Rwanda's quest for a first win under coach Carlos Alos continued on Thursday, November 17, but the hosts were held to a 0-0 draw by Sudan at the Kigali Stadium in a friendly game. The Rwandans started the game on a bright note as they controlled the midfield. The Amavubi skipper of the day, Djihad Bizimana, was impressive together with midfield partners Kevin Muhire and Ali Niyonzima. They dictated the pace of the game with sheer brilliance. The first clear chance of the game fell to Muhadjiri Hakizimana in the 16th minute. He received a superb 40-yard cross field pass from Bizimana before firing a looping effort which was beautifully saved by Mustapha Mohammed. Rwanda continued to threaten the vital area of the Sudanese. But they still could not find the net as Selladhine and others held firmly at the back. The first half ended 0-0 though Rwanda looked the better side. Sudan came into the second half rejuvenated. They looked more purposeful and were able to push more men in attack. The visitors could have gotten a penalty in the 72nd minute after Thierry Manzi carelessly brought down Mohammed Salim. The Rwandan defender was lucky as the referee waved play on. The introduction of Hakim Sahabo and Muhozi Fred seemed to have brought a bit of urgency in the Amavubi play. Both players were able to exploit spaces in the Sudanese half. The Amavubi players decided to hold on to the ball in the final 10 minutes in an effort to let the Sudanese move out of their shells. There were no clear cut chances in the five minutes of extra time as the referee blew his whistle for the end of the game. The two teams meet again at the same venue on Sunday, November 20, in another friendly encounter.
