Vipers SC Edge African Stars in Cape Town to Boost CAF Champions League Hopes

Vipers SC’s journey towards the prestigious group stages of the CAF Champions League got off to a strong start on Friday evening after securing a narrow but valuable 1-0 victory over African Stars in the first leg of the preliminary round.

The clash, staged at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, saw the Ugandan champions showcase resilience, tactical discipline, and flashes of attacking quality to gain the upper hand ahead of the decisive return leg in Kitende.

It should be noted that Namibia, home to African Stars, currently has no CAF-certified stadium. As a result, the Namibian side had to host their “home” fixture in South Africa, where the Venoms proved to be the sharper side on the night.

Vipers drew first blood in the 13th minute when defender Hillary Mukundane rose highest to head home, handing the visitors an early advantage. The goal gave the Ugandan side the platform they needed, settling nerves and tilting momentum in their favour.

The Venoms continued to create chances, with captain Milton Karisa and substitute striker Yunus Sentamu both coming close to extending the lead. However, the missed opportunities left the tie finely balanced, and the game ultimately hinged on Vipers’ ability to remain solid at the back.

Head Coach Ivan Minnaert praised his team’s effort and preparation, highlighting the significance of the result despite the slim margin.

“We were well prepared and managed the second half well. We even had chances to score. But 1-0 isn’t a big advantage and it’s all to play for next week in Kitende,” Minnaert reflected after the final whistle.

Vipers’ defensive unit, marshalled with composure and determination, stood firm to repel late pressure from African Stars. Their ability to keep a clean sheet in such a crucial away fixture could prove decisive in the aggregate contest.

The two sides will meet again next Saturday at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, where the Venoms will enjoy home advantage in front of their passionate fans. A positive result in that fixture will see the Ugandan side advance to the second preliminary round, where they will face either Power Dynamos of Zambia or ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast—two seasoned campaigners in African football.

For now, Vipers SC have their fate firmly in their own hands. With a slender advantage, a resolute defence, and a home crowd waiting to roar them on, the Venoms will be hoping to finish the job and continue their march towards the lucrative group stages of Africa’s premier club competition.