World/Africa Nations Cup Qualifier
Group C
Rwanda v Egypt (Saturday)
Algeria v Zambia (Sunday)

AMAVUBI’s new skipper Hamad Ndikumana ‘ Katauti’ believes Rwanda can bring down African champions Egypt in Saturday’s crunch 2010 World/ Africa Nations Cup qualifier at Amahoro stadium.

Ndikumana, who recently took over the team captaincy from Olivier Karekezi realises that he has to lead from the front and inspire his team mates in what will surely make or break Rwanda’s African Nations Cup dream.

"The fact that we are playing at home should spur us on. It is going to be difficult playing minus some of our top players like Eric Gasana, Patrick Mafisango and Jean Mugiraneza but we are ready to fight,” the centre-back said.

"In the past few games, we have not been sharp enough in front of goal but we hope to put things right this Saturday,” he added.

Karekezi, now Amavubi’s assistant captain also echoed Ndikumana’s remarks saying "We have a huge task at hand and need all the support we can get from our home fans.”

"In the past few games, I have played as a striker but hope to return to my preferred postion (between the strikers) on Saturday,” he added.

Amavubi’s winger Haruna Niyonzima is ready to fight on as he chases for a maiden appearance in the Africa Nations Cup.
"I have never played in the CAN tournament and would love to do it sooner rather than later.”

Egypt’s midfield duo Mohamed Abou-Treika and Mohamed Barakat is expected to undergo a late fitness test for Saturday’s game.

Abou-Treika is struggling with a knee injury while Barakat has a pelvic strain.

Rwanda is bottom of Group C after managing a point from her first three games. Algeria top the standings with seven points, three more than Egypt and Zambia, who are tied on four points.

Ends