The Uganda Cup has never been short on drama but Monday’s quarterfinal draw at Kansai Plascon headquarters in Kampala may have just set the stage for one of the tournament’s most tantalizing showdowns yet.
Three-time winners Vipers SC have been paired against SC Villa, the record nine-time champions, in a heavyweight clash that instantly became the headline fixture of the round.
The match will be hosted at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende, a venue that has seen Vipers build an imposing reputation over the years.
It’s a meeting soaked in pedigree, pride, and pressure, two current powerhouses of Ugandan football, colliding with everything to gain and even more to prove.
Both teams punched their tickets to the last eight with solid performances in the round of 16. Vipers saw off Blacks Power in convincing fashion while SC Villa overcame a spirited Lugazi FC side to keep their Cup hopes alive.
Now, with a place in the semifinals at stake, the stakes have never been higher.
For Vipers, this competition represents a shot at silverware after a season that has seen ups and downs in the league. Their Cup form, however, has been a sharp and efficient, methodical run that’s seen them glide past opponents with minimal fuss.
SC Villa on the other hand, arrive with history on their side and a renewed spirit under a squad that’s been showing grit and promise.
Their last Uganda Cup title came years ago, but in a season where they’ve shown moments of resurgence, eliminating a club like Vipers would be a statement win that would see them make a double over the Kitende side twice in a few months.
The quarterfinal draw wasn’t short on intrigue elsewhere either. Holders Kitara FC, fresh off a memorable Cup run last year, will face 2022 champions BUL FC in a titanic clash between recent winners. It’s a match that pits resilience against form with Kitara hoping to keep their crown while BUL seek a return to the summit.
Police FC, under the guidance of new head coach Matia Lule, have been handed a tricky assignment in Kataka FC, a side that shocked many by eliminating URA FC in the previous round. That giant-killing act means Police must tread carefully.
Meanwhile, ten-time winners KCCA FC have a long trip ahead as they’re set to face Kaaro Karungi. The Lugogo-based side have shown flashes of brilliance in the competition and will be eager to stamp their authority against a lesser-known opponent with ambitions of their own.
According to FUFA’s competitions department, all quarterfinal matches will be played between April 18th and 22nd with provisions for extra time and penalty shootouts in case of draws after 90 minutes.
Full Uganda Cup Quarterfinal draw
- Police Vs Kataka FC
- Vipers SC Vs SC Villa
- Kitara FC Vs BUL FC
- Kaaro Karungi Vs KCCA
As the 51st edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup unfolds, excitement continues to build. Co-sponsored by Plascon Uganda, the tournament remains a crucial platform for young players to showcase their talent and for lower league teams to challenge the giants of Ugandan football.
