THE Minister of Sports and Culture, Joseph Habineza has re-assured Rwandans that Amavubi Stars are still within reach of a slot at next year’s 2010 Africa Nations Cup in Luanda, Angola.

During his remarks while receiving the 2009 Cecafa/Kagame Cup winners Atraco, the minister insisted that it’s still early to rule out Rwanda.

"Atraco’s victory shows that Amavubi should not give up despite their poor start in their qualification campaign,” he said.

"Atraco started in the same fashion but shocked everyone when they went on to win the tournament.”

"I’m assuring you all (Rwandans) that Amavubi will qualify for CAN,” he continued.

This is the second time Habineza has openly sworn in front of the local crowd. Last year, he was spot on when he swore that Rwanda would bring down Morocco in Kigali during the second qualifying campaign of the 2010 World/ Africa Nations Cup. Indeed, Amavubi went on to sting the Moroccans 3-1 at Nyamirambo stadium.

Despite Habineza’s remarks, there is no doubt that Amavubi have a steep mountain to climb. The team currently rooted at the foot of Group C after managing a point from a possible nine needs to her remaining fixtures to stand a chance of making a second appearance at CAN.

Rwanda has two home games against Egypt and Zambia and an away game against Group leaders Algeria.

Algeria top the group on seven points, while Zambia and Egypt are level on four marks but separated by goal difference.

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