Vipers booked their place in the semifinals of the 2025 Stanbic Uganda Cup after a dramatic 1-0 victory over arch-rivals SC Villa at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
The clash, played under the floodlights on Easter Monday, saw skipper Milton Karisa rise to the occasion, netting an 88th-minute winner just as extra time seemed inevitable.
Karisa capitalized on a spilled shot from Abdul-Karim Watambala, pouncing on the loose ball to nod it past Villa’s goalkeeper Jean Braddy Wokorach.
It was a moment of instinct and composure that sent the home crowd into raptures, leaving the stunned visitors with no time to respond.
For much of the match, both teams displayed caution and resilience, with chances at a premium.
But the decisive moment came late, ensuring Vipers secured their place in the last four alongside defending champions Kitara and Uganda Cup heavyweights KCCA.
Kitara edged BUL 1-0, while KCCA defeated Kaaro Karungi 2-1.
The final semifinal slot will be determined today, as Police take on FUFA Big League side Kataka.
With the semifinals set to be played on a home-and-away basis, the stage is set for more thrilling action in Uganda’s premier cup competition.
