Monday, March 16

Rayon Sports vs Al Merrikh (Kigali Pele Stadium, 20:30)

Rayon Sports FC will be aiming to close the gap on the league leaders when they face Al-Merrikh SC in a crucial Rwanda Premier League clash at Kigali Stadium on Monday evening.

Kick-off is scheduled for 8:30 pm.

The Blues face a tough challenge as they look to secure maximum points against Al-Merrikh, who currently sit third on the table with 44 points, just two behind league leaders APR FC.

A victory for the Sudanese side could potentially see them move to the top of the standings, adding extra significance to the encounter.

Rayon will be hoping to rely on star striker Fall Ngagne, who is pushing to regain his best form ahead of the match.

The Senegalese forward believes his team has what it takes to claim victory and remain in contention for the title.

"My teammates know what they should do to win the game, and we have to focus on one match at a time in the remaining league fixtures. We are taking this game seriously as we aim to secure the three points,” Ngagne said.

"There is no room for mistakes for us, so every game is basically a decider. We must remain positive, stay focused and aim to win this match.”

Squad boost and injury concerns

Head coach Bruno Ferry will be boosted by the return of midfielder Gloire Tambwe, who is back in the squad.

Tambwe previously made an impact in the first round meeting between the two sides, scoring a goal and providing an assist against Al-Merrikh.

However, Rayon will be without defender Emery Bayisenge and striker Didier Mugisha, both sidelined with injuries.

Bayisenge is expected to miss several weeks, although medical scans have confirmed that his muscle injury is less serious than initially feared.

Rayon Sports currently sit fourth on the table with 38 points, and a win would move them up to 41 points, strengthening their push in the title race.