Defending Stanbic Uganda Cup champions Vipers SC booked their place in the Round of 32 after edging Northern Gateway FC 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter played in Lira on Thursday.
The Venoms had to dig deep in difficult conditions but were eventually saved by a moment of brilliance from Chukwuma Chukwurah, whose first-half strike proved decisive.
Vipers head coach Ivan Jacky Minnaert showed his seriousness for the tie by naming a strong starting line-up, leaving little room for complacency against the Lira-based outfit.
The game was played on a dusty surface under intense heat, factors that made the contest physically demanding and slowed the pace of play.
Vipers suffered an early setback in the 19th minute when experienced midfielder Hillary Mukundane was forced off due to injury. He was replaced by Rogers Torach.
Despite the disruption, the visitors kept their composure and found the breakthrough just before the halftime whistle. In the 43rd minute, Chukwurah produced a fine individual effort, weaving past defenders before curling a superb shot into the bottom corner to hand Vipers the lead.
Northern Gateway responded strongly after the break and attempted to force an equaliser, but Vipers remained organised defensively and managed the game with maturity.
The narrow victory ensures the holders remain on course to retain the trophy as they advance to the next stage of the competition.
Uganda Cup Round of 64 Results
- Busia Youngstars 1-2 Mbarara City
- Northern Gateway 0-1 Vipers
- St George Masindi 0-2 KCCA
- Tapah 1-0 Buhimba United
- Pakwach Youngstars 1(6)-1(7) Express
- Nsambya 0-1 UPDF
- Agape United 0-7 BUL
- Six O’clock 1-0 Mbale Heroes
