Vipers advance to Uganda Cup quarters; Kataka upset URA
Vipers, currently leading the Uganda Premier League with 49 points, took control early in the match.
Yunus Sentamu opened the scoring in the 31st minute. File photo
Chrispus Baluku
Journalist @New Vision
2024-2025 Stanbic Uganda Cup
Round of 16
Vipers 3 – 0 Black Powers
URA 1 (3) – 1 (5) Kataka
Kaaro Karungi 3-0 UPDF
Vipers SC advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2024-2025 Stanbic Uganda Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Blacks Power FC on Wednesday night at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Despite missing key players due to international duty, coach Fred Muhumuza’s side delivered a dominant performance to secure their place in the next round.
“We knew we were facing a competitive team, one fighting for promotion in the big league,” Muhumuza said. “Knockout games are all about the result. It’s not just about how well you play or move the ball. We came here focused on winning, and we achieved that.”
Vipers, currently leading the Uganda Premier League with 49 points, took control early in the match. Yunus Sentamu opened the scoring in the 31st minute, finishing a precise pass from Pedro Sukuya. The Angolan midfielder then turned from provider to scorer, doubling the lead in the 59th minute. Just two minutes later, Livingstone Mulondo headed home a Sukuya corner to seal the 3-0 victory.
Despite the absence of Allan Okello, Rogers Torach, and Karim Watambala, who are on duty with the Uganda Cranes, Vipers showcased their depth and quality to comfortably progress. “We are ready to face any opponent in the next round,” Muhumuza declared. “Our focus now shifts back to the Premier League, but our aim is to win everything.”
Blacks Power, who had a bye in the Round of 64 and stunned NEC FC 1-0 in the Round of 32, struggled to break down Vipers’ defense. Despite their efforts, they were unable to mount a comeback.
In other Round of 16 action, Kataka FC pulled off a major upset by eliminating three-time Uganda Cup champions URA FC. The match ended 1-1 after regular time, with Kataka winning 5-3 in a penalty shootout. Meanwhile, Kaaro Karungi FC secured a 3-0 victory over UPDF FC at Kyamate Stadium to book their place in the quarterfinals.
The quarterfinal lineup includes Vipers, Kataka, Kaaro Karungi, BUL, Police, SC Villa, KCCA, and defending champions Kitara. The winner of the Uganda Cup will earn a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup, adding further significance to the competition.