Peace Cup 2019: SC Kiyovu keen on strong start against Mukura
Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Head coach Alain Kirasa looks to steer SC Kiyovu to their first major silverware since the 1993 league title. The Mumena-based outfit lost Peace Cup finals three years in a row between 1995 and 1997. Courtesy.

Wednesday

Mukura                   Vs     Kiyovu             15:00   

Etoile de l’Est         Vs     Police               15:00

Gicumbi                   Vs     Espoir              15:00

Intare                       Vs     Bugesera        15:00

SC Kiyovu will be keen on getting a good result when they face holders Mukura Victory Sports in the last-16 of the 2019 Peace Cup tournament on Wednesday.

The Green Baggies travel to Huye Stadium looking to upset Mukura at home before hosting them – at Mumena Stadium, on Saturday – in the decisive clash for a spot in quarter-finals.

Speaking to Times Sport on Tuesday, head coach Alain Kirasa challenged his Kiyovu players to ‘at least get a draw’ in the first-leg as away advantage so they finish off the job at home.

"We are ready, and we will fight with all we have to win the game. But if we fail to; the least we are settling for is a draw,” said the former Burundi international.

"Mukura have always proved to be tough opponents, but the morale and determination (from my players) to accomplish the mission is there. And, that’s a good starting point.”

The Mumena-based side are on hunt for their first Peace Cup silverware having lost three consecutive (1995, 1996 and 1997) finals, and a first major title since the 1993 league title.

On the other hand, Mukura coach Francis Haringingo has also vowed: "The home leg is a must-win. We have prepared well, and the morale in the camp is high.”

"Our target is to retain the title.”

In other matches on Wednesday, second tier outfit Etoile de l’Est host Police, Espoir take on Gicumbi, while Intare will be up against Bugesera.

Mukura won the 2018 Peace Cup title after beating Rayon Sports 3-1 in penalty shootouts, following a goalless draw in regular time and 30 minutes of extra-time, last August.

The recently crowned 2018/2019 league champions, Rayon, delight Marines FC on Thursday.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com