Étincelles FC interim coach Abdou ‘Bekeni’ Bizimana has expressed high optimism for improved results as the Rubavu-based side prepares to host Musanze FC at Umuganda Stadium on Saturday, February 7, in the second round of the Rwanda Premier League (RPL). The renewed confidence follows a 2–1 victory over Vision FC on Wednesday in the Peace Cup. Speaking to Times Sports, Bekeni said morale within the squad has improved significantly, with hopes of securing more positive results in the upcoming matches. “We are all fighting to avoid relegation at all costs, at least ensuring the team climbs to 15th place from the bottom of the table,” he said. “The players are in good shape. Our main challenge has been attacking, but we are hopeful of good results considering our recent match against Vision FC. There is no room for jokes now, especially judging from our training.” The interim coach highlighted that he is working closely with the newly appointed technical staff. I am familiar with the assistant coach and know the good work he has done with teams in Goma and Musanze FC. So, we’re working together as sportsmen,” he noted. Times Sports understands that Étincelles FC management has provided its full support behind Bekeni following the dismissal of five members of the club’s technical staff. The new appointees include Congolese Todet Farini as assistant coach, goalkeepers coach Danny Nduwayo, and team manager Abdou Nshimiyimana, aka Papy, who is also the club’s captain. Players such as acting captain Hussein Nsabimana believe the team is improving under the new caretaker coach, whom he says understands the club well. “We have increased our efforts to ensure the team does not return to the second division,” Nsabimana said. “A win against Musanze would be very motivating, and the growing support is raising hopes for better results.” Nsabimana also indicated that injuries to key players Papy and Hamza Enock Iranzi have affected the squad’s balance, contributing to disappointing results in recent RPL matches. Étincelles FC currently sits bottom of the RPL table with just 11 points.
