CAF Champions League; Vipers defeated in Botswana
August 21, 2023
Uganda Premier League Champions, Vipers SC were handed a 2-0 defeat by Botswana’s Champions Jwaneng Galaxy in the first leg of the Preliminary round.
Vipers SC head coach Leonard Martins played out a defensive game but didn’t stop the attacking Jwaneng Galaxy to score.
In the 16th minute, Thabang Vincent inspired his side Jwaneng Galaxy to an opener.
Yunus Sentamu could have equalized for the Venoms moments later. But his shoot well set by captain Milton Karisa was not worthy his name.
Vipers’ Custodian Alfred Mudekereza denied the hosts the second goal in the 30th minute. This was when he saved Sechele Moagi’s near post free kick.
Vipers Brazilian forward Giancarlo Rodriguez almost equalized in the 40th minute but his free-kick went inches wide.
The Ugandans returned in second half more demanding and almost equalised in the 57th minute but Yunus failed to register his attempt on target.
Six minutes later, Alfred Mudekereza stood firm again when be saved double courtesy of Carlos Fredericks and Moagi’s attempts.
Moments later, Vipers attempted to equalise through Bright Anukani long range effort but Mohamed Salem Ekbad instead rebounded wide.
Vipers were later purnished by Thabang Vincent in the 72nd minute who was on the day completing his brace.
The results mean, Vipers will need to work tooth in nail to overturn the results.
They will need three goals and above for them to secure a place in the 2nd Preliminary round.
There return leg will be staged on Saturday 26th, August at At Mary’s Kitende.
The aggregate winner between Vipers SC and Jwaneng Galaxy will have to face either South Africa’s Orlando Pirates or Comoros’ Djabal FC.