Warm-up matches

Friday Police Vs Vision 9am Rayon Vs AS Kigali 6pm

AS Kigali head coach Eric Nshimiyimana says that the lined-up game against Rayon Sports will raise the match fitness level of his players ahead of their clash against Tanzania’s KMC in the CAF Confederation Cup next week.

Rayon and AS Kigali meet in a warm-up friendly game Friday evening, starting 6pm, at Kigali Stadium as both sides prepare for their engagements in continental football.

According to Nshimiyimana, the friendly match is aimed at testing new signings and harnessing the team’s playing style before the KMC double-header.

"This is a good opportunity, especially for new players at the club. Playing against one of the best teams in the country is useful as we try to get back to regular playing rhythm ahead of the tough matches we have ahead,” said Nshimiyimana.

The Nyamirambo-based side beat second division side Vision FC 4-2 in another warm-up match on Tuesday.

On the other hand, the game also serves as a good test to Rayon Sports as Roberto Oliveira’s side step up preparations for their Champions League tie against Al Hilal Omdurman, of Sudan. The first-leg is scheduled for the weekend of August 9-11 in Kigali.

"We won’t necessarily be playing to win the game. Our primary goal is to spot loopholes in our game. But, of course, victory would boost players’ morale,” Brazilian Roberto told Times Sport on Thursday.

In another preseason game, Police take on Vision FC at Kicukiro Stadium this morning, starting at 9am.

Meanwhile, the local football governing body has announced that the 2019/2020 Azam Rwanda Premier League will get underway on September 13.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com