Amavubi preps up for Mozambique tie

The national football team, Amavubi have shifted focus to the 2017 Africa Nations Cup qualifier against Mozambique slated for June 4 at Amahoro National Stadium. After losing 0-2 to Senegal in an international friendly on Saturday, head coach Johnny McKinstry has said his side will focus on delivering better results in the game against Mozambique next Saturday The Amavubi conceded the first goal in the 14th minute through Diouf Mame Biram before Sankhare Younnouse made it two in the 30th minute. Amavubi had two close chances through Ernest Sugira and Jacques Tuyisenge, but failed to convert them. Despite the loss, McKinstry said that the friendly tie was worthwhile in terms of preparations for Mozambique tie. “The first 30 minutes were like a tornado, our opponents’ speed and movement was overwhelming. Our players took some time to get to grips with the tempo of the game, and by the time we did, Senegal had converted two of their chances,” McKinstry said before adding that Amavubi performed much better in the second half in terms of trying to get beyond the Senegal defence, as well as applying the pressure on them when they had the ball. The coach noted that the quality of play displayed in the second half is what is needed against the Mozambique side, which also play fast football. Rwanda stunned Mozambique in the opening AFCON 2017 qualifier last June in Maputo to record their first away win in four years, but lost 1-0 to AFCON 2015 finalists Ghana in September. A shock 1-0 loss to Mauritius in Belle Vue in March threatened Rwanda’s chances of qualification but a superb comeback three days later saw the Amavubi register their biggest win in AFCON qualifiers, a remarkable and memorable 5-0 victory. On Saturday, Amavubi will be keen on registering maximum points to edge closer to Rwanda’s second participation at the continental tournament that attracts big teams from Africa. Rwanda’s last appearance at AFCON was back in 2004. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Amavubi preps up for Mozambique tie