APR FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Mukura VS on Sunday at Kigali Pelé Stadium, moving up to fourth place in the Rwandan Premier League standings after two matches played.
The match started energetically on both sides, though APR dominated possession in the midfield, while Mukura relied heavily on wing play to create chances.
In the 19th minute, Ugandan forward Ronald Ssekiganda broke the deadlock after receiving a precise pass from Denis Omedi. The goal followed a misjudgment by Mukura’s goalkeeper Nicholas Sebwato, who failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing Ssekiganda to capitalize.
Sensing the goalkeeper’s vulnerability, APR began attempting long-range shots to exploit gaps in Mukura’s defense, which featured Tresor Kwizera, Abdul Jalilu, and Abdoul Ishimwe, making breakthroughs challenging.
Mukura tried to respond by controlling the midfield through Joseph Sackey, supporting Patrick Mutsinzi in attack. Despite some promising moves, they struggled to find a clear path to APR’s goal.
The first half ended with APR leading 1-0. In the second half, Mukura coach Pierre Canisius Nshimiyimana made a tactical change, substituting Mutsinzi for Exauce Malanda Destin, while APR coach Abderrahim Talib replaced Raouf Memel Dao with Pacifique Ngabonziza to refresh his side.
In the 85th minute, Hakim Kiwanuka delivered a threatening ball to Denis Omedi, but Mukura’s Sebwato managed to stop it with his hands. Mukura did have a goal from Mensah Boateng, but it was ruled offside by the assistant referee.
No further goals were scored, and APR FC claimed all three points. The win brings them to fourth place with six points from two matches.
APR FC will return to action next Saturday, October 25, against Kiyovu Sports, while Mukura VS will host AS Kigali on the same day.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA