SC Villa vs NEC FC: Title Ambitions on the Line as Rivals Clash in Penultimate Fixture
On the other side, NEC FC have everything to play for. Sitting in second place with 61 points, they are still mathematically in the title race, trailing leaders Vipers SC by four points with only two matches to play.
Wankulukuku Stadium is set to witness a highly anticipated clash on Wednesday evening as SC Villa host NEC FC in what promises to be a thrilling encounter with title implications for the visitors and pride at stake for the hosts.
This fixture will mark the fourth meeting between the two sides. Historically, SC Villa holds the edge with two victories against one defeat—a record they will be determined to improve, especially in front of their home fans.
While SC Villa, the reigning Uganda Premier League champions, are no longer in the title race this season, they are approaching the game with a strong desire to finish the campaign on a high. Currently 6th on the table with 42 points, the Jogoos have set their sights on a top-four finish, a goal they hope to achieve by winning their remaining fixtures.
SC Villa’s coach Morley Byekwaso and players have sounded a clear warning to NEC FC: they will show no mercy. The team’s intent is to play spoiler in NEC’s title hopes and demonstrate the same resolve that won them the league last season.
On the other side, NEC FC have everything to play for. Sitting in second place with 61 points, they are still mathematically in the title race, trailing leaders Vipers SC by four points with only two matches to play. For NEC, anything less than a win will all but end their dreams of lifting their maiden league crown.
Interestingly, this fixture was the deciding match of last season, when Villa stunned NEC 2-0 at Lugogo, clinching the title in dramatic fashion on the final day. Vipers and BUL were also in contention, but Villa’s composed and clinical performance ensured they took the glory.
That memory will be fresh for NEC, who will be seeking revenge and redemption. They did manage to win the reverse fixture earlier this season, securing a 2-1 victory at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo. Paul Mucureezi and Cromwell Rwothomio scored the vital goals to cancel out Hakim Kiwanuka’s early strike for Villa.
What’s at Stake?
For NEC, the stakes are clear:
Win or see the title dream fade.
Hope that Kitara can stop or beat Vipers in their simultaneous fixture in Butema.
For Villa:
A chance to finish in the top four and defend their pride as reigning champions.
A chance to assert dominance over a growing rival and shape the outcome of the title race.
Key Players to Watch
Hakim Kiwanuka (SC Villa) – Having scored in the reverse fixture, he will be keen to make his mark again.
Paul Mucureezi
& Cromwell Rwothomio (NEC FC) – The duo has already proven their scoring prowess against Villa and will be crucial in NEC’s attack.
Meddie Kibirige (Villa goalkeeper) – A solid performance from him will be key to shutting down NEC’s hopes.
While SC Villa may be out of the title equation, their role in the drama of the season’s climax is undeniable. NEC FC face a must-win scenario with pressure mounting and margins razor-thin. With Vipers’ fate also hanging in the balance based on Kitara’s performance, Wednesday’s showdown will likely be a defining moment of the Uganda Premier League 2024/25 season.
Kick-off at Wankulukuku promises passion, purpose, and plenty of plot twists.
