By Lee Ofoymungu and Mike Rwothomio

In a surprising turn of events in the West Nile Regional League’s Match Week 2, league favourites Nebbi Central FC suffered a narrow defeat, losing 1-0 to Padea Rising Stars FC at the latter’s home ground in Zombo District.

A stunning goal by Francis Osman in the 27th minute sealed the fate of Nebbi Central, awarding Padea Rising Stars their first victory in the league. The win relieved the Zombo-based team, which had previously fallen 3-0 to Kuluva Rainbow in their opening match.

Following the match, some Nebbi Central fans voiced frustrations on social media, attributing their team’s loss to the challenging, rain-soaked conditions of the Padea Rising Stars pitch.

Under the guidance of experienced coach Chanceley Motgan, former Paidha Black Angels and Paidha United tactician, Padea Rising Stars—nicknamed the “Coffee Boys”—have shown renewed spirit, with Motgan’s strategy visibly taking effect.

Despite Nebbi Central’s strong preseason signings aimed at strengthening their roster, this loss underscores the unpredictable nature of the league and the determination of lesser-known teams like Padea Rising Stars.

In another tense matchup, Paidha United SC emerged triumphant with a 1-0 victory over Arua’s Kuluva Rainbow at the King Stadium Cana, just outside Paidha town. Star player Francis Cwinyaai, also known as “Bright Lone,” came off the bench in the second half to score the decisive goal, extending Paidha United’s undefeated streak. This latest win marks Paidha United’s sixth win in seven encounters with Kuluva Rainbow, with one match ending in a draw.

Paidha United SC head coach, Rwothomio Edward—known as Coach Eddy—expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance and noted their improvement from their last match, which ended in a draw against Arua City FC.

Meanwhile, Parombo Mission Stars, new entrants to the regional league, celebrated their debut win with a 1-0 victory over Okollo Central FC.

The week’s other games included a goalless draw between Ovisoni FC and Nile Hippos FC, a narrow 1-0 victory by Odramacaku FC over Kochi Urban, and a 2-1 win by Nyangilia Super Eagles against Yumbe Hotspur.

On Saturday, November 2, Padea Rising Stars defeated Nebbi Central FC, Paidha United SC prevailed over Kuluva Rainbow, and Okokoro United claimed a 1-0 victory against Koboko Rising Stars.

The league action continues with Sunday’s games, featuring Pakwach Young Stars vs. Arua City, Alpha Rising Stars vs. Arua Airfield, Total FC vs. Araka FC, and Adjumani Town Council vs. Andruvu FC.

As competition heats up, the West Nile Regional League promises more surprises and fierce battles as teams strive to dominate the standings.