Vipers Sports Club have secured their spot in the semi-finals of the FUFA Super 8 by advancing on the away goals rule after a tense 1-1 draw against NEC FC at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo on Tuesday.
The first leg of this quarter-final clash ended in a goalless draw at Vipers’ St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende on August 2, setting up a crucial second leg.
The Venoms struck first in the 45th minute when captain Milton Karisa capitalised on a defensive error by Ibrahim Kiyimba, giving the visitors a vital lead just before halftime.
NEC fought back in the second half, with new signing Dickson Niwamanya emerging as a key player.
Niwamanya had a golden opportunity to equalise in the 75th minute, but his close-range effort was expertly saved by Vipers goalkeeper Jack Komakech.
Komakech continued to be a barrier for NEC, making another crucial save from Cromwell Rwothomio’s attempt in the 81st minute.
The breakthrough for NEC however came in the 87th minute when Niwamanya finally found the back of the net with a beautiful header, beating Komakech who had come off his line.
The equaliser brought the aggregate score to 1-1, but with Vipers having scored an away goal, they advanced to the semifinals on the away goals rule.
Vipers will now face the winner of the quarterfinal match between SC Villa and the Select Team on Saturday, August 10.
The Venoms will be aiming to continue their pursuit of the FUFA Super 8 title, building on their hard-fought progress from this thrilling encounter.
