Thursday, January 8: Al Merrikh vs Police FC (Kigali Pele Stadium, 18:00) Sunday, January 11: Police FC Vs Kiyovu SC (Kigali Pele Stadium, 15:00) Police FC coach Ben Moussa faces a daunting week as his side looks to maintain their title push against Al Merrikh and Kiyovu SC in the space of three days. The law enforcers first travel to face Al Merrikh on Thursday before hosting Francis Haringingo’s Kiyovu SC three days later. Both matches will be played at Kigali Pelé Stadium. A comfortable 3-0 victory over Gorilla FC on Friday kept Police FC at the top of the league standings with 32 points, three clear of APR FC, who have a game in hand. Thursday’s opponents, Al Merrikh, sit third on 28 points, and a win would see them close the gap on the leaders to just one point. Despite their position at the summit, Police FC have struggled for consistency in recent outings and could surrender top spot if Al Merrikh capitalise on their four games in hand. Nonetheless, Moussa remains confident in his team’s progress. “We are not lucky to be here. We fought hard to reach this position and we must keep the fighting spirit in every game,” he said. “We are still top despite recent draws and one loss, but we need to stay fully focused on Thursday and avoid mistakes.” The Tunisian tactician warned of the threat posed by Al Merrikh, adding: “I have told the players to stay focused until the last minute. Al Merrikh are a good side and can cause problems. We need to win to keep our title hopes alive.” Police FC have lost just once in the league this season, recording nine wins and five draws. Al Merrikh, meanwhile, have suffered two defeats and one draw while winning nine of their last 12 matches.
