THE SECOND season of the Airtel Rising Stars U17 soccer talent search is in high gear as 80 teams face early elimination across the country.

In Kigali 12 boys’ teams and 8 girls’ teams competed in the opening matches of season two of the Airtel rising stars U17 talent soccer hunt.

Matches in Kigali were held at Eto Kicukiro, Gatenga and Nyamirambo.

The Northern region was represented by 12 boys’ teams including Musanze TC, Tiger Academy and Kivu Football Club.

A total of 8 girls’ teams competed at Umuganda and Rusenge football grounds. In the boys’ category, Les Abilles, Musanze, Kivu, Lioncon, Omega and Rubavu emerged as victors while Nyakiriba, White star and Rapides FC demonstrated skillful performances in the girls’ category.

The Eastern region saw Nyagatare and Kayonza football clubs representing the boys while Intashya Football Club emerged victorious in the girls’ category. A total of 10 girls’ teams and 8 boys’ teams were selected from this region.

In the Southern region, Nyanza and Gitwe were winners in the 16 boys’ category while Gihango and Gihise were winners in the girls’ category.

All teams will now compete in the semi final stage this weekend. This year’s Airtel Rising Stars in Rwanda was launched by Arsenal legend Tony Adams and Arsenal FC remains a partner in this tournament alongside Ferwafa.