A dramatic late intervention denied Kampala Capital City Authority FC maximum points as Vipers SC battled back to claim a 1-1 draw in a tense Uganda Premier League showdown at Lugogo on Wednesday night.
KCCA looked set to secure a crucial victory after Ivan Ahimbisibwe calmly converted from the penalty spot in the first half, capping off a disciplined and physical performance by the hosts. The forward stepped up in the 35th minute after being brought down in the area, sending the home crowd into celebration.
For long spells, the Kasasiro Boys appeared in control, limiting Vipers’ attacking threat and managing the tempo of the contest with composure. Their defensive organization held firm against a Vipers side that struggled to find rhythm despite creating a handful of half-chances.
However, the match took a late twist when Vipers’ tactical changes paid off.
Substitute Glodi Beyuku Munsi emerged as the difference-maker, timing his run perfectly to latch onto a precise through ball from Abdul-Karim Watambala before unleashing a powerful finish into the top corner in the 89th minute.
The equalizer stunned the hosts, who had done much of the hard work to protect their slender lead, only to see it slip away in the closing moments.
Earlier, both sides had carved out opportunities in an evenly contested opening half. KCCA showed early intent through Ashraf Mugume’s set-piece delivery, while Vipers thought they had taken the lead only for Enock Ssebagala’s effort to be ruled out for offside.
The visitors were also forced into an early reshuffle after Enock Luyima limped off injured, but they gradually grew into the game despite KCCA’s attacking bursts led by Sammy Ssebadduka.
The result keeps Vipers firmly at the top of the standings with 59 points from 26 matches, extending their cushion as the title race tightens. KCCA, now on 52 points, will feel this was a missed opportunity to close the gap.
Attention now shifts to the chasing pack, with SC Villa and Kitara set to clash in a fixture on Thursday in Butema, Hoima that could further shape the title run-in
