Ahead of Ivory Coast clash

Tuesday

(1st semi-final)

Burkina Faso vs Congo
Amahoro stadium

Wednesday
(2nd semi-final)

Rwanda       vs  Ivory Coast
 Amahoro stadium

EMERY Bayisenge is ready to give the junior wasps a huge boost by declaring himself fit for Wednesday’s semi-final showdown against Ivory Coast at Amahoro stadium.

The side’s captain had light training yesterday and is hoping to recover from his ankle injury in time for the Caf U-17 championship semi-final.

The team’s physio Patrick Rutamu yesterday said: "He is responding well to treatment and has a very good chance of playing in Wednesday’s game.”

Bayisenge, whose outstanding performances have earned him a call up to the senior national team (Amavubi Stars), injured his ankle during Rwanda’s final group tie against Senegal. The hosts lost the tie 1-0 but it was of no significance as Rwanda had already qualified for the championship semi-final but most importantly, the 2011 Fifa U-17 World Cup which will be held in Mexico.

Midfielder Eric Nsabimana, who missed the Senegal game through suspension, is also back in the side.

Tomorrow, Group A leaders Burkina Faso take on Congo Brazzaville in the first semi-final at Amahoro Stadium.
The West Africans wrapped up their group campaign on a high after Friday’s comprehensive 4-0 victory over pre-tournament favorites Egypt which left them top of the group on goal difference.

Rwanda finished second on six points while Egypt and Senegal packed their bags after managing three points apiece.

Like Rwanda, all the other semi-finalists have a direct ticket to Mexico.

Ivory Coast remains the only uneaten side in the competition after registering two wins and a draw at the group stage. This means that they finished top of the group with seven points, one more than the Congolese.

Ends