Vipers SC continued their impressive form in the Stanbic Uganda Cup, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Mbarara City on Thursday night at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, to book their place in the round of 16.
Under the floodlights, the Venoms controlled proceedings, with their star men, Allan Okello and Yunus Sentamu, once again delivering crucial moments to guide the team past a resilient Mbarara City side.
Sentamu Breaks the Deadlock
Mbarara City showed early defensive discipline, frustrating Vipers’ attacking efforts. However, the breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Yunus Sentamu rose highest to head home a perfectly delivered cross from left-back Derrick Ndahiiro.
The goal was a deserved reward for Vipers’ attacking intent, as they had dominated possession and forced Mbarara into deep defensive positions.
The hosts had an opportunity to double their lead before halftime when Abdul Karim Watambala found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but his shot flew over the crossbar, keeping the visitors in the game as the first half ended 1-0.
Mbarara’s Missed Chance and Okello’s Magic
Mbarara City nearly found an equalizer in the second half when striker Henry Kitegenyi broke free of the offside trap and went one-on-one with Vipers goalkeeper Denis Kiggundu. However, he failed to hit the target, dragging his shot wide in what was their best chance of the game.
Things got worse for the visitors in the 78th minute when their captain, Edward Namasa, was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Allan Okello.
With Mbarara reduced to ten men, Vipers took full advantage of the situation. Just four minutes later, Okello put the game beyond doubt with a stunning free kick, curling the ball past goalkeeper Abdul Kimera from a tight angle to seal a 2-0 victory.
Vipers Stay on Course for a Domestic Double
The result mirrored Vipers’ recent 2-0 league win over KCCA, where both Okello and Sentamu were also on the scoresheet.
With the Venoms leading the Uganda Premier League standings, they remain strong contenders for a domestic double this season.
Vipers now advance to the last 16 of the 51st edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup, joining defending champions Kitara, SC Villa, Rwenzori Lions, Kaaro Karungi, and Total in the next round.
