Vipers SC have confirmed the squad that will travel to Rwanda for the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup, with head coach Denis Lavagne selecting a blend of new recruits, experienced campaigners and emerging talent for the regional assignment.
The Venoms wrapped up their preparations at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, on Tuesday with their final training session before setting off for Rwanda in the early hours of Wednesday. The session marked the end of their local preparations as the team shifts its focus to the continental stage and the challenge that awaits in Rwanda.
Among the notable inclusions are several players who have recently joined the club. Gabonese goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba has been named in the squad, alongside midfield maestro Farouk Miya, Nicholas Mwere, Joel Sserunjogi and forward Cesar Manzoki, giving Lavagne additional options as he prepares his team for the tournament.
Former Mawokota Ssaza captain Amour Munongera has also been selected for the trip, earning his place in the squad as Vipers seek to build a competitive side capable of navigating a demanding regional campaign.
One of the notable absentees is defender Jacques Mangoba, who completed a move to the Venoms during the current transfer window. Despite his recent arrival at the club, Mangoba has not been included in the squad that will make the journey to Rwanda.
Vipers will get their tournament campaign underway on Friday, July 24, against Garde Republicaine. The opening fixture will provide Lavagne’s men with their first opportunity to lay down a marker as they target a strong start to the competition.
Their second Group B assignment comes on Monday, July 27, when they lock horns with Kenyan heavyweights Gor Mahia. The encounter promises to be a major test for the Venoms, who will need to be at their best against a side with considerable regional pedigree.
The group-stage campaign will come to a close on Thursday, July 30, with Vipers taking on Rwandan giants APR FC. With progression likely to depend on results across the three matches, the final group encounter could carry significant weight in determining whether the Ugandan champions advance to the next stage.
Vipers will head into the tournament hoping that the combination of experienced players and fresh faces can deliver the desired results. The Venoms will be looking to make full use of their squad depth and begin their pursuit of regional success with a strong showing in Rwanda.
Vipers SC travelling squad
Goalkeepers: Loyce Mbaba, Denis Kiggundu, Jack Komakech
Defenders: Hilary Mukundane, Kevin Dasylva, Rogers Torach, Patrick Mbowa, Ashraf Mandela, Nicholas Mwere, Derrick Ndahiro
Midfielders: Joel Sserunjongi, Amour Munongera, Marvin Youngman, Karim Watambala, Farouk Miya, Odili Chukwuma, Usama Arafat
Forwards: Cesar Manzoki, Gusto Mulongo, Yunus Sentamu, Isaac Ogwang, Beyuku Goldi, Milton Karisa, Annest Ankunda
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