Rayon Sports FC built a three-goal lead and looked to be cruising to victory before Police scored twice to set up a nervy finish in the first leg of the 2023 Peace Cup quarterfinals.
On Wednesday, April 26, Francis Haringingo’s team had a three-goal lead after 30 minutes thanks to goals from Eric Ngendahimana, Musa Esenu, and Essomba Willy Onana. However, Didier Mugisha’s quick-fire goals had Gikundiro supporters at the Muhanga Stadium biting their nails before yelling in celebration at the final whistle.
Eric Ngendahimana, a midfielder scored a header from a set piece to give Rayons a ninth-minute lead before Ugandan striker Musa Esenu doubled the lead six minutes later to give the Blues a commanding lead.
Vincent Mashami was forced to act momentarily. He swiftly replaced the veteran Jean Baptiste Mugiraneza and introduced a youthful Hesbon Rutonesha.
Essomba Leandre Willy Onana scored a wonderful solo goal with a run from the midfield line in the 30th minute to complete a flawless finish for Rayon Sports and make it 3-0 in this Peace Cup quarterfinal match.
Police FC pulled a goal back in the 45th minute through Didier Mugisha with a stunning right-footed effort.
18 minutes after the interval, Didier Mugisha scored from the penalty spot after being shoved in the penalty area to give Rayon Sports a late scare as the cops overpowered them.
Rayon Sports faced a significant threat after going up 3-0. However, they won 3-2. The second leg is set on May 3rd, 2023 And the winner will square off against Mukura VS in the semifinal match.
Earlier at the same venue, SC Kiyovu beat Rwamagana City 3-0 (5-3 on aggregate) to set up an other Peace Cup semi-final clash with APR FC.
