Friday

Group B

Rwanda 2-1 Tanzania

The national U15 football team have reached the semi-finals of the inaugural CECAFA U15 Challenge after edging Tanzania 2-1 on Friday.

After three match rounds, Rwanda leads Group B with a maximum 9 points having previously beaten South Sudan and Ethiopia in the first two games. 

During Friday’s victory, skipper Kenedy Hoziyana put Yves Rwasamanzi’s side ahead in the 4th minute with a brilliant strike from outside the box, but Tanzania equalized from the spot four minutes later after keeper Christian Nshimiyimana brought down Joseph Fundumo in the box. Rabbin Sanga Katuli converted the penalty.

Eric Irahamye curled in what proved to be the winning goal in the 32nd minute to extend his siude’s perfect start to three wins, and book a ticket to semis with a game to spare.

"I am glad we have made it to the semis. I knew Tanzania was very dangerous on attack, that’s why we employed a solid defending system,” said head coach Rwamasanzi after the crucial win.

Rwanda will face Uganda in the two sides’ final game on Sunday before the last four encounters, due on August 28.

Meanwhile, in Group A action on Saturday, Burundi take on Sudan while Somalia will be up against the hosts Eritrea.

The final is scheduled for August 30.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com