The Uganda Premier League returns after a month-long break, with a highly anticipated clash between table leaders Vipers SC and fifth-placed URA FC at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. Vipers, who finished the first round in strong form with three consecutive wins, currently lead the table with 34 points, just one ahead of NEC. A win would extend their lead before NEC plays later in the week.
URA, sitting on 24 points, has an opportunity to cut the deficit to seven points with a victory. However, their recent record against Vipers has been poor, losing their last three league meetings without scoring a goal. Under the guidance of former Vipers coach Alex Isabirye, the Tax Collectors will be eager to turn their fortunes around and revive their title hopes.
In terms of head-to-head encounters, URA holds a slight advantage historically, winning 16 of their 40 league meetings compared to Vipers’ 11 victories. However, Vipers have dominated recent fixtures, winning the last three encounters 2-0, including their first-round victory at Nakivubo. The hosts will be confident of maintaining their dominance, especially with their strong home record.
Vipers might be without captain Milton Karisa, who is recovering from injury, while striker Yunus Sentamu returns from suspension. New signing Isaac Ogwang could make his debut, while midfielder Marvin Youngman is unavailable due to a suspension. URA will look to their in-form striker Ivan Ahimbisibwe, who has scored nine goals this season, to trouble Vipers’ defense, which will be missing left-back Derrick Ndahiro due to suspension.
A victory for Vipers would complete a rare league double over URA for the second consecutive season and give them a four-point cushion at the top. Meanwhile, URA will see this match as a chance to break their losing streak and stay in the title race. Elsewhere, SC Villa visits Wakiso Giants in an early kickoff, while the week’s fixtures conclude with NEC taking on KCCA in a crucial Lugogo derby.
