Uganda Premier League side KCCA FC ended a seven-year wait for silverware on Tuesday after defeating NEC 1-0 in the FUFA Super 8 final at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.
Tournament MVP Saidi Mayanja’s first-half penalty proved decisive in a closely contested encounter as KCCA secured the early-season trophy. The key moment came in the 35th minute when Daniel Shabene was adjudged to have made contact with Yunus Sibira inside the penalty area.
Despite NEC’s protests, the referee awarded KCCA a penalty, which Mayanja converted to put his side ahead. The goal came shortly after NEC forward Richard Basangwa had missed an opportunity to open the scoring, heading wide from a promising position.
NEC increased the pressure after the interval in search of an equaliser, while KCCA looked to protect their advantage. KCCA came close to extending their lead 10 minutes into the second half when Emmanuel Anyama created an opening for Sibira, but the midfielder’s effort went over the crossbar.
NEC continued to push late on and almost levelled six minutes from time. However, KCCA goalkeeper Mutwalibu Mugolofa produced an important save, diving to palm away Enrique Lubwama’s powerful long-range effort.
Mayanja was named Most Valuable Player, while Basangwa finished as the tournament’s top scorer. Mugolofa received the Best Goalkeeper award, with NEC taking the Fair Play accolade.
KCCA’s last major trophy came in the 2019 CECAFA Club Cup, and the club has since gone through a period of transition, including the departure of legendary coach Mike Mutebi in 2021.
Tournament Accolades
Fair Play: NEC
MVP: Saidi Mayanja
Top Scorer: Richard Basangwa
Best Goalkeeper: Mutwalibu Mugolofa
