KCCA FC endured a disappointing start to the second round of the Uganda Premier League, falling 3–1 to NEC FC in a lively Lugogo derby on Friday night.
New signing Richard Basangwa stole the spotlight on his NEC debut, netting twice, while Joseph Sseremba also found the back of the net to secure all three points for the visitors.
Ivan Ahimbisibwe’s second-half header proved only a consolation for KCCA.
Basangwa, who recently joined from Express FC, opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after being afforded space inside the box before firing past goalkeeper Charles Lukwago.
KCCA responded after the break, with Ahimbisibwe rising highest to head in off the post following a delivery from Umar Lutalo, briefly restoring parity for the hosts at Omondi Stadium Lugogo.
NEC regained control when Muhammad Ssenoga’s header fell kindly to Sseremba, who volleyed home to restore the lead.
Basangwa later sealed the result, bundling in from close range after Ibrahim Musa’s headed assist.
The defeat compounds KCCA’s struggles, coming on the heels of a loss to Entebbe UPPC in their final match of the first round. And after 16 games, KCCA sit fifth on 30 points, seven behind league leaders Vipers SC.
For NEC head coach Badru Kaddu, the victory carries added significance against his former employers, as his side climbs to 23 points.
