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Then, Mbalangu left his role as Mbarara City's head coach, citing lack of financial support, poor player welfare and administration.
When NEC FC take on Mbarara City FC at Kakyeka on Friday, tactician Hussein Mbalangu will be making a return to the West following his unceremonial departure in January 2022.
Then, Mbalangu left his role as Mbarara City's head coach, citing lack of financial support, poor player welfare and administration.
The tactician, who joined the club in September 2021, left his role four months later after going two months without pay.
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13:25 - 14.09.2023
FOOTBALL KCCA FC reveal squad for CAF Confederation Cup tie
Team captain Julius Poloto, and defenders Peter Magambo and Philbert Obenchan are some of the players to have played for KCCA on the continent before, and their experience will come in handy.
Close to two years later, Mbalangu returns to Kakyeka with newly promoted NEC, ready to start the season on a high and remind Mbarara City of what they missed by letting him go.
The two sides will face off in one of three matches lined up to open the new Startimes Uganda Premier League season.
"We planned well for this trip and arrived early, ensuring a safe journey and ample rest for the team," Mbalangu said ahead of the match.
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13:20 - 14.09.2023
FOOTBALL Savio Kabugo joins Lugazi FC
The defender had been a free agent since departing Botswana's Jwaneng Galaxy in October last year. He had signed a one year contract with the Botswana club at the start of the year.
Since earning promotion to the top flight, NEC have been active in the transfer window and brought in experience to help in the fight to maintain their status at the end of the campaign.
Goalkeeper Samson Kiirya, Brian Kayanja, Rashid Okocha and veteran Geoffrey are some of the players with league experience the Bugolobi-based side will be counting on.
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Meanwhile, Ibrahim Thembo will be turning the guns towards his former paymasters, having featured for the Ankole Lions as they earned promotion back to the UPL.
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12:00 - 14.09.2023
FOOTBALL Official: Another Brazilian departs Vipers
It is worth noting that Tinga departs without having made an official appearance for the Kitende side, apart from participating in an international friendly against AS Kigali at Kitende over a month ago.
"Our preparations have been meticulous over the past eight weeks, and this away game is no different," Mbalangu added.
"We understand the significance of this match, especially considering the history between the two clubs."
In matches between the two sides last season, spoils were shared. A goalless draw at the Coffee Grounds in Bugoloobi and a 1-1 stalemate at Kakyeka meant that there wasn't anything to separate the two.
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15:20 - 13.09.2023
FOOTBALL Alpha Ssali and six other youngsters expected to light up UPL
Among players expected to light up the league are youngsters looking to leave a mark and establish themselves in Ugandan football circles.
"The team is brimming with energy, and we believe it's our turn to secure maximum points."
Mbarara City, under the tutelage of Wasswa Bossa, will rely on the home crowd and the services of new signings Joseph Akandwanaho, Innocent Wafula, Richard Wandyaka, Pius Kaggwa and Yunus Sibira to get off to a flying start.
Startimes Uganda Premier League
Friday fixture
Mbarara City vs. NEC FC -4pm, Kakyeka
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