Finally, Etoile de l’est is back in Rwanda’s top-flight league

Finally, Etoile de l’est is back in Rwanda’s top-flight league
Etoile de l'Est will play in top flight league for the first time since 1998 | Courtesy Photo

Etoile de l’est has been promoted to Rwanda Premier League after 23 years of exile from the top flight. They beat Amagaju on penalties to reach this long awaited achievement.

Etoile de l’est’s win on penalties over Amagaju FC ended a run of knocking the doors of top tier league including last season’s against Gorilla FC.

It was the most anticipated game of Rwanda Division 2 between two historic clubs in Rwandan Football since both sides shared the spoils as they drew 1-1 at Huye Stadium in first leg.

Today, October 12th, at Ngoma stadium, history has been made and the Eastern Province’s pride got a promotion to Premier League after victory on penalties against Nyamagabe based club.

It was level at the break before Pierre Bugingo finally broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half. However, Etoile de l’est’s joy didn’t last long as Amagaju FC, through Bashir Kabagema cancelled the lead 5 minutes later. After it ended 1-1 in regular time, Amagaju FC was edged out 6-5 in the shootout.

Elsewhere in another semi-final game, Gicumbi FC is back in the Premier League after a one-year absence. Gicumbi was promoted following a 2-1 triumph over Heroes FC in the 2nd leg.

Shadad Nsengayire and goal poacher, Bertin Dusenge scored for Gicumbi while Constantin Cyubahiro netted for the visitors.

The final whistle sparked jubilation for the Gicumbi people who are now part of the elite next season after being relegated last season for what they considered as injustice.

Gicumbi FC will lock horns with Etoile de l’est in the Second Division League Final on Friday, December 15, 2021.