NEC Football Club have departed for Nairobi with their eyes firmly set on redemption in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The Bugolobi-based side carries the weight of a frustrating 2-2 draw from the first leg against Nairobi United, but head coach Hussein Mbalangu insists his men have the firepower to turn the tide at Nyayo Stadium this Saturday.
In the home tie, Cromwell Rwothomio and Paul Mucureezi sent fans into a frenzy with crucial goals, only for a late strike from Kibwana to deny NEC a much-needed advantage.
Paul Muchurezi (right) and Innocent Media – Credit NEC FC media team
NEC will have to make the trip with key forward Cromwell Rwothomio doubtful because he picked up an injury, while midfield anchors Emmanuel Kulanga and James Jarieko also remain doubtful.
Travelling Squad
Despite the setbacks, NEC boasts a strong 23-man squad led by captain Ochan Benjamin and seasoned campaigners like Siraje Sentamu, Titus Ssematimba, and Paul Mucureezi.
Squad List:
Ochan Benjamin
Ssebwalunyo Hannington
Kiirya Samson
Atendele Jeriga
Kiiza Mustapha
Okao Jacob
Buule Waren
Siraje Sentamu
Waibi Charles
Titus Ssematimba
Cromwell Rwothomio
Kulanga Emma
Jarieko James
Odongo Gideon
Dhata Joseph
Kiyemba Ibrahim
Shamiru Kimwero
Media Innocent
Seremba Joseph
Mutyaba Muzamir
Kavuma Marvin
Mucureezi Paul
Ajo Emmanuel
Officials:
Head coach: Hussein Mbalangu
Assistants: Dudu Bosco, James Odoch
Support staff: Byuma Muwada, Farouk Osama, Isaac Ssenoga, Latifu Kasirye, Akena, Emojong, Bayizi Moses, Ezera Muhumuza, Raymond Kayungiriizi, Faizal, Andy Obonyo
The clash at Nyayo National Stadium promises to be a fiery contest, with the aggregate winner sealing passage to the CAF Confederation Cup pre-group stages.