Friday
AS Kigali 1-1 APR
MICHEL Rusheshangoga came off the bench to score a sensational free-kick in injury time as he salvaged a point for AS Kigali in a thrilling 1-1 draw against his former club, APR, on Friday.
The two sides were tussling it out in the opening match of the 2019/2020 Rwanda Premier League season at Kigali Stadium.
The former APR right-back had begun on the bench but he was brought in just one minute into the game for injured Janvier Benedata.
APR could have scored at least twice in the first-half in a lackluster showing against the Peace Cup holders, but Eric ‘Bakame’ Ndayishimiye was brilliant in the goal to keep the score 0-0 at the break.
Earlier on, the former APR stopper saved striker Ernest Sugira’s penalty after defender Emmanuel Imanishimwe was brought down in the area, before Rusheshangoga cleared the ball off the goal-line in the 40th minute.
Amavubi skipper Haruna Niyonzima also had a chance to put AS Kigali ahead in the 35th minute but his effort was blocked by Olivier ‘Sefu’ Niyonzima.
Overall, APR bossed the possession and had several clear chances to break the deadlock, but lacked finishing prowess. However, their efforts were finally rewarded in the 73rd minute courtesy of Dany Usengimana’s goal from a close range off a fine assist from Yves Mugunga.
Despite failing to impose their game, AS Kigali kept it tight and their late pressing would bear fruit in the 90th minute after Latif Bishira was challenged by APR skipper Thierry Manzi just outside the box, which resulted into the magical free-kick.
Meanwhile, APR centre-back Ange Mutsinzi was rushed to hospital with a head injury after colliding with teammate Sugira, and he was replaced by Prince Buregeya – who also was carried off the pitch after hurting his ankle in the second half.
The league action continues Saturday with four games on the card. The reigning champions Rayon Sports face newcomers Gasogi United, Bugesera entertain Heroes, Etincelles take on SC Kiyovu while Mukura will be up against Espoir.
editor@newtimesrwanda.com