Rayon Sports' dream of advancing in the CAF Confederation Cup came to an end after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Tanzania's Singida Black Stars FC during the second leg of the preliminary qualifiers. The heartbreaking loss resulted in an aggregate score of 3-1, sealing their elimination from the tournament.
On Saturday at 4 PM, Singida Black Stars FC hosted Rayon Sports at the Azam Complex Stadium in a highly anticipated match. Singida carried the advantage from the first leg where they secured a 1-0 win. Rayon Sports showed urgency early on, displaying impressive ball circulation and attacking moves, but their attempts to penetrate Singida's solid defense fell short.
In the 17th minute, Rayon Sports came close to scoring when Tony Kitoga unleashed a powerful shot, but it sailed just over the crossbar, frustrating the Rwandan fans watching the game.
Moments of tension rose in the 24th minute when Singida's midfielder Khalid Habib Idd suffered an injury and had to be substituted. This substitution seemed to boost Singida's aggression, with threats coming predominantly from Elvis Rupia, whose powerful strikes kept Rayon Sports under pressure.
The breakthrough for Rayon Sports finally arrived in the 37th minute, with Tambwe Gloire finding the back of the net. However, the jubilation was short-lived as Singida's Idriss Dioamande equalized in the 44th minute, capitalizing on a sharp pass from Elvis Rupia.
As the second half began, Singida Black Stars FC continued their dominance, searching for a decisive second goal. Rayon Sports goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzira managed an outstanding save against a thunderous shot from Tchakei, keeping hopes alive temporarily.
Disaster struck for Rayon Sports in the 57th minute when goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzira fumbled while trying to secure the ball. The blunder handed Anthony Trabi a golden opportunity to score, putting Singida ahead with their second goal.
Rayon Sports coach Murera attempted to revive his team by substituting Niyonzima Olivier Sefu for Aziz Bassane. Despite their efforts to equalize, Rayon Sports could not find the back of the net. The game ended in a 2-1 defeat, forcing Rayon Sports to exit the CAF Confederation Cup with a 3-1 aggregate score.
This outcome marks a tough moment for Rayon Sports fans, who had hoped for a comeback. Singida Black Stars FC now advances to the next stage of the tournament.
