In Week 24 of the 2024-25 Rwanda Premier League, Etincelles and Kiyovu grabbed attention as they secured notable outcomes; Etincelles drew with APR in Kigali, while Kiyovu triumphed over Mukura VS in Huye.
Overall, a total of 21 goals were scored throughout various league centers nationwide, with Police FC, Rayon Sports, and Kiyovu Sports being the sole teams to secure victories when playing as visitors.
Once more, APR struggled to shine even after netting two goals in the first half, as they let Etincelles recover and secure a draw, damaging their chances of claiming the championship.
Times Sport
examines five key points from match day 25.
Novic finds himself vulnerable due to Seningga’s strategies.
It was a brilliant tactical move by Innocent Seninga, as the Etincelles coach left Darko Novic utterly perplexed with his ability to read the game.
Following their 2-0 deficit at halftime, Seninga stated post-match that he instructed his team to execute swift transitions. This strategic shift allowed Étincelles to gain control of the match.
Unfortunately, Novic, who is possibly the more seasoned player, decided to make unneeded alterations, notably substituting Victor Mbaoma for Djibril Ouatarra, the star who scored twice. This adjustment provided the opposing team with an opportunity to advance without facing much opposition.
The title is yet to be decided.
The 2-0 stalemate between APR and Etincelles, along with Rayon Sports’ 2-0 win over Muhazi United, affected the standings, causing both teams to swap places. APR managed to hold onto the first position with 50 points, now leading their competitors by just one point in the race for the title.
As the season winds down with just 6 matches remaining, it has become a wide-open competition where both teams still have a chance to claim the championship.
Kiyovu’s sigh of relief
Kiyovu Sports achieved an unexpected victory by beating Mukura Victory Sports 1-0 right before the final whistle at Huye Stadium. It’s a venue where prominent clubs like APR, Rayon, and Police have also faced defeat this season.
The victory was particularly sweet for the Green Baggies as it elevated them to 13th position with 27 points. This marks their first time this season outside the relegation zone.
Should Kiyovu Sports sustain their recently discovered form for the remaining six games, it is clear that they have the potential to remain in the upper division.
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Rayon regain their position at the top following their win against Muhazi United
Mousa Gatera’s Rutsiro FC remain every team’s threat
Down 2-0 against Bugesera FC, Rutsiro FC mounted a remarkable comeback by scoring four consecutive goals to secure a 4-2 victory at Umuganda Stadium.
The team that was recently promoted has become the unexpected standout of the season thanks to their attractive play style under experienced coach Mousa Gatera.
Last June, Rutsiro did not bring in any significant new signings. Most of the players from the squad that was relegated during the 2023/24 season remained with the team, including forward Jeremie Mumbele.
They have added former Mukura Victory SC leader Alexis Ngirimana and Sunrise FC captain Leon Uwambajimama to bolster their squad significantly.
Rayon regained confidence under interim manager Rwaka
Observing their performance in Saturday’s 2-0 victory against Muhazi United at Ngoma Stadium, it was clear that the confidence Rayon Sports had been missing during the second round seems to be returning.
Muhazi United may not be a formidable opponent to cause problems for Rayon Sports on any day, but the win was very vital for caretaker coach Claude Rwaka who took over the team since head coach Robertinho Oliveira was suspended from his duties last week.
Rayon’s results have been inconsistent in the second round until they lost the top spot after a 2-2 draw with Marines FC. But, when Rwaka took over, the team has got their confidence back.
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