Peace Cup 2019: SC Kiyovu keen on strong start against Mukura

Wednesday Mukura Vs Kiyovu 15:00 Etoile de l’Est Vs Police 15:00 Gicumbi Vs Espoir 15:00 Intare Vs Bugesera 15:00 SC Kiyovu will be keen on getting a good result when they face holders Mukura Victory Sports in the last-16 of the 2019 Peace Cup tournament on Wednesday. The Green Baggies travel to Huye Stadium looking to upset Mukura at home before hosting them – at Mumena Stadium, on Saturday – in the decisive clash for a spot in quarter-finals. Speaking to Times Sport on Tuesday, head coach Alain Kirasa challenged his Kiyovu players to ‘at least get a draw’ in the first-leg as away advantage so they finish off the job at home. “We are ready, and we will fight with all we have to win the game. But if we fail to; the least we are settling for is a draw,” said the former Burundi international. “Mukura have always proved to be tough opponents, but the morale and determination (from my players) to accomplish the mission is there. And, that’s a good starting point.” The Mumena-based side are on hunt for their first Peace Cup silverware having lost three consecutive (1995, 1996 and 1997) finals, and a first major title since the 1993 league title. On the other hand, Mukura coach Francis Haringingo has also vowed: “The home leg is a must-win. We have prepared well, and the morale in the camp is high.” “Our target is to retain the title.” In other matches on Wednesday, second tier outfit Etoile de l’Est host Police, Espoir take on Gicumbi, while Intare will be up against Bugesera. Mukura won the 2018 Peace Cup title after beating Rayon Sports 3-1 in penalty shootouts, following a goalless draw in regular time and 30 minutes of extra-time, last August. The recently crowned 2018/2019 league champions, Rayon, delight Marines FC on Thursday. editor@newtimesrwanda.com