First test

Group C (Tonight)Rwanda vs England - SS7 (10pm)Uruguay vs Canada - SS7 (1am) Group DUzbekistan vs New Zealand - SS3 (10pm)USA vs Czech Republic - SS3 (1am) AFTER months of preparation, it’s time for the Junior Wasps to reap what they sowed. The youngsters open their World Cup campaign tonight against England in Group C. The match, to be played at Estadio Hidalgo, kicks off at 10pm. One thing for sure is Rwanda’s defense will be tested by England’s fast and direct strikers and Faustin Usengimana’s withdrawal two days ago because of a knee injury makes Richard Tardy’s task more difficult. The coach must find the right balance in defense. Michelle Rusheshangoga is now expected to partner Emery Bayisenge in central defense with Celestin Ndayishimiye and Jean Marie Rusingizandekwe playing at left and right back respectively. Usengimana’s absence is a big blow for the team considering his central role in Rwanda’s qualification for the World Cup. On top of his defensive duties; he scored three goals during the Caf U-17 Championship including that famous header against Egypt which propelled Rwanda to the semi-finals. But Tardy is backing Rusheshangoga to do the job. “He is a calm defender and reads the game well. He is also good in the air so I have no doubt that he will do well.” His England counterpart John Peacock sounded guarded ahead of the tie. “This is a very important game for us and will determine how well we play in the competition,” he said. Everton striker Hallam Hope will lead England’s attack. He has scored 10 goals in 12 games. After the Rwanda-England game, Uruguay will take on Canada. In Group D, Uzbekistan entertains New Zealand while Concacaf champions USA face Czech Republic at Estadio Corona in Torreon. Probable starting XI: Rwanda: M.Nzarora, JM Rusingizandekwe, M. Rusheshangoga, E. Bayisenge, C. Ndayishimiye, R. Ndatimana, E. Nsabimana, C. Mwesigye, A. Mugabo, M. Justin and A. Buteera England: J. Pickford, J. Cousins, B. Smith, A. Jackson, N. Chalobah, J. Lundstram,R, R. Sterling, N. Powell, J. Caskey, H. Hope and M. ClaytonEnds Ends