Wednesday, May 21 Bugesera FC 2-1 Rayon Sports A late goal from Hakim Bugingo proved too little, too late as Rayon Sports failed to overturn a two-goal deficit from controversially postponed match which resumed behind closed doors at Bugesera Stadium on Wednesday, May 21. The match had been called off in the 57th minute on Saturday, May 17, after Rayon Sports fans threw projectiles onto the pitch in protest against center referee Patrick Ngaboyisonga, whom they accused of denying their team a penalty. Tension flared moments earlier when Abeddy Biramahire was brought down in Bugesera’s penalty area, but the referee waved play on. In a quick counterattack, Bugesera were awarded a penalty that Umar Abba converted in the 55th minute, sparking fury among traveling fans who chanted “we are fed up, we are fed up,” prompting the referee to call off the match, citing security reasons. Bugesera were leading 2-0 before the match was called off. Two days after the riots local football governing body ruled that the match would resume from the minute it had been suspended, with the same scoreline and match officials, but with no fans in attendance. Only club officials and honorary presidents were allowed in the stadium. As the match resumed on, Rayon Sports made two changes to their lineup—with Prince Elenga Kanga and Emmanuel Nshimiyimana coming in for Adama Bagayogo and Richard Ndayishimiye. Bugesera maintained their composure and defended well, but Rayon Sports continued to push for a way back. The visitors pulled one back in the 85th minute through Bugingo who slotted home from an Innocent Assana cross after goalkeeper Fils Habineza failed to clear the ball. Four minutes were added on regulation time but Rayon Sports couldn’t find an equalizer as Bugesera held on to secure a crucial 2-1 win which saw them climb to 10th place with 34 points as Rayon dropped to second with 59 points. The Blues’ title hopes may be over provided that APR win their remaining two matches.
