Farouk Miya could hardly have scripted a better return to Vipers SC. The experienced Uganda Cranes forward produced a masterclass on his first competitive appearance since rejoining the Venoms, scoring twice to inspire the Ugandan champions to a commanding 3-0 victory over Djibouti’s Garde Republicaine in their opening Group A match of the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup in Rwanda.
With expectations surrounding his homecoming running high, Miya lived up to the billing from the opening whistle. The forward’s quality, composure and leadership were evident throughout the contest as he spearheaded Vipers’ attack with confidence, providing the cutting edge that helped Denis Lavagne’s side begin their regional campaign in emphatic fashion.
The breakthrough arrived in the 15th minute, and it was fitting that Miya provided the moment of magic. The former Standard Liège star curled a magnificent free-kick beyond the helpless goalkeeper, sending the Vipers faithful into celebration and instantly announcing his return in spectacular fashion. It was a goal that not only underlined his exceptional technique but also served as the perfect statement of intent for both the player and his club.
Vipers continued to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the match, pinning their opponents deep inside their own half. Their persistence paid off again in the 38th minute when Miya completed his brace, calmly finishing from close range after a well-crafted attacking move. The second goal capped an outstanding individual performance and put the Venoms firmly in control before the halftime interval.
There was still time for another before the break as Karim Watambala added further gloss to an excellent first-half display. The midfielder clinically finished after being brilliantly picked out by Nigerian forward Odili Chukwuma, extending Vipers’ advantage to 3-0 and effectively putting the contest beyond the reach of the Djiboutian side before the referee signalled for halftime.
The second half was a more controlled affair as Vipers focused on protecting their comfortable advantage while continuing to dominate proceedings. Although neither side managed to find the back of the net after the restart, the Venoms displayed maturity, discipline and defensive solidity to comfortably see out the match and secure all three points without unnecessary pressure.
The victory gives Denis Lavagne’s men the ideal start in Group A and strengthens their belief as they chase a historic first CECAFA Kagame Cup crown. Having established themselves as one of Uganda’s most successful clubs domestically, Vipers are now determined to translate that dominance onto the regional stage by ending their long wait for the prestigious East and Central African title.
Despite winning eight Uganda Premier League championships and several domestic honours, the Venoms have never lifted the CECAFA Kagame Cup. Success in Rwanda would see them become only the fifth Ugandan club to win the regional competition, adding another significant milestone to the club’s growing list of achievements.
Ugandan clubs have traditionally enjoyed success in the tournament, with SC Villa leading the way as three-time champions. KCCA FC have captured the title twice, while Express FC and Police FC have each won it once, leaving Vipers with the opportunity to join an exclusive list of Ugandan clubs that have conquered East and Central African football.
Attention now turns to what promises to be two decisive Group A encounters against hosts APR of Rwanda and Kenyan giants Gor Mahia. Both clubs possess vast continental experience and will present sterner examinations for the Venoms as they seek to finish top of the group and secure the only available semifinal berth.
APR and Gor Mahia were scheduled to meet later on the opening day, a result that Vipers will watch with keen interest. With only the group winners guaranteed passage to the semifinals, every point and every goal could prove decisive as the battle for qualification intensifies in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
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