Amavubi regroup

Fifa/CAN QualifierNovember 14Rwanda v Zambia AMAVUBI Stars’ head coach Branko Tucak has called up APR’s Kalisa Mao and Rayon Sport’s Albert Nyumbayire for Rwanda’s make or break 2010 Africa Nations Cup qualifier against Zambia. On top of deciding Rwanda’s fate as far as qualification for next year’s CAN is concerned, the November 14 tie also has a huge bearing on Tucak’s future especially with the likes of John Barnes waiting in the wings.

Monday, November 02, 2009
DESPERATE TIMES: Jimmy Mulisa and Branko Tucak know that their CAN hopes lies on the Zambia qualifier.

Fifa/CAN Qualifier
November 14
Rwanda v Zambia

AMAVUBI Stars’ head coach Branko Tucak has called up APR’s Kalisa Mao and Rayon Sport’s Albert Nyumbayire for Rwanda’s make or break 2010 Africa Nations Cup qualifier against Zambia.

On top of deciding Rwanda’s fate as far as qualification for next year’s CAN is concerned, the November 14 tie also has a huge bearing on Tucak’s future especially with the likes of John Barnes waiting in the wings.

The Croat has named a provisional 18-man squad which will be beefed up by Rwanda’s professional legion who jet in later this week.

Mao, who has been remarkable for APR this season, is expected to make his Amavubi debut while Nyumbayire has a good chance to fight for a place in the team where he has failed to hit top form.

Mao, who plays in central defense, was signed from DRC’s Vita club last season. Kiyovu’s Mwemere Ngirinshuti and Atraco’s Donatien Tuyizere are waiting in the wings in case of any injuries.

Rwanda host Zambia’s Chipolopolo next Saturday in what should surely make or break their CAN chances. Technically, Amavubi need to win by a two-goal difference to stand any hopes of reaching Angola.

After five Group C games, Zambia have amassed four points and managed a goal difference of (-3). Amavubi have managed a point and goal difference of (-7).

Therefore, a 2-0 win for Rwanda will leave both sides level on goal difference (-3) but Rwanda would edge the Chipolopolo on Fifa’s head-to-head rule.

Algeria tops the group on 13 points while African champions Egypt are in second place with 10 points, six clear of Zambia and a whole nine more than Rwanda
The world football body, Fifa has appointed Libyan referees to officiate the country’s world cup qualifier.

They include Jamel Ambaya, Foaad el Maghrabi, Naseraldin Mehmed, Adel el Raay and Burundi’s Bernard Mfubusa as the match commissioner.

Ends