CAF Conf Cup: Rivers United edge Rayon in playoff round first leg

CAF Conf. CupPlayoff round - First legRivers United 2-0 Rayon Sport Rayon Sports have a mountain to climb if they are to progress to the group stages of the 2017 Total CAF Confederation Cup after losing in first leg of the playoff round against Nigeria’s Rivers United. The reigning Peace Cup holders bidding to become the first Rwandan club ever to reach the group stage were humbled with 2-0 beating at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt on Sunday. Rayon Sport began the game very lively and dominated the ball possession including winning two corners in the first eleven minutes. However, they could not beat a determined River’s United goal keeper Sunday Rotimi. In the 19th minute, Rayon’s attacking midfielder tested goalie Rotimi with a powerful long range, however the very brilliant goalie pushed the ball far from the goal post denying the Blues a chance to break the deadlock. Rayon Sport came into the second half looking for an equalizer as they piled more pressure on Rivers United defence, but finding the back of the net eluded them. In the 51st minute, Rivers United’s Guy Kuemian doubled the lead for the hosts after a spectacular finish that goalie Jean Luc ‘Bakame Ndayishimiye had nothing to do other than seeing the ball stop into the net. Nonetheless, Rayon Sport created many chances through striker Moussa Camara and Kwizera, which they failed to execute. Following this loss, Masudi’s side have to win the second leg with a difference of three goals, if they are to progress to the lucrative group stages. The second leg is slated for April 22 at Amahoro national stadium. editorial@newtimes.co.rw