Bugesera and Esperance FC square-off this afternoon in a pool B encounter on match Day 5 in the second division football league in Bugesera.

Both sides have been tipped favorites to reach the last four. Bugesera lost 1-0 to Rwamagana while Esperance FC were held to a goalless draw by struggling Akagera on match-Day 4 midweek.

The host side, Bugesera, will be seeking to avoid a second consecutive defeat and neither can they settle for a draw, according to head coach Noah Nsaziyinka.

"We shall come into the match with a killer-instinct enthusiasm after losing to Rwamagana the last time out. We can’t afford a second defeat in a row. All players are fit and psychologically prepared for the game,” Nzasiyinka said yesterday.

Elsewhere in Pool B, Interforce host Miroplast at Kicukiro stadium, Kirehe take on Golden generation in Kirehe District, Unity FC visit AS Muhanga at Muhanga stadium, Rwamagana and Sowathe square-off at Rwamagana stadium while Intare entertain Akagera in Huye.

In Pool A, last year’s semi-finalists SEC Academy will be up against Etoile de l’Est, Gasabo play Kicukiro-based ASPOR, United Stars face Heroes FC, Cox Muleyi’s Pepiniere visit Hope FC at Ndera ground, Vision FC and Nyagatare battle in Nyagatare while Vision Jeunesse play Gitikinyoni at Tam-Tam stadium.

Table leaders, La Jeunnese, who have won all four matches in pool A have a weekend off and will be back in action on Wednesday against ASPOR at Kicukiro ground.