Tomorrow, at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira, an exciting showdown awaits as Vipers SC and Police FC gear up for the Stanbic Uganda Cup final.
With the potential for Alex Isabirye to secure his second consecutive Uganda Cup title, the stage is set for a thrilling match.
Vipers SC, the reigning champions of Uganda’s top-flight league, are coming into this game on the back of a successful campaign.
Having lifted the league trophy just a week ago, they are high on confidence and will be looking to add another piece of silverware to their collection.
With two previous Uganda Cup triumphs under their belt, Vipers SC will be eager to replicate their success from 2016 when they emerged victorious against Onduparaka.
On the other hand, Police FC, who finished fourth in the FUFA Big League (Uganda’s second division), have defied the odds to reach the final.
It has been 20 years since their last appearance in the ultimate showdown, and they are determined to make this opportunity count.
Despite being in a lower division, Police FC has shown resilience and resilience, eliminating formidable opponents on their path to the final.
In their last meeting (SUPL 2021/22), Vipers SC displayed a dominant performance against Police FC, securing an impressive 5-0 victory.
The goal scorers in that game included Milton Karisa, who found the net twice, as well as Bobosi Byaruhanga, who also scored twice, including a remarkable goal where he skillfully maneuvered past goalkeeper Tom Ikara and the defenders.
Yunus Sentamu added to the tally with the fifth goal and later finished the season as fourth on the top scorer’s table.
Both teams have undergone changes since then, and Police FC will be motivated to seek revenge for their previous defeat.
Vipers SC’s leading goal-scorer of the 2022/23 season, Milton Karisa, who netted nine league goals will be a center of attention in this match.
With the support of fellow scorers Karim Ndugwa and Yunus Sentamu in the forward line, Vipers SC boasts an impressive and powerful attacking unit.
Ndugwa’s capabilities as a striker will be thoroughly examined as he seeks to replicate his exceptional performance from the previous season’s Stanbic Uganda final, where he played a vital role in BUL’s victory over Vipers.
He scored two goals, while Simon Peter Oketch secured the third goal for the team, which was then under the guidance of coach Alex Isabirye.
Police FC’s coach, Angelo Lonyesi, has expressed confidence in his team and their ability to rise to the occasion.
Despite being in a lower division, he believes the competitive nature of the Big League has prepared his players well for this challenge.
Conversely, Alex Isabirye Musongola, Vipers’ coach, acknowledges the threat that Police FC poses and has ensured his team is adequately prepared for the encounter.
The road to the final has been arduous for both teams. Vipers SC overcame Bujumbura United FC, Jinja North United FC, Wakiso Giants FC, Calvary FC, and Soltilo Bright Stars FC.
On the other hand Police FC eliminated Apuutun FC, Pajule Lions FC, Ndejje University FC, BUL FC, and Adjumani TC FC.
Both sides have showcased their mettle by navigating through a series of challenging matches to reach this stage.
Vipers SC, with their recent league success, will be aiming for a double triumph under the guidance of coach Alex Isabirye Musongola.
However, Police FC, led by Angelo Lonyesi, will look to cause an upset and etch their names in Ugandan football history.
Only time will tell which team will lift the coveted trophy, but one thing is for certain – this final is set to be a captivating encounter.
