However, it was later revealed that Mbabazi had failed to make the game through illness.
Vastly experienced tactician Charles Livingstone Mbabazi was absent from the touchline as Vipers SC comfortably beat Iganga Young FC 3-0 in the Round of 16 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
Strikes from Karim Watambala, Mohammed Salem Ekbad and Fazil Tumwine at the St Mary's Stadium, Kitende, on Wednesday sunk Iganga in the absence of Mbabazi.
His non-appearance raised concerned voices from the Kitende crowd, as there had not been a communication from the club before the game.
However, it was later revealed that Mbabazi had failed to make the game through illness.
17:29 - 06.03.2024
Stanbic Uganda Cup: Watambala shines as Vipers sail into the quarterfinals
He scored from the spot in the first half, where he also hit the post, and created multiple scoring opportunities.
"Down with malaria," Vipers responded and cleared to a concerned fan under their official X handle.
Mbabazi joined Vipers in January on a two-year contract and has been in charge of seven domestic games.
09:10 - 06.03.2024
Reports: Kenyan giants enter race to lure Muhammad Shaban from KCCA
Meanwhile, sources close to the player asserted that Shaban's priority is to renew with the 13-time Uganda Premier League champions.
He has yet to witness defeat and has won five games and two stalemates, both of which have come in the last two Uganda Premier League matches.
08:58 - 06.03.2024
Reports Onyango’s time with Mamelodi Sundowns is up
The former SC Villa player has won 16 trophies for Mamelodi Sundowns, seven Premier Soccer League titles, three Nedbank Cups, two Telkom Knockouts, one CAF Champions League, African Football League, CAF Super Cup, and MTN8 apiece.
Meanwhile, Vipers have joined KCCA FC, BUL FC, Kitara, NEC, Pajule Lions FC and Police FC in the quarterfinals of the Uganda Cup.