NEC FC welcome Vipers SC this Friday afternoon in a high-stakes Stanbic Uganda Cup quarter-final showdown at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, with kickoff set for 3pm.
The fixture rekindles a growing rivalry between the two sides, who have already faced off twice this season. Vipers, also known as the Venoms, claimed victory in the first meeting at Lugogo before NEC fought back to secure a draw in the return leg at Kitende.
Both teams arrive at this stage on the back of convincing performances in the previous round. NEC dispatched fellow Uganda Premier League side Lugazi FC with a solid 2-0 win, while Vipers comfortably brushed aside FUFA Big League outfit Iganga United with a dominant 4-0 display.
NEC head into the contest brimming with confidence, boasting a strong defensive record in recent matches.
Their attacking threat is expected to be led by Muhammad Ssenoga, Richard Basangwa, and Innocent Media, while Allan Mugalu, Joseph Sseremba, and Tonny Atukunda will be tasked with controlling proceedings in midfield.
Vipers, on the other hand, will look to their experienced core to deliver once again. Key figures such as Milton Karisa, Yunus Sentamu, Usama Arafat, and Karim Watambala are expected to play pivotal roles as the visitors chase a semi-final berth.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, NEC head coach Badru Kaddu expressed belief in his team’s readiness and form.
“Our preparations have been good, and the players know what is at stake. To prove yourself among the best, you must overcome the strongest opponents. We have been solid defensively in recent games, and maintaining that will be crucial,” he noted.
Vipers head coach Jacky Ivan Minnaert emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum across all competitions.
“Every match matters for us. We are pushing to stay consistent both in the league and the cup. One of our key targets is reaching the Uganda Cup final, and today’s game is about getting that step closer. It’s a must-win situation,” he stated.
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