Rayon Sports’ hopes of maintaining their title chase suffered a major setback this Saturday evening after a shocking 0-1 home defeat to Mukura Victory Sports in a highly anticipated Rwanda Premier League clash at Amahoro Stadium.
A goal from Ayilara Samson Oladosu in the 76th minute sealed the win for the visitors, silencing thousands of Rayon Sports fans who had turned up in full force, hoping for another crucial victory. The defeat dents Rayon’s ambitions of winning all their remaining matches to stay at the top of the table.
First Half Dominance Without a Breakthrough
From the first whistle, Rayon Sports showed attacking intent, with players like Abed Biramahire, Rukundo Abdul Rahman and Iraguha Hadji leading the charge. The first real chance came in the 13th minute when Biramahire Abed fired a long-range shot, but Mukura’s goalkeeper Sebwato Nicholas made a crucial save.
Mukura also had their moments, including a well-taken free kick in the 26th minute by Abdul Jalilu that flew over the bar.
Rayon thought they had broken the deadlock in the 36th minute when Biramahire Abed headed the ball into the net. However, the goal was ruled out by the referee after the ball was judged to have touched Rukundo Abdul Rahman’s arm before reaching Abed.
Rayon came close again just before halftime when Hadji Iraguha’s powerful strike forced another save from Sebwato. Moments later, Abed struck the post from a rebound, leaving the home fans in frustration. The first half ended goalless.
Mukura Strikes Late as Rayon Falters
Mukura started the second half stronger, gaining confidence with notable performances from Ndimbumba Nzau and Oladosu Samson. Rayon made substitutions in the 60th minute, bringing on Aziz Bassane and Kanamugire Roger to add fresh energy.
Despite Rayon’s attacking efforts, Mukura capitalized on a defensive error in the 76th minute. A lost ball by Rayon players in the midfield allowed Oladosu Samson to unleash a long-range strike that sailed past Rayon’s goalkeeper, giving Mukura the lead. The goal sent the visiting fans into celebration as Rayon’s supporters watched in disbelief.
Rayon pushed for an equalizer in the final minutes, with seven minutes of added time, but Mukura’s defense held firm to secure a vital away win.
Title Hopes in Jeopardy
The loss is a massive blow to Rayon Sports, who had launched a campaign to win all their remaining nine matches in a bid to secure the league title. With this unexpected defeat, their chances have been significantly reduced, and pressure is now on the team to bounce back in their next fixture.
Meanwhile, Mukura’s win strengthens their position in the league, proving they are a formidable force against top teams.
Rayon Sports will now have to regroup and find a way to regain momentum if they hope to keep their title aspirations alive.