As newcomers to the Rwanda Premier League in the 2023-24 season, Vision FC and Rutsiro FC have embarked on very different journeys. While Vision FC struggles to avoid relegation, Rutsiro FC has surprised fans with an impressive start.
Vision FC has faced a challenging debut season in the top division. Despite early optimism under coach Calum Shaun Selby, the team parted ways with him shortly after the season began. The reins were handed to Mbarushimana Abdou, who has had to navigate numerous hurdles.
By the end of the first 15 matches,
Vision FC sits in 14th place with 12
points, dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their campaign has
been marked by inconsistency.
15 Matches of Vision FC in Rwanda
Premier League
Wins: Marines FC (4-0), Bugesera FC (2-1), Musanze FC (3-0).
Draws: Muhazi United (1-1), Police FC (0-0), Etincelles FC (1-1).
Losses: Gorilla (1-0), Rutsiro (1-0), Mukura (2-1), AS Kigali
(2-1), Amagaju (3-1), APR FC (2-1), Rayon Sports (3-0), Gasogi United (3-0),
Kiyovu (3-2).
Speaking to InyaRwanda,
Vision FC’s spokesperson, nicknamed Super Manager, highlighted the difficulties
faced by the team.
“The challenges began with the team
adjusting to the top division. Moving to a new level is never easy, and the
players needed time to settle.” Super Manager said
A lack of cohesion and experience
has also hampered their performance: “It took time for players to gel because
most of them were new and some were foreigners. Additionally, most players had
never competed in the Premier League before.” Supper Manager Aded
Despite their struggles, the team
remains optimistic about the second half of the season, planning to recruit
experienced players to boost their chances of survival.
Rutsiro FC Shines Bright
In stark contrast, Rutsiro FC has
had a stellar first half of the season. Finishing in 6th place with 21 points, the team has shown that they belong in
the top division.
Rutsiro FC’s strong performances
include wins against Vision FC (1-0), Bugesera FC (3-2), and Mukura Victory
Sports (3-0). They have also held their own against top teams, securing draws
with APR FC and AS Kigali.
15 Marches of Rutsiro and Results
Wins: Vision FC (1-0), Bugesera (3-2), Mukura (3-0), Amagaju (2-1),
Gorilla (2-1).
Draws: APR FC (0-0), AS Kigali (0-0), Etincelles (0-0), Kiyovu
(0-0), Marines (1-1), Musanze (0-0).
Lossers: Rayon Sports (1-0), Muhazi United (1-0), Gasogi United
(1-0), Police FC (3-2).
Club president Nsanzineza Erneste
credited their success to careful planning and teamwork. “Finishing the first
half in sixth place is a great achievement for us. This success comes from our
early preparations, including pre-season friendly matches, and the commitment
of our players and management.” Nsanzineza Said
He also emphasized the team’s
strategy of regular evaluations and adjustments. “After every three matches, we hold meetings
to assess our performance, celebrate our successes, and correct mistakes. This
approach has helped us stay on track.”
Looking ahead, Rutsiro FC aims to
strengthen its squad for the second half of the season. Erneste revealed plans
to sign three players, including two from the Democratic Republic of Congo, to
maintain their momentum:
“Expect an even stronger Rutsiro in
the second half. We are focused on achieving our goals and making our fans
proud.”
Rutsiro FC
has set a goal to finish the league among the top five teams.
Vision FC
aims to return for the second half of the season by correcting the mistakes
made during the first round of matches.