Rwanda triumphed over South Sudan 2-1 in the second leg of CHAN 2024 Qualifiers on December 28. However, due to Sudan’s aggregate victory against Ethiopia, Rwanda failed to secure a spot in the CHAN finals. The team’s coach, Jimmy Mulisa, made several changes and the side struggled with missed opportunities throughout the match.
On December 28, Rwanda secured a 2-1 victory against South Sudan in the second leg of the CHAN 2024 Qualifying round at Amahoro Stadium. Despite this win, Rwanda failed to qualify for the finals as Sudan’s success against Ethiopia over two legs claimed the remaining CECAFA spot. Coach Jimmy Mulisa enacted three lineup changes from the prior match, revitalizing a squad that initially lost 3-2 in Juba.
The match commenced with Rwanda dominating possession and attacking South Sudan’s defense. Early opportunities were created, yet Rwanda’s first goal arrived in the 37th minute through Didier Mugisha after a series of striking chances. Although the Rwandan side appeared in control, a missed penalty by team captain Kevin Muhire in the first half kept the scoreline precarious at 1-0.
In the second half, the dynamics remained consistent, with Muhire scoring a close-range goal at minute 56 to extend Rwanda’s lead to 2-0. South Sudan, adopting a defensive posture, struggled to mount an offense, yet they were able to pull one back in the 81st minute through a well-executed counterattack by David Sebit. Ultimately, despite numerous opportunities, Rwanda could not find a third goal as the match concluded 2-1.
The African Nations Championship, commonly referred to as CHAN, is an important tournament that showcases national teams consisting of players who compete in their home country’s leagues. Rwanda’s participation in the 2024 CHAN qualifiers has been significant, but the recent defeat against Sudan in previous matches ultimately determined their qualification prospects. The ability to secure a spot in the tournament is vital for national pride and player development, making the results of qualifying rounds closely scrutinized. Rwanda’s loss in the initial leg in Juba proved to be a decisive setback, necessitating a strong performance in the return leg against South Sudan to keep hopes of advancement alive.
In summary, while Rwanda displayed commendable skill and determination in their match against South Sudan, their defeat in the earlier leg against Sudan proved too great an obstacle to overcome for qualification to the CHAN 2024 finals. Despite the victory, the circumstances of Sudan’s performance against Ethiopia meant that Rwanda’s efforts were in vain. The team’s journey in the qualifiers serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in international football and the need for consistent performances across matches.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
