EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE TIPS & PREDICTIONS 1st, 2nd & 3rd SEPTEMBER

Vipers SC has officially announced Belgian Ivan Jacky Minnaert as its new head coach. This is a big step for the club in its goal to stay on top of Ugandan football. Minnaert, who was hired on July 18, 2025, has a lot of experience around the world and a UEFA Pro License. Already known for guiding Fassell FC to the Liberian Premier League title last season, he now joins a Vipers squad fresh off a domestic double-and poised for greater challenges.

Why Vipers Chose a Foreign Coach

Since it foundation in 1969 as Bunamwaya FC, Vipers has turned into a big name in Ugandan football. The club has won many league titles, the last one in 2024/25, and has always been in big games across the continent.

But Presidency isn’t fully satisfied with domestic success. Owner Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa-a former FUFA president, teacher, and the mastermind behind St. Mary’s Stadium-has long dreamed of elevating the club to continental status. His backing of infrastructure and leadership underscores a push for professional growth.

Bringing in Minnaert signals a shift: local double-winning assistants, John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza, stay on in supporting roles. Meanwhile, Vipers taps international knowledge and tactical DNA to sharpen its edge.

Coach Profile: Ivan Jacky Minnaert

At 58, Minnaert has a well-traveled coaching résumé-with roots in Europe and branches across Africa.

UEFA Pro Credentials and Spanish Foundations

Minnaert earned his UEFA Pro License in 2012 through the Spanish FA-the highest coaching qualification in the sport. His early work includes youth and lower‑league roles in Spain, such as CD San Roque and Unión Estepona CF.

From Libya to Liberia: A Travel Tale

• Libya (Al Ittihad Tripoli): Took them to win their league in the 2020/21 season.
• Liberia (Fassell FC): Led them to win the 2024/25 title, 11 points ahead of the next best team.
• He has also worked at clubs in places such as Mali (Djoliba AC), Rwanda (Rayon Sports, Mukura Victory FC), Kenya (AFC Leopards), Guinea (AS Kaloum Star), and South Africa (Black Leopards FC).

A Track Record of Adaptability

Working in diverse contexts-from CAF Champions League matches to local league strife-Minnaert has built a flexible managerial style. He can change tactics, deal with pressure, and bring different groups together. This makes him a special pick for Vipers.

Expectations and Roles

Working with Luyinda and Muhumuza

Minnaert joins a team where Luyinda and Muhumuza did well as joint coaches, winning two big competitions in the 2024/25 time. Now, he inherits their setup-not to replace them, but to augment it as the modernizing force.

Goals for the Season

• Retain the Uganda Premier League and Uganda Cup titles.
• Push deeper into the 2025/26 CAF Champions League.

Minnaert expressed his commitment: “I am very happy to join Vipers Sports Club, and we shall work hard as a team to make sure we achieve the targets locally and at the international stage.”.

Tactics and Style: What to Look For

Minnaert has not set a firm style of play, but his past does hint at some clear trends:

• First is discipline: His teams tend to be very tight, mostly in defense.
• Knows the game: With lots of time in CAF group stages, he gets the tough parts of playing worldwide games.
• Adaptation: His work in many leagues shows he can switch up tactics to fit who they play and the skills of his players.

Fans can look for hard training, better game set-up, and clear game-time changes. This could bring smarter team moves, more player changes, or new ways based on the other team.

Impact on Club Identity and Infrastructure

Professional Growth

Getting a UEFA coach means higher aims. For young ones in the academy, it shows a way rooted in clear plans and world-level ways. Reducing errors and improving fitness may follow.

Long-Term Vision

Minnaert’s contract is reportedly long-term-possibly two years-underlining Vipers’ belief in a stable leadership model. It’s a step toward building a legacy-not one‑off success.

Infrastructure Synergy

Vipers’ home, St. Mary’s Stadium, boasts CAF‑approved artificial turf and modern facilities, thanks to Mulindwa’s investment. Minnaert now has the physical tools needed to train strong teams.

Prospects for Ugandan Football

Minnaert’s arrival isn’t just big news for Vipers-it matters for Ugandan football too.

• Raising the bar: A coach with top world skill can inspire others and set new league highs
• Enhanced visibility: Doing well in CAF games with his lead could bring in scouts or show off player skill in East Africa.
• Mentoring local coaches: By working with Luyinda and Muhumuza, Minnaert can share know-how that makes our local coaches better.

It spreads from one club to the whole football world.

Season Outlook and What to Watch

Early Indicators

• Start of the season: Team form, first games, and how they do in warm-up matches will show how fast Minnaert fits in.
• Adaptation by players: Look for game plan tweaks-press setups, role shifts in midfield or up front, and speed of play.

Milestones

• First league match under Minnaert: Shows what he plans to do.
• Cup run early rounds: Offers a window into rotation and squad depth.
• CAF Champions League group stage: A true test for his continental readiness.

Fans should track how Luyinda and Muhumuza support his vision, and whether there’s seamless integration or initial friction.

Final Thoughts

Vipers SC’s hire of Ivan Jacky Minnaert as their new coach is both strategic and ambitious. Holding the UEFA Pro License and having coached all over Africa, Minnaert is set up well by Mulindwa to take the Venoms from top in their home games to big names in bigger games.

If they find the best blend of push, tactics, and help, Vipers might make a new mark for teams in Uganda and more. It’s a thrilling time-let’s watch how far Minnaert and his team can push the Venoms.