Rwanda: Peace Cup – Crisis-Hit Kiyovu Eliminated as Rayon Advance to Quarterfinals

Kiyovu SC threw away their chance of qualifying for the quarterfinals of the Peace Cup when Gorilla scored an away goal during their 3-1 loss to the Green Baggies i in the round of 16 at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Tuesday, January 23.

The Mumena-based side had left their financial crisis behind and joined hands for the battle as they looked to come from their 2-0 first leg loss to Gorilla FC and secure a quarterfinal berth.

However, their head coach Joselin Bipfubusa reportedly refused to appear on the touchline in the second leg until his wages are cleared. Club assistant coach Khalil Sebarera took charge of the match in the Burundian absence…and he almost got the job done.

But an away goal rule cost them as the two sides played out a 3-3 aggregate draw after two legs.

Kiyovu headed into the game without their head coach Jocelyn Bipfubusa who reportedly refused to return to the touchline until his wages are cleared.

It was Kiyovu who looked the superior side right from the onset and their dominance resulted in a superb goal from Sherif Bayo in the 43rd minute.

After halftime, offensive midfielder Fred Muhozi made it 2-0 in the 65th minute with a sublime finish to draw level with Gorilla.

Kiyovu’s qualification hopes were dealt a huge blow after Mustapha Nsengiyumva reduced the deficit in the 78th minute to give Gorilla a glimmer of home.

Bayo completed a brace in the 83rd minute as they went 3-1 up and were left needing one more goal to qualify.

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