Rwanda is set to clash with hosts Tanzania on October 13 at the CECAFA U20 tournament, with Rwanda needing a win to avoid elimination following a poor start. Tanzania, conversely, looks to secure their advancement after two victories. Coaches Eric Nshimiyimana and Charles Boniface Mkwasa express contrasting pressures as they navigate this critical encounter.
On Sunday, October 13, Rwanda will face Tanzania at the Azam Sports Complex in a pivotal encounter of the 2024 CECAFA U20 tournament. This match represents the fourth outing for Tanzania, while Rwanda will participate in their third game. The stakes are high, particularly for Team Rwanda, led by Coach Eric Nshimiyimana, as they sit perilously close to elimination having accrued only one point from their two matches thus far. Rwanda commenced their campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Sudan but managed to demonstrate improvement by securing a goalless draw against Kenya in their subsequent match. Meanwhile, the Tanzanian side, known as the Ngorongoro Boys, finds themselves on the brink of qualification for the knockout stages after winning two out of their last three encounters. Following an unexpected 2-1 loss to Kenya, Tanzania rebounded spectacularly with a 7-0 triumph over Djibouti, and a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Sudan. Despite the rocky start, Tanzanian head coach Charles Boniface Mkwasa expressed confidence in his squad’s performance and aspirations to maintain their momentum. “The players gave their best and we are happy to register our second win now. I hope we can go win the trophy,” Mkwasa articulated post their win against Sudan. The home team will depend heavily on Sheikhan Khamis, who proved decisive by scoring the winning goal against Sudan, as well as Valentino Kussngama and Zidane Sereri, who both performed excellently in the previous match. Conversely, Rwanda is expected to maintain goalkeeper Fils Habineza, who was recognized as the standout performer in the match against Kenya. Key players such as Thierry Musabyimana, Sultan Sibomana, and Jesus Paul Sindi will need to display exceptional skill and resilience to secure a much-needed victory. For Rwanda, this is a must-win scenario, although they will face a formidable challenge against the competitive Tanzanian squad.
The CECAFA U20 tournament is a critical event in East African football, providing young athletes with the opportunity to showcase their talents on a regional stage. The tournament structure is competitive, with teams vying for a chance to progress to the knockout stage and eventually contend for the championship. This particular match between Rwanda and Tanzania is crucial as both teams assess their standings and aspirations within the tournament. Rwanda, having struggled to gain points early in the competition, approaches the game under great pressure, while Tanzania seeks to solidify its position after a series of commendable performances.
In conclusion, the upcoming match between Rwanda and Tanzania is rife with implications for both teams at the CECAFA U20 tournament. Rwanda faces the urgent need for a victory to avoid being eliminated, while Tanzania aims to secure their passage to the knockout stage with confidence after recent successes. The clash on October 13 will undoubtedly be a test of skill and determination as both teams strive to achieve their objectives in this crucial phase of the tournament.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
