Vipers SC kicked off their 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a commanding 3-0 victory over Djibouti’s Garde Republicaine FC in the Group A opener at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday.
Former Uganda Cranes midfielder Farouk Miya marked his return to the Venoms with a brilliant brace, while reigning Uganda Premier League MVP Abdu Karim Watambala added a third as Vipers wrapped up the contest before halftime.
Miya, who rejoined the club earlier this week, opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a well-struck free-kick before doubling Vipers’ advantage in the 38th minute.
Watambala then made it 3-0 in first-half stoppage time with a close-range finish after Garde Republicaine failed to deal with a Vipers attack.
The Djiboutian side attempted to respond but found it difficult to breach a disciplined Vipers defence marshalled by Kevin Dasylva Bady and Nicholas Mwere.
After the break, Garde Republicaine showed more urgency and created several chances, but Denis Jean Lavagne’s side comfortably protected their three-goal advantage to secure all three points.
Vipers head coach Denis Jean Lavagne praised his team’s performance after the match.
“It is good to start the tournament with a win. Now we focus on the next match against Gor Mahia,” said the French tactician.
Vipers now turn their attention to a crucial Group A clash against Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, while hosts APR FC were scheduled to face the Kenyan side later on Friday in the other group fixture.
Post a comment