Mukura turn focus to league after Xmas cup disappointment

Mukura Victory Sports head coach Godfroid Mukura has urged his players to focus on the Azam Rwanda Premier League, which resumes on Friday after a month-long break.

Wednesday, December 09, 2015

Mukura Victory Sports head coach Godfroid Mukura has urged his players to focus on the Azam Rwanda Premier League, which resumes on Friday after a month-long break.

The Burundian tactician made the call on Tuesday, two days after Mukura lost to league leaders AS Kigali 5-4 in spot shoot-outs in the final of the inaugural Christmas Cup, which was organised by Rayon Sports and sponsored by StarTimes.

Huye-based Mukura, who stand fifth in league table standings with 17 points after nine rounds, will host Abdu ‘Beken’ Bizimana’s Amagaju FC on Sunday at Muhanga stadium and a win would come in handy, according to Okoko.

"We were disappointed not to win the Christmas Cup, but I was impressed by the way the players’ performance in every game during the tournament, it puts us in a good position mentally and physically going into the league game on Sunday,” Okoko said.

He added, "Amagaju are always a challenging side, we will take that into account and plot a way to overcome them. All players are available for the game.”

Eric Nshimiyimana’s table leaders, AS Kigali defeated Mukura 5-4 on post-match penalties following a 1-all draw in regular time, and will resume their league title campaign against lowly Marines FC on Friday at Mumena stadium, Nyamirambo.

The topflight division league was put on hold on November 7 due busy schedule involving the national team.

Johnny McKinstry’s Amavubi stars had to play the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Libya and the recently concluded CECAFA Senior Challenge in Ethiopia where they lost 1-0 to Uganda Cranes in the final on Saturday.