FIBA U-18: Rwanda face tough test against Algeria

Rwanda must win against Algeria today to book a ticket to the last eight in the FIBA U-18 Africa Championships taking place at Amahoro indoor stadium.

Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Rwanda's Osborn Shema in action against Gabon during 2016 FIBA Africa U-18 Championship Group A game played last week at Amahoro indoor stadium in Kigali. / Faustin Niyigena.

TodayMali vs Gabon 11:15 amUganda vs Tunisia 13:15pmDR Congo vs Benin 15:45pmRwanda vs Algeria 18:00pmEgypt vs Angola 20:15pm

Rwanda must win against Algeria today to book a  ticket to the last eight in the FIBA U-18 Africa Championships taking place at Amahoro indoor stadium.

Coach Moise Mutokambali’s side will face a tough test against a motivated Algerian side in their fourth and last Group B game at 6:00pm.

Mali handed Rwanda their first loss 61-40 following a remarkable defensive display to frustrate the home side on Sunday, a scenario that Rwanda doesn’t want to happen again.  

"Today’s game is a must win if we’re to get to quarter finals, a win gives us  a better chance to qualify to the quarters. As hosts, it will be frustrating if we fail to do so,” Mutokambali said

He added, "Algeria is a very strong team, there is no doubt about that, but we are going into this game with the aim of winning. It is not easy, but I have told the boys, they must work together as a team.”

Mutokambali will rely on his point guard Jean Jacques Nshobozwabyosenumukiza who has averaged 15.3 points, 1 rebound and 2.7 assists in the last three games.

Just like the coach, team captain Arnaud Nkusi said that even though they lost to Mali, they put up a good fight and in fact it gave them more determination and confidence to go forward.

"We want to make it to the last eight and this is one chance that we ought not to miss. Algeria is a strong side with experience, but we are home and that gives us an added advantage,” Nkusi added

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