Rayon Sports will be seeking a strong performance when they host Mozambique’s Black Bulls in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round at Amahoro Stadium on October 17.
The Blues know that a positive result in Kigali could put them in a strong position ahead of the return leg in Maputo, as they aim to reach the competition’s group stage for the first time since 2018.
Despite suffering a 1-0 defeat to Gorilla FC in the Rwanda Premier League last week, Rayon Sports head coach Francis Haringingo remains confident his side can bounce back and deliver against a Black Bulls team that has established itself among Mozambique’s leading clubs in recent years.
The Burundian tactician believes the domestic setback has provided valuable lessons for his players as they turn their attention to continental competition.
"We have learned from our last game, and now our focus is on the CAF Confederation Cup. This is a different competition, and we are ready for the challenge ahead,” Haringingo said.
The Rayon Sports coach has also called on supporters to turn out in large numbers and create an intimidating atmosphere at Amahoro Stadium, believing their backing could prove crucial in a closely contested two-legged tie.
"Football has good moments and difficult moments. We need our supporters to stand with the team in all circumstances because they give us extra strength. We want them to come in large numbers and help us achieve a good result,” he said.
Rayon Sports head into the encounter looking to build on the momentum gained from winning the CECAFA Kagame Cup in Kigali earlier in the season. However, their recent league defeat underlines the need for a strong response as they pursue their continental ambitions.
Home advantage could be vital for the Blues, who will be keen to secure a comfortable lead before travelling to Mozambique for the return leg.
Black Bulls, meanwhile, arrive in Kigali with a growing reputation in Southern African football. Their physical approach and tactical discipline are expected to provide a stern test for the Rwandan side over the two legs.
Haringingo, however, insists his technical team has studied the visitors and is confident Rayon Sports have the quality to compete.
"We know Black Bulls, and we have watched them. We respect them because they are a good team, but we are not afraid. We believe in our quality, and we will do everything possible to get the result we need,” he said.
Saturday’s encounter represents one of Rayon Sports’ biggest challenges of the season so far, with a place in the next stage of the competition at stake.
For the Blues, the objective will be to make home advantage count, deliver a disciplined performance and secure a first-leg result that strengthens their hopes of progressing towards the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.