Vipers SC failed to capitalise on home advantage as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Mauritania’s FC Nouadhibou in the first leg of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League preliminary round at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Hillary Mukundane gave the Venoms a dream start, heading home from Karim Watambala’s free-kick just after the second minute.
However, the visitors responded in the 23rd minute when Sidi Ahmed Mohamed headed in off the post from a corner to level the scores.
The contest remained closely fought thereafter, with Vipers struggling to create clear-cut chances despite enjoying periods of pressure.
The introduction of Joel Sserunjogi for Joseph Marvin Youngman helped Vipers gain more control of the game, while their set-pieces continued to pose a threat.
However, FC Nouadhibou goalkeeper stood tall to keep the hosts at bay, while Farouk Miya failed to make the most of several free-kicks in promising positions.
Vipers thought they had snatched the winner late in the game when substitute Cesar Manzoki found the back of the net after coming on for Gusto Mulongo shortly after the hour mark.
The celebrations were short-lived, however, as the referee ruled that Manzoki had fouled the goalkeeper in the build-up, ruling out the goal.
The result leaves Vipers with a difficult task in the second leg, as they will need to win away from home next week to advance to the final qualification round.
The Venoms will feel they missed an opportunity to secure a crucial home advantage, but must now produce a strong performance in Mauritania to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
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