Ugandan champions Vipers SC are gearing up for a crucial CAF Champions League encounter against Zambia’s Power Dynamos, aiming to overturn a 2–1 first-leg deficit when the two sides meet at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Friday. With a place in the group stages at stake, the Venoms know that only a composed, disciplined performance will keep their continental ambitions alive.
The first leg in Kitende ended in disappointment for the Ugandans after Yunus Sentamu’s opener was cancelled out by Moses Shuma, before a Derrick Ndahiro own goal handed Power Dynamos a slim advantage. Now, the Venoms must win by at least two clear goals to progress to the group stage for only the second time in their history.
Vipers captain Milton Karisa believes belief and unity will be crucial as his side seeks redemption. “I feel like we didn’t show our best selves for 90 minutes in the first leg and it kinda cost us,” Karisa said. “If we have no belief for Power Dynamos, we have no chance. We have to believe in ourselves going into the second leg. Let’s do it together, Venoms.” His words reflect the renewed determination within the team, which arrived in Zambia on Tuesday focused on the task ahead.
Head coach Ivan Jacky Minnaert remains optimistic despite the first-leg loss, urging his players to combine tactical discipline with mental toughness. “The positives from the first leg are that we still have 90 minutes to play,” he said. “Power Dynamos showed hunger, but we have the ability and the quality — now we must prove it. We know what to expect. It will be tough, but focus, determination, and belief will be very important.” The Belgian tactician, who took charge earlier this season, is confident that the lessons learned from the home defeat will inspire a stronger performance in Ndola.
Vipers will be without defender Kevin Dasylva Bady, who is suspended after accumulating yellow cards, meaning Hillary ‘Bihogo’ Mukundane or Enock Luyima could step into the backline. In attack, Allan Okello and Yunus Sentamu are expected to spearhead the Venoms’ frontline, supported by Karim Watambala and Taddeo Lwanga in midfield as the Ugandan champions chase a comeback that could define their season.
