At the Nakivubo Stadium, Express FC defeated Mbale Heroes 2-1 thanks to a brace from striker Sam Ssenyonjo, who made a dream debut.
Express overcame a resolute Mbale Heroes team by maintaining composure in the closing moments of the match.
After a hectic transfer window, both teams had a sizable number of debutantes in their starting lineups going into the match.
After Samson Kasozi pulled down Ssenyonjo in the box in the 26th minute, Express had a fantastic opportunity to take the lead through a penalty kick, but Mustafa Kizza blasted the ball over the cross bar.
After intense pressure from both teams to break the tie, Express did so in the 54th minute through Ssenyonjo.
The former KCCA striker expertly finished a great spadework move by Alpha Thierry Ssali, who had just entered the game at the beginning of the second half, from close range.
In the 84th minute, Ssenyonjo extended the advantage with another spectacular strike after Michael Kimera had assisted with a header.
In the 87th minute, Mbale Heroes—who are led by former Express and Uganda Cranes defender Richard Malinga—pushed for a late victory over Davis Ssekajja.
After Sula Mpanga’s playful free kick, Ssekajja was unmarked in the box to pull one back.
Pius Kaggwa’s long-range attempt struck the crossbar in the final minute of added time, denying the Mbale-based team an equalizer.
On Thursday, September 19, Express will play Vipers SC in Kitende, while on Saturday, September 22, Mbale Heroes will host SC Villa.
Full Match Day One Results
• KCCA FC 1-0 URA FC
• Lugazi FC 0-3 Kitara
• Wakiso Giants 1-1 Soltilo Bright Stars
• Maroons 1-1 UPDF FC
• NEC FC 3-1 Vipers SC
• Police FC 0-0 BUL FC
• SC Villa 4-2 Mbarara City
• Express FC 2-1 Mbale Heroes
