Rwanda will need to put up a spirited comeback in Kigali if they are to qualify for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after suffering a 3-2 defeat to South Sudan in a thrilling first leg qualifying match held at Juba International Stadium on Sunday, December 22.
The visitors were close to a comeback late on in Juba but a resilient South Sudanese side held on to keep their advantage until fulltime.
Amavubi interim head coach Jimmy Mulisa started the encounter with Rayon Sports right back Ali Serumogo who was returning to Amavubi fold after a year without selection.
Mulisa overlooked the defender in his provisional squad before handing him a late selection after Omborenga Fitina pulled out of training session after suffering an injury.
Rwanda began the game brightly but it was South Sudan who shot ahead in the 13th minute through centre back Aimable Nsabimana who bundled the ball into his own net.
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The early goal unsettled Mulisa’s side as South Sudanese attacking duo Mandela Malish and Johanna Paulino, made inroads into the Amavubi penalty area.
Malish stunned Amavubi in the 21st minute with a fine finish after series of sloppy defending from the away side as South Sudan went 2-0 up.
The Bright Stars maintained the lead until halftime. Amavubi looked rejuvenated early in the second half as skipper Kevin Muhire reduced the deficit in the 49th minute to make it 2-1.
Rwanda went to sleep again but South Sudan couldn’t give them some space to breathe until Ezibon Ebon Malish scored the third goal in the 53rd to give the homed side a 3-1 lead.
Substitute Didier Mugisha again reduced the deficit for Amavubi in the 66th minute to make it 3-2 to keep the goal fest alive.
With 24 minutes to full time, Mulisa pushed more men in attack hoping to snatch a late equalizer but South Sudan defended gallantly as they won the game 3-2.
The two countries face in the ticket-deciding clash which will take place at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on December 28. The winner of the two-legged tie will qualify for 2024 CHAN finals which will take place in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from February 1-22.