Vision FC’s bid to secure the playoffs spot in Rwanda’s second division were dealt a big blow as Interforce FC held them to a goalless draw at Mumena Stadium on Saturday, April 27. ALSO READ: Second Division: Vision FC thrash Gicumbi FC to maintain top spot The hosts were eager to secure a vital win, which would have ensured their playoff qualification with two games to spare, but the visitors held back as they thwarted every attacking move of Vision FC’s attacking side. Like the first half, the second half began with both teams making no serious efforts to break the deadlock as they were playing mostly in the midfield with few balls reaching the final third. ALSO READ: Habumuremyi's own goal dents AS Muhanga's topflight promotion hopes Emmanuel Harerimana almost gave his side the lead in the 12th minute but his effort was ruled out for offside. The remainder of the first half was characterized by hesitant play from both teams, with neither side managing to create any clear-cut chances. Referee blew his whistle for half-time break as both sides failed to score, leaving home side Vision FC fans frustrated in their pursuit of the win. The second half was equally challenging for Vision FC as Rashid Mutebi squandered a promising header, thanks to a pinpoint cross from Ibrahim Nshimiyimana. With the clock ticking, both teams began to open up, providing a greater attacking impetus, and Vision were particularly aggressive, demonstrating their desperation for a goal. The home side endured a nervous moment in the 79th minute when Interforce forward Lemon Habumuremyi's long-range effort from outside the box hit the woodwork before the ball rebounded to safety. It was a heart-stopping moment for Fils Muvunyi’s men, who were desperate to preserve their clean sheet and find a breakthrough of their own. The last 10 minutes saw Vision FC take control, with multiple chances presenting themselves in front of goal. However, despite their valiant efforts, the team was unable to break the deadlock, leaving the home supporters frustrated as the full-time whistle blew, signaling a hard-fought but fruitless stalemate. Elsewhere, Espoir FC was awarded a comfortable 3-0 victory as their opponents, Impeesa, failed to show up to the ground at Rusizi Stadium for their scheduled fixture in Group B. This is the second time Espoir FC have benefited from a forfeit, having previously been awarded a similar result when SORWATE FC was unable to field a team on March 30. The win has brought Espoir FC closer to the top of the table, reducing their deficit to just two points, having played one game less than table leaders Vision FC. In the wake of Vision FC's draw, the race for the Rwanda second division playoffs intensifies, with AS Muhanga set to host Akagera FC in a crucial tie on Sunday, April 28. Group B table 1. Vision FC — 56 points 2. Espoir FC — 54 points (-1) 3. AS Muhanga — 48 points (-1) 4. Interforce FC — 39 points (-1)
