Vipers SC head coach, Jacky Ivan Minnaert, has announced plans to rotate his squad for Tuesday's encounter against UPDF FC at St. Mary's Stadium, Kitende. The match, scheduled for 8 PM, comes as the Venoms look to keep pace with KCCA and Villa, who have played three more games than the reigning champions.
Minnaert's decision comes after a grueling stretch that saw Vipers play three matches in seven days. Against both Express and Villa, the Belgian coach maintained a consistent starting XI, a strategy he admits may need adjustment to keep his players fresh.
"We have games coming in quick succession," Minnaert stated. "We played Express on Wednesday, then Villa, and now UPDF FC on Tuesday. It's a demanding schedule, and we need to manage it wisely."
The coach hinted at potential changes, with players like captain Milton Karisa, right-back Ashraf Mandela, Paul Mbowa, Isaac Ogwang, and Chukwuma Odili expected to feature more prominently against UPDF.
A victory for Vipers would bring them within a point of both KCCA and Villa. Meanwhile, UPDF, currently third from the bottom with six points, will be eager to secure a win to boost their survival hopes early in the season.
Key players to watch in the upcoming match include:
1. Milton Karisa, the experienced captain who has been a linchpin for Vipers.
2. Ashraf Mandela, whose defensive prowess could be crucial against UPDF's attack.
3. Paul Mbowa and Isaac Ogwang, who have been in fine form this season.
4. Chukwuma Odili, whose versatility adds depth to the Vipers squad.
5. Paul Kiwanuka, the UPDF coach who will be looking to outmaneuver Minnaert's tactical changes.
Vipers boast an impressive record against UPDF, remaining unbeaten in their last 16 Premier League meetings, with 12 wins and 4 draws. This statistic could provide a psychological edge for the champions as they look to extend their dominance.
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