By Ben Kwizera
Rayon Sports secured a 2-1 victory over Rutsiro F.C in the first leg of the 2025 Peace Cup round of 16. The highly anticipated match took place at Umuganda Stadium in Rubavu. Following a controversial draw against Musanze in the Rwanda Premier League, Rayon Sports managed to claim a crucial win against Rutsiro F.C.
With the second phase of the Rwandan Premier League kicking off last weekend, football fans were eagerly anticipating thrilling midweek matches in the 2024/2025 Peace Cup. Rayon Sports faced Rutsiro, while APR F.C played against Musanze F.C.
At Umuganda Stadium, Rutsiro F.C, coached by one of the most prolific coaches in the Rwandan Premier League, Gatera Moussa, was prepared to give Rayon Sports a tough challenge. The stadium was packed with supporters from both teams. After dropping two points against Musanze the previous weekend, Rayon Sports was determined to secure a win and end its two-year trophy drought.
In the 23rd minute, after a sensational pass from Fall Ngagne, Malian international Adama Bagayogo put Rayon Sports ahead with an outstanding goal. Rayon Sports continued to create chances, but Rutsiro’s defensive line worked hard to prevent further goals. The first half ended in favor of Rayon Sports, leading 1-0.
The first 15 minutes of the second half were particularly intense for Rutsiro, as Rayon Sports attacked aggressively, mainly through winger Aziz Bassane and team captain Muhire Kevin. In the 60th minute, Youssou Diagne scored a magnificent second goal for Rayon Sports.
Rayon Sports’ midfield and defense remained well-organized, preventing any goals until the 85th minute when Jonas scored Rutsiro F.C’s only goal of the match.
In other first-leg games of the 2024/2025 Peace Cup, APR F.C and Musanze played to a goalless draw, while Police F.C was defeated 2-1 by Nyanza F.C.
At Mumena Stadium in Nyamirambo, an intense match between Gorilla F.C and City Boys ended in a 1-1 draw. Meanwhile, AS Muhanga was defeated 2-0 by Gasogi United, and Amagaju secured a 2-1 victory over Bugesera F.C.