Marine FC surprised Rayon Sports, holding them to a 0-0 draw, as both teams got their 2024/25 season underway on Saturday, August 17 at Kigali Pele Stadium.
The ‘blues’ started the match strong, controlling possession through their solid midfield trio of Olivier Niyonzima, Haruna Majariwa, and Kevin Muhire.Despite their dominance, they struggled to create clear-cut goal scoring chances.
The best opportunity of the first half came in the 22nd minute when Muhire found himself in a one-on-one situation with Marine’s goalkeeper, Vally Irambona.The talented midfielder controlled the ball well, but his finish was thwarted by Irambona’s chest.
Three minutes later, Marine’s Olivier Usabimana made a dangerous run down the left flank, cutting into Rayon’s penalty area before clashing with a Rayon defender. Marine’s players protested for a penalty but the referee waved play on.Rayon Sports continued to push for a goal.
In the 37th minute, Muhire set up Junior Elenga, who then passed the ball to Fitina Omborenga to whip in a cross which was cleared for a corner by Marine’s defence.
At the start of the second half, Rayon Sports made a tactical change, substituting striker Charles Baale for Hadji Iragura. The ‘blues’ began the second half with renewed vigour, replicating their midfield dominance from the first half.
- By Times Sport.