Big tests for APR, Rayon

• As Kagame Cup enters last eight stage Kagame Cup Quarter finals (today) Sofapaka vs Rayon Sport 3pmAPR vs Simba 5pm APR don’t need to be reminded that their dream of a third Kagame Cup title rests on how well they play in this evening’s quarter-final clash with Simba at Amahoro Stadium. The army side, which only played 41 minutes in Saturday’s Group A clash with TP Mazembe, is up for the task according to head coach Erik Paske. “The players don’t need to be reminded of what is at stake. We have prepared well for the game and hope things go according to plan,” the Dutch said. APR’s attack will be spearheaded by the Malawian duo of Chiukepo Msowoya and Victory Nyirenda. In his pre-match remarks, Simba coach Patrick Phili said that an upset was in the pipeline. “Many think we don’t have what it takes to eject APR and we have no problem with that because we want to prove it on pitch.” In the other day’s quarter-final match, Rayon Sport take on Sofapaka and Blues’ coach Emmanuel Ruremesha has called on the club fans to fill the stadium and make the scene intimidating for the Kenyan champions who are coached by former Atraco boss Sam Ssimbwa. Rayon ended their Group B campaign as runners up to St. George even though both sides had tied on points (four). On the other hand, Sam Ssimbwa’s side was in unstoppable form as they crushed anything that came their way in Group C. After starting off strongly with a convincing 3-0 win over Uganda Revenue Authority, Sofapaka edged Simba 1-0 before exposing loopholes in Atraco’s backline with another 3-0 mauling. But Ruremesha who joined the Blues last month to see out the side’s season is certain the club’s fans can play a vital role. “We have very vocal fans and I have no doubt that with their backing, we can oust the Kenyans.” “I have watched Sofapaka play and I must concede that they are very organised but they do have some flaws, which I will be looking to exploit,” the former Atraco assistant coach said. The winner between Rayon and Sofapaka plays the winner between APR and Simba in the semi-finals. Ends

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Big tests for APR, Rayon