NEC FC suspends head coach Hussein Mbalangu over misconduct

NEC FC has suspended head coach Hussein Mbalangu for two months over what the club has described as “professional and ethical misconduct.”

The decision follows the team’s early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup at the hands of Kenya’s Nairobi United, coupled with a sluggish start to the new Uganda Premier League season.

In an official statement released on Monday, October 20, the club confirmed the development:

“Head Coach Mbalangu Hussein has been suspended due to professional and ethical misconduct, effective immediately. In the interim, James Odoch will assume the role of Head Coach.”

Sources indicate that Mbalangu’s suspension is linked to his involvement in the Masaza Cup, where he has been serving as a technical official for this year’s finalists, Ssingo—raising questions about divided focus and commitment.

The Die Hards have had a rocky start to the season, drawing both of their opening league fixtures: 1–1 against URA FC and 2–2 against Police FC.

With Mbalangu sidelined, assistant coach James Odoch has been tasked with leading the team as they prepare to face Entebbe UPPC FC on Saturday, October 25, at Bugonga Fisheries Grounds.

In a further setback, NEC FC confirmed that defender Jacob Okao will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an Achilles tendon rupture during the draw against Police FC on October 18.

A club statement read:

“Our defender Jacob Okao has successfully undergone surgery at Case Clinic after sustaining an Achilles tendon rupture. He is expected to be out for 6–12 months as he begins his recovery journey.”

The procedure was covered under the FUFA Medical Insurance Scheme, offering some relief to both the player and the club.

Okao has been a key figure in NEC’s backline, featuring prominently in the Uganda Premier League, Uganda Cup, Super 8, and the CAF Confederation Cup since last season. His absence leaves NEC with Ibrahim Kiyemba, Warren Bbuule, and David Bayiga as the remaining centre-back options.

Despite being only in their second season in the top flight, NEC FC impressed last campaign, finishing second on the 16-team log with 67 points—just two behind champions Vipers SC.