Defender Habumuremyi sent the ball in his own net as AS Muhanga suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of in-form Vision FC in a crucial Second Division league match day 19 clash held at Mumena Stadium on Saturday.
The loss put Abdul Mbarushimana’s side’s hopes for a topflight promotion in jeopardy after losing the second place to Group B rivals Espoir FC who were awarded a 3-0 win after SORWATHE forfeited their game for failure to show up at Rusizi Stadium.
Only two teams from the group stage regular season will qualify for the semifinals playoffs.
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The game was predominantly fought in the midfield, with limited opportunities at both ends.
Home team Vision FC were dominating ball possession, but they struggled to convert chances into goals AS Muhanga’s defense proved to ko tough to penetrate.
Vision&039;s Ibrahim Nshimiyamana came close to breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute, but AS Muhanga’s goalkeeper denied him with a crucial save.
Despite creating several connections in midfield and earning free kicks near the box, the first half ended goalless.
Coach Fils Muvunyi introduced Radjab Mbanjineza early in the second half. The winger made an immediate impact as he expertly sent a dangerous cross which under-pressure Habumuremyi inadvertently let in his own net to give the home side a lead in the 46th minute.
Both teams made strategic changes in an attempt to alter the scoreline, but Vision FC held on to win take home all three points.
Following the loss, Abdul Mbarushimana's side dropped to third place with 42 points while Espoir, who have one game in hand, climbed to second with 45 points.
Vision FC stay at the top of Group B table with 49 points.