Vipers SC Returns to Action Against URA FC in UPL Second Round Opener
The second round is so tricky and demands total commitment, with teams fighting for survival, bragging rights, and good positions. Every game is a final, and we expect tougher moments, but the lads know what’s at stake.”
Fixture: Vipers SC vs. URA FC
Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
Following an extended break after the conclusion of the first round of the 2024/25 StarTimes Uganda Premier League (UPL) season, Vipers SC is set to return to action on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, against URA FC at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
The encounter will mark the beginning of the second round of the campaign, where the Venoms are determined to extend their winning momentum as they push for the UPL title. Vipers ended the first round with three consecutive victories, and a win against URA would strengthen their grip at the top of the table.
Speaking about the long break and facing his former club, Vipers’ head coach Fred Muhumuza acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating: “No strings attached; it’s the nature of our job.The first game will be tricky, but the boys will pick themselves up. It’s Vipers SC—every game matters.
The second round is so tricky and demands total commitment, with teams fighting for survival, bragging rights, and good positions. Every game is a final, and we expect tougher moments, but the lads know what’s at stake.”
Current Standings: Vipers on Top, URA in the Mix
Vipers SC enters the second round at the summit of the 16-team UPL table with 34 points, one point ahead of NEC FC after 15 games.
Meanwhile, URA FC, led by former Vipers tactician Alex Isabirye, sits in fifth place with 24 points, trailing the table leaders by 10 points.
Vipers ended the first round in style, securing dominant wins over Mbale Heroes (4-0), UPDF FC (1-0), and Maroons FC (1-0). On the other hand, URA FC concluded the first round with a narrow 1-0 win over Police FC.
Head-to-Head Record: Vipers Dominating Recent Meetings
The last meeting between the two sides in the first round saw Vipers SC claim a comfortable 2-0 victory over URA FC, courtesy of goals from Allan Okello and captain Milton Karisa.
In their most recent Kitende clash last season, Vipers once again defeated URA FC 2-0, with goals from Eric Kenzo Kambale and winger Abdu Lumala.
Last Five Meetings: URA FC 0-2 Vipers SC
URA FC 0-2 Vipers SC
Vipers SC 2-0 URA FC
Vipers SC 1-1 URA FC
URA FC 0-1 Vipers SC
Despite Vipers’ recent dominance, the overall head-to-head record from 40 meetings favors URA FC slightly:
Vipers wins: 11
Draws: 13
URA wins:16
Vipers SC Goals Scored:40 , Goals Conceded: 40
Total Points Earned: 46
Team News: Vipers SC Boosts & Injuries
Captain Milton Karisa has returned to training as he recovers from a partial quadriceps femoris muscle tear. The skipper has been out since the win against Maroons FC but is nearing a return, having resumed gym and running sessions. Yunus Sentamu is available again after missing the last game due to suspension (accumulation of three yellow cards).
New signing Isaac Ogwang is set for his debut after being included in the 23-man squad.
Suspensions
Marvin Joseph Youngman will not feature as he serves a one-match suspension from his time at Soltilo Bright Stars FC, where he was sent off against Express FC.
Left-back Derrick Ndahiro will also be unavailable as he serves the second of his two-match suspension after being sent off against UPDF FC.
Match Outlook & Key Players to Watch Vipers SC:
Allan Okello – The playmaker has been instrumental in Vipers’ attacking play and scored in the first-round meeting against URA.
Milton Karisa – If passed fit, the captain will provide leadership and goal-scoring threat.
Yunus Sentamu – The returning forward will be key in breaking down URA’s defense.
URA FC:
Derrick Nsibambi – The striker has been crucial for URA and will be relied upon to breach Vipers’ defense.
Saidi Kyeyune – A midfield general with the ability to control the tempo of the game.
James Begisa – A strong defensive presence, looking to keep Vipers’ attack at bay.
What’s at Stake?
For Vipers SC, a victory would ensure they remain at the top of the table and maintain their momentum in the title race.
For URA FC, a win would boost their top-four ambitions and possibly revive their hopes of challenging for the championship.
With both teams hungry for success and a history of intense encounters, Tuesday’s match at St. Mary’s Stadium promises to be a thrilling contest as the second round of the 2024/25 UPL campaign gets underway.
Will Vipers extend their dominance, or will URA pull off a surprise result? Football fans will be eagerly watching as the battle unfolds in Kitende!
Kusolo 's Prediction: Vipers SC 2-1 URA FC
