Overview:
And with the lead in the league cut to just three points, pressure is mounting on Minnaert and a result that doesn’t guarantee progression to the final in the cup could spike disaster.
Friday May 15, 2026
- St. Mary’s stadium, Kitende 7pm [Agg: 0-0]
The Stanbic Uganda Cup final dream will be realized for either Vipers or Kitara on Friday evening, when the two lock horns in the second leg of the semi-final at the St. Mary’s stadium, Kitende.
Nearly two weeks ago, the two sides settled for a goalless stalemate in Butema, leaving the tie evenly poised although it put Jacky Ivan Minnaert side at a marginal advantage playing the decisive game in front of their fans.
In the reverse fixture, Kitara left frustrated as they had all the chances to take a lead but were undone by Derrick Kiggundu heroics in Vipers goal who made over five clean saves on the day.
The Venoms were however bitter after losing their captain Milton Karisa in the first half to a high boot on the shin by Jasper Aheebwa who was only cautioned for what appeared like a red card offence.
Since that game, the two side’s form has been abysmal with Vipers drawing subsequent league matches to URA and Police while Kitara lost to NEC and Express.
And with the lead in the league cut to just three points, pressure is mounting on Minnaert and a result that doesn’t guarantee progression to the final in the cup could spike disaster.
For George Lutalo, elimination by Vipers at this stage will imply another trophyless season despite high investment by club President Deo Kasozi in the squad.
Team News
Milton Karisa and Enock Luyima (both injured) remain doubts for the game while Taddeo Lwanga is suspended for two accumulated bookings.
Derrick Kiggundu sat out the game against Police on the bench but could be recalled to start between the posts.
Meanwhile, Lutalo shuffled his pack in the defeat to Express leaving out Muhammad Shaban, Frank Tumwesigye, Murushid Jjuuko, Henry Musisi and George Ssenkaaba completely while Yunus Sibira and Jimmy Kalema started on the bench showing intent that focus is solely on the Kitende clash.
Meddie Kibirige is also available for selection despite missing two league matches through suspension
Probable line-ups:
Vipers: Kiggundu (GK), Mandela, Ndahiro, Mukundane ©, Torach, Youngman, Ssebagala, Watambala, Chukwuma, Beyuku, Usama
Kitara: Kibirige ©, Musisi, Aheebwa ©, Jjuuko, Nyakoojo, Sibira, Ssenoga, Zaga, Kaddu, Kalema, Kabon
