Uganda Premier League: Sebwalunyo’s late penalty earns NEC win over URA, UPDF sink Mbarara City

Matchday 22 of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League delivered contrasting storylines on Thursday, with late drama under the Lugogo floodlights and a long-awaited resurgence in Bombo shaping the day’s narrative.

At the MTN Omondi Stadium, NEC FC left it late to edge URA FC 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter settled by an unlikely hero.

Goalkeeper Hannington Sebwalunyo stepped up deep into stoppage time to convert a decisive penalty, extending NEC’s impressive unbeaten run this year.

The contest had struggled to spark into life for long periods, with both sides cautious and compact in the opening half, heading into the break goalless.

The tempo improved after the restart as tactical adjustments opened up the game, but clear-cut chances remained scarce.

A frantic finish saw opportunities at both ends in the 90th minute, with URA’s Joseph Ssemujju and NEC’s James Jarieko failing to capitalize.

Moments later, Jarieko was brought down in the box, handing NEC a golden chance.

With hesitation among the outfield players, Sebwalunyo assumed responsibility and confidently powered his effort into the top corner, sealing a dramatic victory.

The win secured back-to-back triumphs for NEC FC and lifted them to fifth place with 37 points, while URA FC’s struggles continued as they slipped to a second straight defeat, remaining 11th on 22 points.

Earlier in Bombo, UPDF FC produced a spirited display to defeat Mbarara City 3-1 and finally end their long wait for a league victory.

Today was a good day #StarTimesUPL #ssisikwassisi pic.twitter.com/kEYprMFcmx

— UPDF Football Club (@UpdfFootball) April 9, 2026

The hosts made their intentions clear early, with Emmanuel Ochen breaking the deadlock in the first half.

However, Mbarara City responded through Muhammed Kanyike, ensuring the sides were level at halftime.

The second half belonged to Samson Andrew Kigozi, who emerged as the difference-maker.

He restored UPDF’s lead shortly after the restart before striking again in the closing stages to wrap up the win with a clinical brace.

The result marked UPDF’s first league victory since December and provided a crucial boost in their survival bid, lifting them to 13th place with 17 points.

In contrast, Mbarara City slipped into the relegation zone, now 14th with 16 points.
Looking ahead, URA FC will return home to face BUL FC, while NEC FC prepare for a clash against Maroons.

UPDF FC host Express FC in their next outing, as Mbarara City seek a response against Police FC.

With late drama and decisive performances shaping proceedings, Matchday 22 continues to underline the intensity and unpredictability of the league run-in.