Kiyovu Sports welcome AS Kigali at Kigali Pele Stadium on Saturday, August 26, hoping to pick their first three points of the 2023/24 Rwanda Premier League season.
AS Kigali have been a regular torn in the flesh of Kiyovu Sports, having won eight games, drawn six and lost only four in their last 18 meetings.
Despite the Green Baggies coming close to winning the title in the previous two seasons, they often struggled against AS Kigali. For instance, they had a day to forget when the Citizens thrashed them 4-0 in a league match on November 2, 2021.
A lot of changes has happened between the two teams in the transfer window which was characterized by major squad rebuild following player exodus at both clubs.
Kiyovu struggled in their opening match against Muhazi FC which ended in a goalless draw while Antoine Dominique Ndayishimiye scored a solitary goal that helped AS Kigali pick up their first three points after a narrow 1-0 win over Bugesera FC.
Prior to Saturday’s clash, there is not much to separate from the two teams but one player who could make the difference in the encounter is Kiyovu skipper Olivier Niyonzima who will be looking to win the battle against his former employers.
The Mumena-based side failed to create any decent chances in their game against Muhazi United and they must be at their maximum best if they are overcome a side which has been a tough customer for them.
Kiyovu could pair Fred Muhozi and Mikel Freeman in attack as they hope to record their first win of the season.
Meanwhile, AS Kigali coach André Casa Mbungo could stick to the same squad which beat Bugesera FC 1-0 on Monday.
ALSO READ: Muhazi United hold Kiyovu in league opener
It looks a dicey game but AS Kigali have an edge on the game considering their past records against Kiyovu.
Other Games
At Huye Sports Stadium, Mukura Victory Sports host Marine FC hoping to amass the three maximum points.
Mukura have been boosted in attack by Ghanaian winger Samuel Pimpong who received his work permit on Friday and will likely have some minutes.
Elsewhere, Musanze, who destroyed Etoile de l'Est thanks to a 4-1 away win in Ngoma last weekend, are destined to make it two wins in a row when they welcome Bugesera FC to the Ubworoherane Stadium in the Northern Province.
At Nyagatare Stadium, Sunrise FC are likely to pick their first win of the season when they entertain Etoile de l'Est.
Both teams lost their opening games but Sunrise look favorites to win at the "Golgotha".