Second Division leaders Group B leaders Vision FC welcome second-placed AS Muhanga to Mumena Stadium in Saturday’s match day 19 clash.
READ ALSO: AS Muhanga beat Vision FC in match replay
Vision FC will be seeking revenge against the Muhanga-based side that thrashed them 4-2 in the first round match which was played in two days.
The match, initially took place on December 16, but match officials decided to suspend it after 67 minutes of action due to electricity blackout, forcing the pair to play the remaining 27 minutes the following day.
With only six games remaining in the regular season, the match between the two teams holds a significant importance for AS Muhanga who needs three the points at all costs to open a three-point gap between them and third –placed Espoir FC.
Unlike last season, only the top two teams from groups A and B will advance to the semifinals playoffs from which two winners will be promoted to the Primus National League next season.
AS Muhanga coach Abdou Mbarushimana told Times Sport that his men are ready to leave it all on the Mumena turf for them to increase the chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
"We are ready for the challenge. It promises to be an exciting yet tough match, especially considering the stage of the season we have reached so far,” he said.
"Our team is primed for the occasion. Despite the challenging circumstances during the first leg at home, we secured a victory. We are eager to build on that.... this would be a crucial win for us.”
AS Muhanga are playing a Vision FC side which has been unstoppable this season as the lead the charge in Group B with 46 points, four points at the top.
Club coach Fils Muvunyi insists the goal remains to maintain their lead and sees defeating AS Muhanga as a clear step towards the playoffs.
"Our objectives are clear – securing the top spot in this competitive group. We acknowledge Muhanga’s strengths under their experienced coach, but we are confident in our abilities, especially playing on our home turf,” Muvunyi said.
"While we have been scoring consistently, we need to tighten our defence, especially in crucial matches like this. Attention to every detail of the game will be key for us to achieve success,” he added.
Meanwhile, Espoir FC will welcome SORWATHE FC on Saturday at Rusizi Stadium.
It’s a must-won match for Espoir who are looking to capitalize on any slip that AS Muhanga could face in Mumena Stadium.
Group B Table as it stands
- Vision FC 46
- As Muhanga 42
- Espoir 42 (-1)
Second Division leaders Vision FC welcome second-placed AS Muhanga to Mumena Stadium in Saturday’s match day 19 clash. All photos bty Craish Bahizi