STANBIC UGANDA CUP | QUARTERS

Friday, April 14th, 2023 | 3pm

Vipers SC v Calvary FC

St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

Vipers SC’ search for a third Stanbic Uganda Cup will see us welcome Fufa Big League outfit Calvary FC in the quarterfinals at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Friday.

The Venoms picked their first win in over two months against Blacks Power FC (2-0) last Saturday and head coach Alex Isabirye senses gradual improvement in the squad ahead of tomorrow.

“We struggled in the past games but we’re now on the right track and the last game showed that,” he said to the club media.

“We’re trying to get to where we want to be and even though the game tomorrow won’t be easy but we have to win because we’re home,” he added.

The tactician also reiterated that he will take nothing for granted despite the game being against a second-tier outfit.

“I know it will not be an easy game because there’s no small team that reaches the quarterfinal so they’ll come wanting to go through, but we’re ready.”

Isabirye, in his general appreciation of the squad’s improvement, singled out star-forward Yunus Sentamu for praise, for his recent show of strong character.

“The character of the players is improving, for example Yunus (Sentamu) is improving day by day.”

“He is fighting, tracking back when needed and I trust that he will even do better,” the gaffer added.

Calvary and Vipers have not met in a single competitive match ever and tomorrow provides the perfect platform to write history.

Unlike the previous rounds, matches at this stage will head to extra-time before penalties should the spoils be shared.

Team News:

Midfielder Bright Anukani is out with a fever and as a precaution he was asked to take a rest.

Siraje Sentamu and Karim Watambala are still out since they are still on the road to recovery from a hamstring and knee problem respectively. 

Livingstone Mulondo is fully back after overcoming a knock on his ankle during his time with the National team (Uganda Cranes). 

Miguel Nzau Lutumba who had a great show in our last League fixture against Blacks Power FC suffered a knock to his knee and isn’t available.

Goalkeeper Alfred Mudekereza is still sidelined with a finger injury. But started his rehabilitation process this week.

Murushid Juuko, too, is still out nursing an injury and it is not yet clear when he will return.