The local football governing body (FERWAFA) has disqualified Espoir FC from the upcoming second division playoffs over fielding an ineligible player during the just-concluded 2023/24 second division league regular season.

It is reported that the Rusizi-based side was docked 15 points corresponding to five games that Congolese striker Christian Watanga Milembe played for the club because "he did not have documents, issued by FERWAFA, to play in Rwanda.”

Espoir FC had qualified for the second division league playoffs after finishing second in Group B in the regular season, but their ticket became null and void as a result of the sanctions. Hence, third-placed AS Muhanga will take their place in the playoffs.

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FERWAFA said that the decision was taken by the Committee in charge of Competitions based on the information provided by AS Muhanga on May 20 regarding the fact that Watanga was playing for Espoir FC without a license to play in Rwanda.

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Reports indicate that the player was using a fake license during his short spell at Espoir.

AS Muhanga will face Vision FC in the opening match of the playoffs on Wednesday, May 22. Meanwhile, Espoir FC said that they will not appeal against the decision.