Rayon Sports moved closer to the knockout stage of the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup after securing a 1-0 victory over Kenya’s Tusker FC in their second Group C match.
The Rwandan champions earned maximum points on Wednesday, July 29, at Kigali Pele Stadium, building on their opening win against Zanzibar’s KVZ SC and keeping their qualification hopes alive.
Coach Haringingo Francis Christian made two changes to the team that started against KVZ SC, with Kameni Herman Junior and Nshuti Didier coming into the starting lineup, while Nizeyimana Mubaraka and Wakonda Abdel Matumona were left among the substitutes.
Tusker FC dominated possession in the first half but failed to create enough clear chances, with goalkeeper Dande Junior making a key save to deny the Kenyan side in the 29th minute.
Rayon Sports were more effective on the counterattack and eventually broke the deadlock in stoppage time before halftime.
The decisive goal came after Muderi Akbar made a run down the right flank and delivered a cross into the box. Kameni Herman Junior let the ball pass through to Antonio Atisso Kodjo Kossivi, who controlled it before unleashing a left-footed strike into the net.
Rayon Sports continued to threaten after the break, creating several opportunities to extend their lead. Muderi Akbar missed a free-kick chance in the 54th minute, while Nshuti Didier’s header went over the bar shortly afterwards.
Iradukunda Elie Tatou also came close in the 58th minute when his effort hit the post.
Tusker FC pushed for an equaliser, but Rayon Sports defended well to secure their second consecutive victory and remain in contention for a place in the quarter-finals.
In the other Group C fixture, Sudan’s Al Hilal SC Omdurman defeated KVZ SC 4-0 to maintain their perfect record.
Mohamed Abdelrahman scored in the fifth minute, Muhammed Rawa added another in the 29th minute, before Ansumana Samura and Taiwo Akire completed the win with goals in the 80th and 90th minutes.
Al Hilal top Group C with six points and a +6 goal difference, while Rayon Sports are second with six points and a +3 goal difference. Tusker FC and KVZ SC have been eliminated after losing both of their opening matches.
Rayon Sports will face Al Hilal in their final group match on August 1 at Amahoro Stadium, with both sides fighting for a strong finish in the group. The match will kick off at 7:00 p.m.
