Amavubi can shine in Nairobi

After a disappointing campaign in the qualification for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup, a rejuvenated national team, Amavubi Stars, are demonstrating some quality soccer at the on-going Orange Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup in Kenya. Yussuf Ndayishimiye and Amin Mwizerwa scored first half goals as Amavubi beat Eritrea 2-1 at Nyayo Stadium to advance to the quarterfinals of the Orange Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup. The national team, who last won the competition in 1999 are now favourites to top Group B, had initially thought this prospect to be farfetched. The Wasps are also the third team to storm the quarter finals. The decision that has been taken by the Football Federation (Ferwafa) to give chance to the budding talent should be encouraged and supported by all stakeholders. Rwandan football in the last years has not been exactly impressive in developing local talent. However, the tide seems to be changing for the better. A close look at the senior national team that is supposed to be fed by the national junior category teams, reveals players whose pension days are near. Not very many junior players have been coming through, but with the team currently taking part in Cecafa signal a positive future for Rwandan football. Rwandan soccer has struggled to bridge the gap left by a lost generation. With young players now coming through to fill the void, they should be given the chance to shine in the national colours. Developing young talent is on the lips of every football administrator, with thousands of dollars in Fifa grants, it has become a prerequisite to qualify for soccer funding across the globe. Ferwafa in the last few years has not fared very well in this project. This is the time to seize the chance. Ends

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Amavubi can shine in Nairobi