Thursday

APR vs Mukura

Friday

Kiyovu vs Police

It will be a clash of egos, and for supremacy, when APR and Mukura, both unbeaten so far this season, square off in Azam Rwanda Premier League at Kigali Stadium on Thursday.

Leaders APR have practically bulldozed their way to the top, but one of the clubs that can actually hurt them in the competition is Francis Haringingo’s side.

Both the reigning champions and Peace Cup holders, Mukura, are unbeaten going into the much-awaited encounter and arguably what could possibly be the best match of the season.

The match was initially scheduled for December 1, 2018 but it was postponed due to the two sides’ involvement in CAF competitions when APR had to face Tunisia’s Club Africain in Champions League while Mukura were playing against Free State Stars of South Africa.

Speaking to Times Sport on Wednesday, Mukura head coach Haringingo said: "We need to win the game (against APR) and maintain our unbeaten run, we will do all that is possible. We know they are a very good side and they will be playing at home, but, that won’t intimidate us.

"We have beaten them at home before.”

After eight league games this term, Mukura are in second position with 22 points, having won seven times and drawn once. They trail APR by four points but the latter have played three games more.

"We have had a great start to this season, and that has boosted confidence of my players. It’s going to be a tough game, but we are ready for the challenge,” the Burundian tactician added.

His APR counterpart Jimmy Mulisa conceded that, "We are probably facing the best Mukura side in a long time. We have to be cautious, avoid silly mistakes and try to make the most of every goal opportunity.”

The former Amavubi forward added, "Dropping points will cost us dearly in the title race, we have prepared well for the game and we will approach it as a final game. It’s a must-win.”

The military side lead the table with 26 points, four ahead of Mukura and third-placed Rayon Sports. However, Rayon have played four games more.

A win for Mukura will not only end APR’s ten-game unbeaten run but will also lift them to one point within of the leaders while having three games in hand – against Police, Amagaju and Musanze – as they bid for a historic first league title since the club’s establishment in 1963.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw