Munyeshyaka earns 10-man Espoir FC a point against Ivoire Olympique

Substitute Gilbert Munyeshyaka came to the rescue and scored a late equalizer in club’s hard-fought 2-2 draw against Ivoire Olympique in a tense second division league encounter held at Mumena Stadium on Saturday, January 20. Espoir were trailing 2-1 until Munyeshyaka came from the bench to level the scores in the 88th minute and hand the Rusizi-based side a crucial point that kept them in the race for playoffs. They sweated for the result considering that they played a part of their stoppage time with a man down after Eric Kaneza was sent off for a straight red card. READ ALSO: Espoir FC bolster squad with 18 new signings Espoir FC started the game strongly, creating numerous chances and pressing for an early lead. Their efforts paid off when winger Salim Saleh shot the visitors ahead after just 12 minutes of action. The goal awoke Ivoire Olympique who started to dominate the game looking to cancel the lead. And they equalized in the 26th minute through forward Didier Nkusi. The pair made a series of crucial attempts on goal but the score remained 1-1 until half time. Espoir made changes in attack before the second half started, bringing on Eric Kanza and Jimmy Kibengo for Egide Iradukunda and Emmanuel Byukusenge. Ivoire Olympique maintained their pace in the second half, and they took the lead in the 58th minute through Ashraf Omar. After conceding the goal, Espoir made a double substitution in the the 63rd minute with Gilbert Munyeshyaka and Lomami Frank coming in for Saaka Yusuf and Eric Mutangana respectively as they looked to bring the game level again. Ivoire Olympique had stood to their 2-1 lead until the 88th minute when Munyeshyaka leveled the scores to salvage a point for his side late on. Espoir were reduced to 10 men after Eric Kaneza was sent off in injury time but they visitors held on to secure a draw. With the result, Espoir are now third in Group B with 26 points after 11 games. They are level with second-placed AS Muhanga who have played a game less.

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Munyeshyaka earns 10-man Espoir FC a point against Ivoire Olympique