Gicumbi FC restored their hopes of earning a promotion to the topflight league following Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Etoile de l’Est at Gicumbi Stadium.

Tresor Shyaka’s first half goal proved to be the match winner for Gicumbi, a result that dented Etoile's hopes of topflight promotion. The visitors pushed for an equalizer on numerous occasions but Gicumbi’s strong defense did all they could to avoid conceding a goal.

READ ALSO: Amagaju beat 10-man Vision, Etoile close in on topflight promotion

Etoile needed just a draw to secure their ticket back in the topflight league just a season after they were relegated to the second division.

But Gicumbi weren’t ready to let their home advantage get out of their hands easily despite their slow start to the Mini League campaign during which they only managed a point out of a possible six in their first two playoff games.

The result means the Gicumbi-based team are back in Premier League promotion favorites, after Amagaju were held by bottom-placed Vision FC to a 2-2 draw at Nyagisenyi Stadium.

Gicumbi will now need to win their final playoff game against Vision FC to qualify for the topflight league while Etoile now face a promotion dilemma ahead of their trip to Nyagisenyi Stadium where they will take on Amagaju FC on Saturday, May 20.

Table

1. Etoile de l’Est — 10 points

2. Gicumbi FC — 7 points

3. Amagaju FC — 7 points

4. Vision FC — 2 points