Vision FC were off to a perfect start to the second division playoffs as they defeated AS Muhanga 2-1 in the opening match held at Mumena Stadium, Nyamirambo.
First half goals from Radjabou Mbanjineza and Omar Nizeyimana secured the crucial three points for the hosts who are chasing a ticket for topflight football next season.
ALSO READ: AS Muhanga out to seize ‘last-minute’ playoffs chance
AS Muhanga, who were confirmed for the playoffs on Monday following Espoir FC's disqualification for fielding an ineligible goalkeeper, began the game strongly but couldn't maintain their momentum for long.
Vision FC's Fabrice Ishimwe squandered a prime opportunity to score, failing to capitalize on a perfect cross from Rashid Mutebi.
The home side kept pushing for an opening goal as Laurent Nshimiye fired long-range effort in the 15th minute but it was spectacularly saved by AS Muhanga’s goalkeeper Jules Micomyiza.
Vision FC broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Radjabou Mbanjineza finished a swift counter-attack initiated by Emmanuel Harerimana and assisted by Garang Akeeni.
Just four minutes later, Omar Nizeyimana doubled the lead with a free header from a corner delivered by Harerimana.
AS Muhanga pulled one back in the 30th minute through Chaste Gihozo, who capitalized on a defensive error from Vision FC following a well-taken corner.
Despite the visitors’ efforts to equalize, the first half ended 2-1 in favor of Vision FC.
The second half saw Vision FC dominate possession and create several chances. In the 57th minute, Rashid Mutebi missed a free header that could have extended their lead.
Moments later, goalkeeper Regis Shyaka narrowly escaped a red card for a foul outside his box but the referee opted to book him with a yellow card instead.
In the dying moments of the game, Mbanjineza missed a clear chance to score his second goal, failing to convert a one-on-one opportunity against goalkeeper Micomyiza.
In another playoff match, Rutsiro FC and Intare FC played out a goalless draw at Shyorongi Stadium.
Vision FC now leads the table with three points, followed by Intare and Rutsiro with one point each, while AS Muhanga are bottom of the table with zero points.