Joseph Data scored the only goal against Busoga United as NEC progressed to its first ever quarterfinals of the Stanbic Uganda Cup at Kakindu Stadium on Tuesday.Â
The wingback continued his impressive form, and the goal against Busoga United brought his overall tally to 9 goals, with 4 coming in the Uganda Cup and 5 in the Uganda Premier League.
The two teams struggled to break the deadlock in the early stages and a notable opportunity arose from a well-delivered ball into the box, with Rashid Okocha setting up Dhata for a powerful shot that unfortunately went off target.Â
Moments later, midfielder Allan Mugalu unleashed a shot from the edge of the box, which sailed over the cross bar.
Okocha drew a foul at the edge of the box, leading to a free-kick taken by Gaddafi Wahab, but the opposition managed to clear the danger. The game remained goalless, with goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan making a crucial save to keep the score level.
As the first half progressed, Mugalu was brought down and received treatment from the medics, as Sulaiman Ssesaazi took the subsequent free-kick, which went wide.Â
The turning point came when Dhata capitalized on a defensive mix-up, seizing a loose ball to powerfully slot it into the back of the net, giving NEC a 1-0 lead at the 40th-minute mark.
The second half saw several changes, with Ibrahim Thembo replacing Wahab and Kayanja coming on for Rashid Okocha. Also, Captain Marvin Kavuma replaced Cromwell Rwothomio. Dhata, having made a significant impact, was booked for a challenge on the opposition.
Dhata continued to be a threat, attempting a bicycle kick that was saved. The match concluded with Dhata’s powerful shot securing a 1-0 victory and propelling NEC to the quarterfinals awaiting draws.
NEC will focus shifts to their upcoming league game against Gaddafi this coming Saturday at the Gaddafi Arena in Jinja.
Next round of 16 fixtures – Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
• Vipers SC Vs Iganga Young – KitendeÂ
