NEC FC forward Richard Basangwa is in stable condition after suffering a serious throat injury during their Uganda Premier League goalless draw against Express FC on Tuesday evening at Nakivubo Stadium.

Basangwa was injured in the 90th minute following a dangerous challenge from Express defender Glory Kisule, who appeared to strike him with an elbow to the neck.

The referee immediately stopped play, awarded a foul, and sent off Kisule.

In a statement released on Wednesday, NEC FC confirmed that Basangwa underwent a CT scan at Case Clinic, which returned negative and ruled out any serious internal damage.

“A paracetamol infusion was administered and a CT scan was promptly carried out. The CT scan results came back negative, ruling out any serious internal damage. His condition has since improved significantly. He is now able to breathe more comfortably and can speak in a low but clear tone,” the club said.

Basangwa was admitted overnight for observation and was scheduled for review by an ENT specialist on Wednesday morning.

If no further complications are found, he is expected to be discharged.

The incident caused significant distress on the pitch, with Basangwa struggling to breathe and speak after hitting the ground.

Medical personnel rushed to attend to him, and he remained down for several minutes.

The situation was compounded by the lack of a functional ambulance at the stadium.

Reports indicate the on-site ambulance had no medical equipment and a flat tire, forcing officials to improvise by using a Toyota Land Cruiser to rush the player to hospital.

The match itself ended in a 0-0 draw, with NEC FC now focusing on Basangwa’s recovery while continuing their league campaign.