CAF Champions League | Preliminary Round 2
- Vipers Vs Power Dynamos- Kitende | 7pm
Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC are set for a high-stakes encounter against Zambia’s Power Dynamos in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, on Sunday.
The Venoms, who defeated Namibia’s African Stars 2–0 on aggregate in the previous round, face a tough test against the Zambians, who advanced past ASEC Mimosas on penalties after a 1–1 aggregate draw.
With the stadium expected to be near full capacity, Vipers aim to use the home advantage to launch a strong continental campaign.
Head Coach Ivan Minnaert expressed confidence in his squad.
“We are fully prepared and focused on this round. Everyone on the technical staff has contributed, and I believe we can win on Sunday,” he said.
On the importance of the tie, Minnaert added: “There is no difference between this game and the one against African Stars. The goal is the same, reaching the group stages. You cannot get there without winning these rounds.”
Minnaert also highlighted the wider significance for Ugandan football.
“This is a chance to show our progress. For our president, reaching the group stages would be a huge reward for all he has done for the team and the coaches,” he said.
Experience will be key, with around 80 percent of the starting lineup expected to be seasoned players accustomed to high-pressure games.
“We don’t need to feel the pressure. We just need to enjoy the game, fight for every metre, and score goals,” Minnaert said.
Key players include Milton Karisa, Allan Okello, Yunus Sentamu, Hilary Mukundane, Karim Watambala, and Tadeo Lwanga, providing a mix of experience and youthful energy.
Despite Power Dynamos’ historic pedigree, they eliminated KCCA in 1998 and won the CAF Cup Winners’ Cup in 1991, the Zambians have yet to reach the group stages under the current format, giving Vipers reason for optimism.
Two seasons ago, the Ugandans overcame TP Mazembe to reach the group stages, proving their ability to compete at the continental level.
