Kampala, Uganda: Vipers SC’s aspirations of advancing in the CAF Champions League have taken a significant blow following a 2-1 defeat to Zambia’s Power Dynamos in the first leg of the second preliminary round. The match took place at St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende on Sunday night, leaving the home fans with a sense of disappointment.
The game started slowly, with both teams struggling to create meaningful chances in the first half. However, the tide turned just two minutes into the second half when Vipers’ striker, Yunus Sentamu, found the net. After a defensive mix-up from Power Dynamos, Sentamu seized the opportunity, tapping in a loose ball to give Vipers a brief lead and ignite the hopes of the home crowd.
Unfortunately for the Venoms, the joy was short-lived. Just eight minutes later, Power Dynamos’ Moses Shuma capitalized on a defensive error, skillfully converting an equalizer past goalkeeper Derrick Kiggundu. This setback shifted momentum significantly, as Vipers struggled to regain control of the match.
As the clock ticked down, disaster struck for the home side in the 77th minute. In an unfortunate turn of events, left-back Derrick Ndahiro inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a teasing cross from the left flank. This own goal sent a wave of frustration through the stands as thousands of loyal fans looked on helplessly.
In a bid to salvage the match, Vipers introduced substitutes Enock Ssebagala and debutant Arafat Usama, hoping to inject the needed pace and urgency. Despite their best efforts, the Zambian champions held steadfast against the late onslaught, securing a crucial advantage to take back home for the second leg.
With the return leg scheduled for Friday in Kitwe, Vipers SC faces an uphill battle. The team must secure a victory by at least two clear goals to keep their hopes alive in the continental competition. Fans are hoping for a remarkable turnaround as the Venoms prepare for the decisive clash ahead.
