Bugesera FC claimed a significant 2-1 victory over Rayon Sports in the 28th matchday of Rwanda's Premier League, as the game resumed on Wednesday at 4 PM after initial suspension.
The match had been halted at the 57th minute due to unrest instigated by Rayon Sports fans, who were dissatisfied with the referee’s decisions. When play resumed from the same minute, the teams lined up with the players who had been active at the time of suspension. FERWAFA, Rwanda’s football governing body, had mandated that the game proceed without fans in attendance.
Rayon Sports began the resumed portion of the game by making key substitutions, bringing on Nshimiyimana Emmanuel ‘Kabange’ and Prince Elanga Kanga in place of Ndayishimiye Richard and Adama Bagayogo.
With Bugesera FC holding a 2-0 lead, their defense remained resolute against Rayon Sports’ aggressive attempts to strike. On the 64th minute, Bugesera’s Serumogo Ally mishandled the ball, which was quickly picked up by Umar Abba. However, rather than advancing toward the goal, Umar chose to play it backward, missing a potential scoring opportunity.
Rayon Sports relied heavily on long aerial passes, often delivered by Serumogo Ally, yet Bugesera’s defenders consistently disrupted their rhythm, neutralizing efforts from forwards like Biramahire Abbedy.
In the 75th minute, Prince Elanga Kanga presented Rayon Sports with a scoring opportunity, but Bugesera defenders intercepted his attempt. The rebound found Ishimwe Fiston, who followed through with a shot that narrowly missed the target.
Bugesera responded by making substitutions of their own, bringing Nyarugabo Moise to replace Reuben Bala Yakubu.
Rayon Sports continued adjustments, substituting Serumogo Ally and Biramahire Abbedy with fresh players Jalo Adulai Jalo and Assana Nah.
Finally, in the 84th minute, Rayon Sports broke their scoring drought with a well-placed assist from Assana Nah to Bugingo Hakim, who netted a clean goal to bring the score to 2-1.
In response to their conceded goal, Bugesera FC employed delaying tactics. These actions led to two yellow cards for their players. Nonetheless, the match concluded with Bugesera securing a hard-fought 2-1 win and earning three crucial points. This victory elevated them to 10th place in the league standings with 34 points.
Rayon Sports, meanwhile, lost their top spot in the league standings, dropping to second place with 59 points. They now trail APR FC, the new league leaders, by two points.
Bugesera FC showcased exceptional resilience to secure a 2-1 triumph over Rayon Sports in a league match that unfolded across two consecutive days.