STANBIC UGANDA CUP | SEMI-FINAL

Saturday’s Result

Vipers SC 1-0 Kitara FC

Vipers Sports Club earned a crucial 1-0 first-leg win over Kitara FC in the semi-finals of the Stanbic Uganda Cup on Saturday evening at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. 

In a match defined by tactical discipline and few clear chances, it was substitute Yunus Sentamu who delivered the decisive moment with a spectacular late strike.

Overhead Brilliance

With the game seemingly heading for a stalemate, Sentamu—introduced off the bench—rose to the occasion in sublime style.

In the fourth minute of added time, the Vipers forward acrobatically converted a long ball from goalkeeper Dennis Kiggundu with an overhead kick, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the Kitara backline who were also guilty of deflecting the ball into their own net.

The goal sent the home crowd into raptures and handed the Venoms a slender advantage ahead of the return leg.

Chances at a Premium

The semi-final was a tightly contested affair. Kitara, well-organized and physical, made life difficult for the hosts, with goalkeeper Crispus Kusiima producing smart saves to deny early efforts from Milton Karisa and Allan Okello. 

Kitara nearly stunned the home side when Patrick Kaddu struck the frame and Jude Ssemugabi curled a shot just wide after a clever pass from Rogers Mugisha.

Pressure Pays Off

After the interval, Vipers turned up the pressure. Karisa and Okello continued to press, while Gusto Mulongo missed a gilt-edged chance after fine work from Pedro Sukuya.

Vipers controlled possession and territory, and their persistence paid off with Sentamu’s moment of magic.

One Foot in the Final

The win keeps Vipers’ dream of a second domestic double alive, as they remain top of the Uganda Premier League standings.

They now carry the advantage heading into the return leg at Royal Park Grounds in Hoima on May 17.

Focus Shifts to League Duties

Vipers now turn their attention back to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, where they are set to host Mbale Heroes FC on Wednesday, May 7, at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. 

The Venoms will be keen to maintain momentum across both competitions as they chase glory on two fronts.