Uganda Cup Semifinal | First Leg
- Vipers SC 1-0 Kitara FC
Under the floodlights of St. Mary’s Stadium, Vipers SC snatched a dramatic 1-0 win over Kitara FC in the first leg of the Uganda Cup semifinal, with substitute Yunus Sentamu emerging the hero in the dying seconds of stoppage time.
The clash, marked by grit and tension, saw both sides locked in a fierce tactical duel, each aware of what was at stake.
The first half offered little in terms of goalmouth action with chances scarce and defences standing tall.
Kitara, well-drilled and disciplined, frustrated the hosts at every turn, absorbing pressure while looking to break on the counter.
After the break, Vipers emerged with renewed urgency. They controlled possession, pinned Kitara back and began to probe for an opening. Yet despite their territorial dominance, the breakthrough remained elusive.
Gusto Mulongo, brought on to inject pace and creativity, spurned a golden opportunity after being set up beautifully by Pedro Sukuya, a moment that nearly proved costly.
But in a match that teetered on the edge of stalemate, it was Yunus Sentamu who seized the spotlight. Introduced in the second half, the experienced forward showed his class when it mattered most.
In the final seconds of stoppage time, a defensive lapse by Kitara gifted Sentamu rare chance and he made no mistake.
With composure and clinical precision, he slotted the ball past a stranded Chrispus Kusiima, sending the Kitende faithful into raptures.
The late goal not only secured a vital home win but handed Vipers a slender advantage heading into the second leg.
With dreams of a domestic double still alive, the reigning league champions will look to protect their lead when the tie resumes in Hoima on May 17.
Uganda Cup action will continue tomorrow on Sunday, May 4 when KCCA FC host Kataka in Lugogo.
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.
