South Sudan will host Rwanda at Juba International Stadium on December 22 for a crucial CHAN qualifier. After both teams triumphed in the first qualifier round, several key player matchups will be critical in determining the outcome, including Malish vs. Niyomugabo and Paulino vs. Niyigena. The match promises to be an exciting battle of skill and strategy, influencing the teams’ chances of qualifying for the tournament.
The Bright Stars of South Sudan will face the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Juba International Stadium on December 22 in a crucial first leg match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. Both teams performed well in the previous round, with South Sudan achieving a 3-1 victory over Kenya and Rwanda eliminating Djibouti by the same scoreline. This encounter promises thrilling competition, highlighted by five intriguing key player matchups.
Firstly, Ezibon Malish, a promising young talent from Jamus FC Juba, will be measured against Rwanda’s Claude Niyomugabo, a seasoned left-back. Malish, who excelled in the first leg against Kenya, will seek to overcome Niyomugabo, who has shown remarkable defensive skills throughout the qualifiers. This matchup will be pivotal as these two athletes compete for dominance on the flank.
Another significant duel involves Johanna Paulino, who recently demonstrated his scoring capability against Uganda, taking on Clement Niyigena, a central defender who has made a strong impression in the Rwanda Premier League. Paulino’s combination of speed and strength will test Niyigena’s well-rounded defensive prowess, making this face-off critical for both teams.
Arsene Tuyisenge, evolving into a forward, will go up against veteran player Atir Thomas, who at 37 years of age, brings invaluable experience to South Sudan’s backline. Tuyisenge’s speed and adaptive play style may prove challenging for the seasoned Thomas. This battle of youth versus experience could provide pivotal moments in the game.
In midfield, the contest between Kevin Muhire, the captain of Rwanda, and South Sudan’s Peter Chol promises to be electrifying. Chol, known for his box-to-box capabilities, will be tasked with neutralizing Muhire’s leadership and playmaking abilities. Both players are integral to their teams and their performance could greatly influence the match outcome.
Lastly, the clash between Tito Luckiir and Gilbert Byiringiro on the left flank adds another layer of excitement. Luckiir, a young forward known for his agility and pace, must confront Byiringiro, who excels in a defensive man-marking role. This duel will significantly impact the attacking and defensive dynamics of both teams throughout the match.
The upcoming match between South Sudan and Rwanda is crucial in the context of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, having successfully advanced past the first round of qualifiers against their respective opponents. South Sudan’s Bright Stars are aiming to secure their spot for the upcoming championship, demonstrating a blend of young talent and experienced players, while Rwanda’s Amavubi seeks to continue their strong showing in the competition. The match is highly anticipated due to key player matchups that promise to be thrilling and decisive in determining the victor.
The encounter between South Sudan and Rwanda is set to showcase not only the evolving footballing talent in both nations but also the intense rivalries among key players vying for supremacy on the pitch. With players like Malish, Niyigena, Paulino, Tuyisenge, Muhire, Chol, Luckiir, and Byiringiro involved, fans are guaranteed an exhilarating display of skill and determination which could have significant ramifications for the teams’ hopes of qualifying for the 2024 CHAN.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw