Rayon Sports claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Marine FC on Sunday at Stade Umuganda in the sixth round of the 2025/2026 Rwanda Premier League.
Marine FC started the brighter of the two sides, dominating possession and probing through players such as Sultan Bobo and Ishimwe Kevin, but goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzira was alert to keep the hosts at bay.
In the 12th minute, Marine coach Yves Rwasamanzi made a tactical switch, replacing the injured Niyonkuru Hashim with Usabimana Olivier.
Rayon struggled to find a way through early on, with attackers like Aziz Bassane unable to breach the Marine defense. The first half ended goalless, despite a close call for Marine FC in the 35th minute when Mbonyumwami Taiba’s strike was expertly saved by Ndzira.
The second half saw both sides make further substitutions. Marine FC brought on Nizeyimana Mubaraka and Ndikumana Fabio for Ishimwe Kevin and Sibomana Sultan Bobo, while Rayon introduced Ishimwe Fiston and Tony Kitoga for Harerimana Abdelaziz and Niyonzima Olivier ‘Seif’.
Rayon gradually grew into the game, applying increasing pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 81st minute when Aziz Bassane finally found the breakthrough, converting a well-timed pass from Tambwe Gloire to secure the winning goal.
The full-time whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory for Rayon Sports, who remain second in the league, three points behind leaders Police FC. Elsewhere on match day six, Gicumbi FC and Etincelles played out a 1-1 draw. Police FC retained the top position with 16 points.
