Vipers SC Sacks Coach Leonard Martins Neiva Amidst Growing Performance Concerns
In a surprising move, Vipers Sports Club announced the departure of Brazilian coach Leonard Martins Neiva, just six months after he took charge of the Star Times Uganda Premier League defending champions. Neiva assumed coaching responsibilities in July 2023, succeeding Alex Isabirye Musongola.
The club revealed the decision in a brief media statement on a Sunday night, stating, “Vipers Sports Club informs its stakeholders and the general public that it has by mutual consent ended its contractual relationship with Mr. Leonard Martins Neiva (head coach) effective December 23rd, 2023.” The statement expressed gratitude for Neiva’s services and wished him the best in his career.
The club refrained from disclosing details about the interim coaching staff or Neiva’s successor. With a crucial match against Express FC on December 30th, 2023, looming, Vipers SC faces a challenge in regaining momentum.
Neiva’s departure followed the team’s 3-2 home loss to current table leaders BUL FC on Friday, marking the end of the team’s longstanding unbeaten streak in home league matches since November 27th, 2021, when they lost to URA FC. Reports suggest that frustration among the club’s upper management mounted due to Neiva’s overall performance, especially after defeats to major rivals KCCA FC and BUL FC.
The Brazilian coach presided over a disappointing CAF Champions League campaign, where Vipers SC was eliminated in the first preliminary stage by Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy, a setback that contributed to growing concerns about his tenure.
Neiva joins a list of foreign managers who have previously worked with Vipers SC, including Roberto Oliviera, Javier Martinez, Miguel Duarte Da Costa, and Beto Bianch. The club faces a critical juncture as they seek stability and success in the upcoming matches under new leadership.
