two points separating the top two sides, this encounter could prove pivotal in the race for the crown.
Title Race in the Balance
Vipers SC, six-time champions, currently sit atop the table with 53 points from 23 games. NEC FC, enjoying an incredible debut top-flight season, are breathing down their necks with 51 points. A win for Vipers would stretch their lead to five points, while a victory for the visitors could see them leapfrog the champions and intensify the title fight.
For NEC, this is more than just a match—it’s a statement opportunity. However, defeat would severely dent their title hopes, as it would push them five points adrift with only a handful of fixtures remaining.
Form Guide and Previous Encounters
Vipers come into this fixture on the back of a dramatic 2-2 draw against Express FC, having come from two goals down to salvage a vital point. That result displayed their champion mentality and resilience—traits they will look to showcase once again under the Kitende floodlights.
NEC FC, on the other hand, were forced to dig deep in their previous fixture against Kitara. After conceding early to Kabon Living, they responded quickly with an equalizer but were hampered by a second yellow card to star midfielder Enock Ssebagala, who is now suspended for the Kitende clash.
Historically, NEC have shown they can trouble the Vipers. They won the reverse fixture 3-1 at Lugogo on match day one. However, their last visit to Kitende ended in a 4-1 loss, underlining the formidable nature of the venue.
Team News
Vipers SC are buoyed by the return of several key players. Captain Milton Karisa is expected to start after making a substitute appearance in the last game. Midfielder Marvin Youngman is also back from suspension, adding depth to the engine room. However, left-back Derrick Ndahiro and forward Arnest Ankunda remain sidelined, the latter ruled out for the rest of the season.
NEC FC will have to cope without suspended midfield dynamo Enock Ssebagala and the injured Shamir Kimwero, both key absentees in such a crucial fixture. Their replacements will have to step up on the big stage if NEC are to get a result at Kitende.
Key Players to Watch
For Vipers: Allan Okello – The midfield maestro will be crucial in unlocking NEC’s defense.
Milton Karisa – The returning captain’s pace and leadership are a major boost.
Karim Watambala – Expected to dictate the tempo and control the midfield battles.
For NEC:
Paul Mucureezi – Brings experience and creativity in the absence of Ssebagala.
Marvin Kavuma – A dynamic presence in defense.
Muzamir Mutyaba – Will be vital in linking midfield to attack and keeping possession.
Vipers boast an unbeaten record at St. Mary’s Stadium this season, winning the majority of their home fixtures and drawing just three. They’ve made their fortress a daunting place for visitors and will rely on that stronghold to keep NEC at bay.
NEC’s away record, though respectable, has been inconsistent. They have secured four wins on the road, lost only twice, and picked up multiple draws. However, none of their away wins have come against top-six opposition.
Vipers SC: Alfred Mudekereza (GK), Grant Matsiko, Enock Luyima, Hillary Mukundane, Rogers Torach, Patrick Mbowa,
Karim Watambala, Yunus Sentamu, Allan Okello, Milton Karisa, Pedro Sukuya.
NEC FC: Hannington Sebwalunyo (GK), Geriga Atendele, Jacob Okao, Patrick Bayiga, Gideon Odongo, Tembo Ibrahim, Paul Mucureezi, Muzamir Mutyaba, Marvin Kavuma, Cromwell Rwothomio.
What’s at Stake?
This game could decide who takes control of the title race heading into the final stretch of the season. Vipers will be eyeing revenge for their opening-day defeat, while NEC want to prove their opening win wasn’t a fluke and cement their fairy tale season with silverware.
With quality on both sides, tactical intelligence from the dugouts, and passionate support from the stands, all is set for a thrilling encounter in Kitende.
Prediction: A tight affair, but the edge in experience and home advantage might tilt it in Vipers’ favor. A 1-1 draw.
